Guga Navami is a popular Hindu festival celebrated in many parts of India, Nepal, and Pakistan.
It is observed on the ninth day (navami) of the Shukla Paksha (the waxing phase of moon) in the month of Ashadh according to the Hindu lunar calendar. It is celebrated to mark the birth anniversary of Lord Guga, a figure from ancient Hindu mythology.
The festival is observed with great enthusiasm and devotion in rural areas and pilgrim sites like Haridwar, Varanasi, Indore, Aurangabad, etc., where people organize grand processions and perform various religious rituals on the day.
What is Guga Navami?
Guga Navami, also known as Goga Navami, is a Hindu festival celebrated in several regions of India, particularly in the northern states near Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and parts of Himachal Pradesh. It falls on the ninth day of the bright fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Bhadrapada, which usually corresponds to August or September on the Gregorian calendar.
This festival is dedicated to worshiping and honoring the folk deity known as Guga or Gugga. It is believed to be a historical figure, a warrior prince, and a snake god who is venerated for his bravery, healing powers, and protection from snakebites and other illnesses.
On Guga Navami, devotees gather at Guga temples and other holy sites associated with the deity. They offer prayers, perform rituals, and participate in various religious and cultural activities. People also take part in processions, sing folk songs, and share stories of Guga’s valor and miracles.
One distinctive feature of Guga Navami celebrations is the offering of offerings called “Gugri.” These are small clay pots filled with sweets and other items and are considered auspicious. Devotees carry these offerings to Guga’s shrines and present them as a symbol of devotion.
Why is Guga Navami Celebrated?
Guga Navami is observed to honor Lord Guga and his sacred descent to earth.
It is believed that Lord Guga descended on Earth to slay demons and rid the world of evil powers. His act of sacrificing himself to save mankind from these demonic forces has been celebrated since ancient times in India.
The festival is also seen as an opportunity for devotees to seek blessings from Lord Guga and his divine power by performing worship and offering prayers.
When is Guga Navami Celebrated?
Guga Navami is celebrated on the ninth day (navami) of the Krishna Paksha in Bhadrapada month according to the Hindu lunar calendar. This usually falls sometime between late August and early September every year. The festival is marked by grand processions, devotion rituals, singing bhajans (devotional songs) and performing arti (a ritual of offering light to God).
- In 2023, this festival will be observed on Friday, 8th of September.
- In 2024, Goga Navami will be celebrated on Tuesday, 27th of August.
Where is Guga Navami Popular?
Guga Navami is celebrated in many parts of India, particularly in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Rajasthan.
It is also popular in Nepal and Pakistan where Hindu devotees observe the festival with great enthusiasm and devotion. The largest celebration of Guga Navami takes place at the Har Ki Pauri ghat in Haridwar, India, where thousands of devotees gather every year to witness the grand procession of Lord Guga.
What is the Guga Navami Date?
- 2023 Friday, 8th of September
- 2024 Tuesday, 27th of August
- 2025 Sunday, 17th of August
- 2026 Saturday, 5th of September
- 2027 Thursday, 26th of August
- 2028 Monday, 14th of August
- 2029 Sunday, 2nd of September2030 Thursday, 22nd of August
One of the important Hindu holidays observed in honor of Gogaji is Goga Navami.
Legend has it that Guga was a strong Rajput ruler with mystical control over poisonous snakes. His stories are told in a variety of variations as part of traditions on this day. Some of the tales talk about his miraculous birth, his marriage, his family, his involvement in battles, his amazing skill in curing snake bites, and his eventual banishment from Earth.
Hindus hold the belief that honoring Him on this day will ward off snakes and other diseases. A common misconception is that Lord Guga shields children from any danger.
Therefore, married ladies perform pujas on Goga Navami and pray to Him for their children’s health and long lives. On this day, some married ladies without children also pray for progeny blessings.
We hope you have a happy and safe Guga Navami celebration filled with joy and fun! This is an excellent time for family bonding, religious devotion and expressing gratitude to Lord Guga for his inspiring message. So make sure to celebrate this occasion by dedicating some time to religion, family and devotion!
Happy Guga Navami to all! May this special festival bring joy and prosperity into your lives.
