Anant Chaturdashi, also known as Anant Vrat, is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to worshipping and fasting in honor of Lord Vishnu.
This festival falls on the twelfth day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Shravan month. In 2023, Anant Chaturdashi will be celebrated on September 29th.
Worshipping the Infinite Avatars of Lord Vishnu
In Northern India, this day holds special importance as it is dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu’s infinite avatars.
Lord Vishnu is revered as the sustainer of creation. Whenever unrighteousness, falsehood, and sin prevail on Earth, Lord Vishnu incarnates to restore order.
In the Treta Yuga, he appeared as Lord Rama, the epitome of righteousness. In the Dwapara Yuga, he manifested as Lord Krishna, the beloved son of Devaki.
Visit Prominent Lord Vishnu Temples
On the occasion of Anant Chaturdashi, you can visit renowned and ancient Lord Vishnu temples across India. Here are a few prominent ones:
Tirupati Balaji Temple, Andhra Pradesh
Tirupati Balaji Temple in Andhra Pradesh is one of India’s most famous Vishnu temples. Located in the city of Tirumala, this temple houses the deity of Lord Venkateswara.
Devotees from far and wide come here for darshan (viewing the deity). It’s advisable to book transportation and accommodation in advance due to the large number of pilgrims.
Jagannath Temple, Puri
In the state of Odisha, the Jagannath Temple in Puri is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped as Lord Jagannath.
Jagannath Dham is one of India’s sacred Char Dham pilgrimage sites. The temple also houses the idols of Lord Krishna’s sister Subhadra and brother Balarama.
Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tamil Nadu
The Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tamil Nadu is one of the most important Vishnu temples in India. It’s also the largest functioning temple in the world.
The temple enshrines the deity Lord Ranganatha. Due to its significance, it attracts a massive number of devotees, so be prepared for crowds if you plan to visit.
Badrinath Temple
The Badrinath Temple in Uttarakhand is part of the Char Dham Yatra and is dedicated to Lord Badrinath, a form of Lord Vishnu.
Helicopter services are available for those who want to visit the temple. The temple is located in the Chamoli district and houses a one-meter-tall Shaligram deity, believed to be self-manifested.
