Diwali 2025 Special: The Importance of ‘Vasu Baras’, as We Approach Diwali
As we approach the joyous celebration of Diwali, the significance of Vasu Baras becomes even more meaningful. This special day serves as a heartfelt reminder to honor and cherish the bond between humans and animals, particularly our beloved cows. It is a time for reflection and gratitude, acknowledging the vital role these gentle creatures play in our lives and in nurturing our agricultural heritage. Vasu Baras is celebrated today, October 17, with rituals taking place during the auspicious Pradoshkala Muhurat.
Celebrating Vasu Baras is more than just honoring a tradition; it’s a heartfelt opportunity to show compassion and respect for all living beings. As we prepare for the joyous festivities of Diwali, let us take a moment to embody the spirit of kindness and gratitude, sharing love and compassion with every creature in our world. Manish Malhotra's Diwali 2025 Bash Oozes With a Mix of Indo-Western Glamour.
Vasu Baras, also known as Govatsa Dwadashi, marks the heartfelt beginning of Diwali celebrations in Maharashtra, Gujarat and various regions of India. This sacred day is dedicated to the worship of cows and calves, symbols of motherhood, selflessness, and nourishment.
Understanding the Worship of Cows and Calves on Govatsa Dwadashi
In Hindu scriptures, the cow is cherished and revered as a mother, providing us with sustenance through milk and other gifts. Worshiping cows on this special day is believed to bring prosperity, good health, and spiritual blessings, deepening our connection to these gentle beings.
Vasu Baras 2025: Rituals
On this beautiful occasion, devotees start the day with purification rituals, creating a sacred space for worship. Cows and calves are lovingly bathed, adorned with flowers, and offered nutritious food such as wheat products, jaggery, and gram. Devotees apply tilak to their own foreheads and to the cows, serving as a mark of deep reverence and love.
An important aspect of this observance is that devotees choose to refrain from consuming wheat and milk products on this day, expressing their gratitude toward the cow and recognizing her invaluable contribution to humanity.
In Maharashtra and Gujarat, Vasu Baras holds particularly special significance, as it marks the first day of Diwali, helping to set a loving and pious tone for the festival of lights.
Govatsa Dwadashi Nandini Vrat: A Meaningful Celebration
Today, while we might refer to it as Veganism, the essence of this beautiful celebration has been cherished since ancient times. Vasu Baras, affectionately called Nandini Vrat, is dedicated to Nandini, the sacred cow revered in our scriptures as the beloved daughter of Kamadhenu. Observing Nandini Vrat is seen as a way to wash away negativity, inviting peace and abundance into our homes.
This day holds special significance for married women, who observe the vrat with heartfelt prayers for the wellness and happiness of their families and children. It’s not just a series of rituals; it’s a profound expression of love and respect for the cow, known as Gaumata, who embodies nurturing and life-giving energy. Aneet Padda Celebrates Festive Season With Beaming Smile at Delightful Launch of Manifest Collection at Mia by Tanishq!.
Let us come together on this day with open hearts, honoring the sacred connection we share with these gentle beings and all forms of life around us. It's a wonderful opportunity to reflect on compassion and gratitude as we celebrate the nurturing spirit that sustains us all.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 17, 2025 11:17 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).