Topic: nature-of-the-soul

Sant Eknath Shashthi will be celebrated on Monday, March 9, 2026. It falls on the Phalguna Vadya Shashthi according to the traditional Hindu calendar.

This is an ancient remedial tradition. Curd (ruled by Venus/Moon) cools the stomach and mind, while sugar provides instant glucose. Astrologically, it invokes calmness and focus before a stressful event.

It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi resides in the Bel tree. Offering Kheer (Rice Pudding) and Ghee to a needy person while standing under a Bel tree on Mahashivratri pleases Goddess Lakshmi and ensures lifelong luxury.

In Hindu rituals, the Moon symbolizes the emotional mind. Offering prayers to the Moon after worshipping Lord Ganesha symbolizes the perfect balance of emotions with wisdom (भावनाओं को ज्ञान से संतुलित करना). The fast is considered incomplete without this moonrise ritual.