Vagh Baras 2025: Date, Significance, and Rituals to Begin Diwali Festivities

Vagh Baras 2025: Vagh Baras, also known as Govatsa Dwadashi, signals the beginning of Diwali celebrations in many parts of India. In 2025, the festival will be observed on October 17 (Friday). It holds immense cultural and religious value, symbolizing gratitude, prosperity, and a fresh start to the new year’s financial and spiritual journey.

Also Read: Diwali 2025: Date, 5 Days, and Meaning of the Festival of Lights

Meaning and Origin

The name Vagh Baras comes from two Gujarati words — “Vagh” meaning repayment, and “Baras” meaning the twelfth day. Celebrated on the twelfth day (Dwadashi) of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashwin, it encourages people, especially traders, to repay debts and avoid any new financial dealings on this day. The ritual represents starting anew without burdens before Diwali.

Rituals and Traditions

In rural India, worship of cows forms a major part of the Vagh Baras celebrations. Farmers bathe and decorate their cattle, offer prayers, and feed them fresh fodder as a sign of respect and gratitude. Women observe fasts and household rituals praying for family prosperity and peace. This devotion reflects the deep connection between humans and nature in Indian culture.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

Beyond rituals, Vagh Baras teaches financial discipline and spiritual balance. It inspires people to value honesty in trade, fulfill promises, and appreciate life’s blessings. The festival emphasizes cleansing the mind and heart before the Diwali celebrations begin, symbolizing light over darkness and purity over negativity.

A Prelude to Diwali

As people prepare for Diwali 2025, Vagh Baras sets the perfect tone for the festive week ahead. It marks the beginning of joy, gratitude, and new beginnings, reminding everyone to step into the festival of lights with a heart full of positivity and a mind free of worries.

Also Read: Dhanteras 2025: Special yoga in Pushya Nakshatra before Dhanteras and Diwali.