Govinda Dwadashi popularly known as Narasimha Dwadashi falls on Shukla Paksha Dwadashi Tithi of Phalgun month before Holi. This day is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, the half-human and half-lion avatar of Lord Vishnu. This incarnation is said to be the fourth strongest manifestation of Lord Vishnu. The devotees take a holy bath in any of the sacred rivers and keep a strict vrat to worship Lord Narasimha. 

Significance of Govinda Dwadashi 

According to legends, Lord Vishnu took the Narasimha avatar (incarnation), emerged from a pillar and saved his bhakt Prahalad by killing the demon king Hiranyakashap. That is why this day holds utmost importance for the followers and devotees of Lord Vishnu. People observing the Govinda Dwadashi fast are believed to get liberated from all their past sins. and receive salvation (moksha) thereby going directly to “Vaikuntha”, the abode of Lord Vishnu. Worshipping Lord Vishnu with full devotion can also help the devotees get bestowed with happiness and success in their life. The devotees performing all the rituals successfully on Govinda Dwadashi can seek good fortune. They also get rid of all kinds of obstacles in their life ahead.

Govinda Dwadashi Date and Muhurat

In 2023, Govinda Dwadashi falls on Friday, March 3.

Dwadashi Tithi Begins: March 3, 2023, 9:11 a.m

Dwadashi Tithi Ends: March 4, 2023, 11:43 a.m

Puja Rituals 

• The devotees should wake up before sunrise on the day of Govinda Dwadashi and take a ceremonial bath in any sacred river. The devotees should chant the names of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Ganga while taking the bath.
• It’s said that worshipping the ‘Pundarikaksha’ form of Lord Vishnu on this day is very important. The devotees make offerings to the Lord in the form of flowers, fruits, incense sticks, sandalwood paste, oil lamps, sweets etc.
• Some devotees also keep a vrat on this auspicious day and can eat only after the completion of the puja. People should avoid consuming non-vegetarian food and alcohol on this day.
• Devotees also visit Lord Vishnu temple in the evening to participate in the puja rituals held there. Reciting the ‘Sri Narasimha Kavach’ mantra and chanting the name of Lord Vishnu is considered to be very propitious on Govinda Dwadashi.

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