Kalki's Appearance Day

07-29-2003, 06:50 PM

Festivals of Shravana -- Kalkyavatara, Putradaikadashi and Hindola
By Meera S. Sashital
Source: Free Press Journal

Kalkyavatara: The Kalki Avatara falls on Shravan sukla (the light
half) sixth. This anticipatory incarnation is also known as
Nishkalankavatara (Stainless) and is yet to occur and the month and
the day is already foretold. In the Vana Parva of the Mahabharata,
the coming Kalki has been hailed as when unrighteousness will leave
and righteousness will be established. This day, though not
celebrated, is noted for the future emancipation of mankind.

Putradaikadashi: (Son giving eleventh) falls on Shravan sukla (light
half). King Mahijit was sonless due to which all were distressed.
The King consults a learned sage who tells him that in his previous
birth the Kind was a Vasya merchant and had committed some wrong.
The sage advises the King to observe fast on this Shravan sukla
Ekadashi day by which the demerit would be cancelled. The King obeys
and is blessed with a son.

Hindola or Swinging: Sukla eleventh to fifteenth in North India. A
swing is made an is decorated with flowers and hangings. Every night
dieties of Lord Krishna and Radha are placed on it and swung,
rejoining with dancing and singing of special metre the 'hindola'.
The main purpose is to please Krishna to gain his blessings and
merit.

In this month the Shravan Full Moon day is very prominent as a
number of festivals ensemble on this day.