Akhanda Dwadashi 2025 | Margasira Dwadasi Vratam

Akhanda Dwadashi (Dwadasha Aditya Vratam) is observed on Dwadashi day in the bright half during Margashirsha Month. In 2025, Akhanda Dwadashi date is December 2.

Akhanda Dwadasi vrata is dedicated to worship Lord Krishna. It is observed as three-phases for a year. It is less popular vrata mainly observed by Vaishnava sect of people.

During the first four months (first phase) of the vrata, five pots filled with rice and other food grains are offered to Brahmins. During the second phase of four months, a pot full of dry nuts or dry grams are donated from Chaitra month. In the final phase of four months, ghee is offered to Brahmins.

The first phase of Akhanda Dwadashi vratam – Margasira, Paush, Magh and Phalgun months. The second phase of the vrata – Chaitra, Vaisakh, Jyeshta and Ashada months. The final or the third phase of the vratha – Shravan, Bhadrapad, Ashwin and Karthik months.

 This vrat or fast is observed to invoke blessings for peace, prosperity, and familial harmony.

Significance:

• It honors Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, and is believed to remove obstacles and bring auspiciousness to devotees’ lives.

• The day emphasizes purity of conduct, righteous behavior, and devotion.

• Performing Akhanda Dwadashi vrat is said to bring wealth, abundance of grains, happiness, and destroy past sins.

• It is also considered beneficial for the well-being of the entire family and is widely observed in various Hindu communities.

Rituals:

• The vrat involves fasting and consuming food prepared from cow’s milk, with curd often part of the offering and consumption.

• Devotees perform puja with special mantras such as “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya,” and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu.

• Acts of charity, including feeding Brahmins or the needy, and performing pitru tarpana (offerings to ancestors) are prescribed.

• Maintaining a pure and disciplined lifestyle with emphasis on self-control and ethical conduct is advised on this day.

Akhanda Dwadashi may also be celebrated in other months on the 12th day of Shukla Paksha depending on regional customs, but its observance during Margashirsha month is especially noted for bringing auspiciousness and blessings for prosperity.