Margashira - November to December
Margashir Shuddha Shasti
This festival celebrates the marriage of Lord Kumaraswamy with Lady Devasena. The story goes that after Lord Kartikeya (Lord Kumaraswamy) and his army defeated the evil demons Taraka and Surapadman among other, he was met by Lord Indra and the other Gods upon his return, and was requested by Lord Indra to marry his daughter, Lady Devasena. He readily agreed, and the two got married on the banks of the Kumaradhara. Lord Vasuki, King of the Nagas, who had been making a penance there, requested Lord Kartikeya to stay with him permanently, and Lord Kartikeya obliged. To this day, people believe that Lord Kartikeya has his spiritual presence there, alongside Lady Devasena and Lord Vasuki. Another belief is that the day is auspicious for puja to the Cobras, which grant good benefits for the progeny. Customarily, ash gourd, Ambat and sweet khichdi are prepared as Prasadam on the day.
Datta Jayati
This festival marks the appearance day of Lord Dattatreya, who is believed to be the manifestation of the Trimurthy, or the holy trinity of the Hindu Gods. Lord Dattatreya is shown to have 3 heads and 6 months, as he is the manifestation of Lord Brahma, the Creator, Lord Vishnu, the Protector, and Lord Shiva, the destroyer. He is a revered figure across India, and represents the complete circle of life. Devotees offer prayers to him on the sacred day, and usually observe fast while chanting devotional songs in his honor. It is believed that by appeasing the God, it will bring peace, remove obstacles, and give the devotees wisdom, focus and knowledge.