Dwadshis Puja Vidhi

“Dwadashi” refers to the twelfth day of the lunar fortnight in the Hindu calendar. While every Dwadashi is used for breaking the Ekadashi fast, two specific observances—Ksheerabdi Dwadashi and Govatsa Dwadashi—have unique puja rituals. 

1. Ksheerabdi Dwadashi (Tulsi Puja) 

Observed during the month of Kartika, this day celebrates Lord Vishnu waking from his four-month cosmic sleep and his symbolic marriage to the Tulsi plant. 

• Meaning: “Ksheerabdi” translates to the “Ocean of Milk,” representing the divine abode of Lord Vishnu.
• Puja Vidhi:
  • Preparation: Clean the area around the Tulsi plant and decorate it with rangoli.
  • Placement: Place an Amla (Indian Gooseberry) branch next to the Tulsi plant, symbolizing Lord Vishnu.
  • Deepam: Light ghee lamps (Diyas) around the plant. It is traditional to light at least one lamp with 365 wicks.
  • Offerings: Perform a five-part puja (Panchopacara) by offering flowers, incense, sandalwood paste, and special food like sweetened rice or fruits.
  • Katha: Read or listen to the Ksheerabdi Dwadashi Vrat Katha to invite prosperity and peace. 

2. Govatsa Dwadashi (Vasu Baras)

Celebrated primarily in Maharashtra and Gujarat, this day is dedicated to the worship of cows and their calves. 

• Meaning: “Go” means cow, and “Vatsa” means calf. It signifies gratitude for the nourishment provided by nature.
• Puja Vidhi:
  • Worship: Bathe a cow and its calf (or use clay idols) and apply turmeric and kumkum to their foreheads.
  • Feeding: Offer them sprouted moong (mung beans), gram, and wheat-based items like chapatis.
  • Aarti: Perform aarti with incense and a lamp while circumambulating the cow.
  • Fasting Rule: Devotees typically refrain from consuming milk and wheat products on this day as a mark of respect. 

General Dwadashi Parana (Breaking Fast) 

If you are observing a standard Dwadashi after an Ekadashi fast:

• Timing: The fast must be broken during the Parana window (after sunrise and before the Dwadashi tithi ends).
• Ritual: Bathe early, worship Lord Vishnu with yellow flowers, and offer food to a Brahmin or the needy before eating yourself.