Pithori Amavasi is observed on the Shravan month Amavas (No moon) day in the month of Bhadrapad (August – September) as per North Indian calendar. The corresponding month in other regions is the Shravan month. Goddess Durga is worshipped on Pitori Amavasya. In 2012, the date of Pithori Amavasi is August 17.
The corresponding month in other regions is the Shravan month. Goddess Durga is worshipped on Pitori Amavasya . As per Marati Calendar, Pithori Amavasya, also celebrated as Pola, falls on Amavasya in the Sravan month.
Pithori Amavasya is an observance performed by married woman for their children health and prosperity. ‘Pith means flour by which the name comes into existence. On Pitori Amavas, married women, especially mothers, worship 64 Goddesses for their children long life. In the past, idols of these 64 Goddesses were made of ‘Pith and some special recipes were offered to the Goddesses. Saptamatrukas and Ashtamatrukas are also worshipped on Pitori Amavas.
Legend has it that the importance Pithori Amavasi Vrat was narrated to the wife of Lord Indra by Goddess Parvati. It is believed that performing this Vrata will help in attaining healthy and brave sons.
Married women observe Pithori Amavasi for the good health and well being of their children. In some regions, Goddess Durga, 64 Yoginis andSaptamatrikas are worshipped on the day.
Pitha means flour and women make idols of Goddess Durga using the flour. Some communities make 64 small shapes using flour representing the deities.
Pithori Amavasya Rituls
Pithori Amavasya is observed by married women. “Pith” means flour from which life and name comes into existence. On this day, women who have children worship 64 Goddess and pray for long life of their children. The idols of 64 Goddess are made of Pith, the flour. In some regions, Goddes Durga is worshipped as Yogini. Each Pith represents one Yogini. So there are 64 yoginis.
Another important feature is worship of Saptamatrikas. Saptamatrikas are the 7 divine mothers who are seen associated with Shiva and Shakti. Names of 7 devis are: Brahmani, Vaishnavi, Maheshwari, Kaumari, Varahi, Indrani and Chamundi. There are several legends associated with each of them, which are found in the Kurma Purana, Varaha Purana and the Mahabharata. When Yogeshwari, a divine Shakti created by Lord Shiva, is mentioned then the count is eight.
On the day of pithori amavasya 64 Yoginis and Saptamatrikas are worshipped. Married women form a gathering and take part in celebrations. They prepare special recipes and offer to the Goddess. They exchange gifts with each other. They bless their children for their future.
