Neel Shasthi Ritual in Hinduism

Married women perform the very famous Hindu ritual “Neel Shasthi.” “Neel Shasthi” and “Charak Puja” are two Hindu rituals that occur just before the Bengali New Year begins.

‘NeelShasthi’ is the day in the Bengali month of Chaitra when Bengalis celebrate the marriage of Lord Shiva with Devi Parvati by offering puja to the Lord. Married women perform this puja to seek the Lord’s blessings for their husbands and children. Certain beliefs derive the word “Neel” from “Neelkantha,” which indicates Lord Shiva, a person with a blue-colored throat.

As per Ramapada Acharjee, on the hot day of Chaitra the women fast through out the day & finally in the evening they visit the nearby temple of the Lord Shiva & pour milk over the ‘ Shiva lingam‘ & offer bel leaves & flowers. People light incense sticks and the ‘pradeep’ or holy lamp, and offer fruits and sweets. Then, they return home and break their fast by eating the ‘prasad’ (the fruits offered to and later blessed by the god).

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Ramapada Acharjee

Ramapada Acharjee is an experienced Indian spiritual consultant specialising in Vedic astrology, palmistry, traditional Tantra, Vastu Shastra, and spiritual guidance.His journey in astrology and spiritual consultation began in 1991 on a part-time basis. He entered full-time professional practice in 1996, building upon years of traditional learning and practical experience.His spiritual heritage is rooted in the teachings of his father, Kamakhya Charan Acharjee, and the knowledge passed down through generations.With more than three decades of experience, Ramapada Acharjee provides ethical and personalised guidance on marriage, relationships, career, education, family concerns, and spiritual well-being.Based in Kolkata, India, he offers consultations to clients across India and internationally, combining traditional knowledge with a responsible and practical approach.