In Hinduism, each day of the week is dedicated to a specific deity. While Monday is devoted to Lord Shiva, Tuesday to Lord Hanuman, and Wednesday to Lord Ganesha — Thursday is the sacred day of Lord Vishnu. Worshipping him on this day brings divine blessings, removes obstacles, and fulfills heartfelt wishes. If you're planning to observe a Thursday fast (Guruvar Vrat) for the first time, it's important to follow the right rituals and rules. It is believed that not following these rules may displease Lord Vishnu. Here's what you need to keep in mind:
1. Choose the Right Day to Begin
Start your Thursday fast in the month of Paush or on a Thursday that coincides with Pushya Nakshatra — it's considered highly auspicious. Alternatively, you can begin from the first Thursday of the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon phase). The traditional Thursday fast is observed for 16 consecutive Thursdays.
2. Do Not Eat Bananas
Though yellow is dear to Lord Vishnu, bananas are strictly avoided on this day. It is believed that Lord Vishnu resides in the banana tree. Instead, offer water to the banana tree as a mark of reverence.
3. Donate Yellow-Colored Items
Yellow is symbolic of Lord Vishnu’s grace. After completing your puja, offer yellow items such as jaggery, chana dal, yellow clothes, bananas to Lord Vishnu and then donate these items. Such donations are said to invite prosperity and divine blessings into your life.
4. Avoid Rice and Khichdi
Stay away from rice, especially black lentil khichdi. Instead, consume yellow foods, like suji halwa, besan items, or chana dal. It is believed that eating rice on Thursday may lead to financial setbacks. Also, during worship, offer sesame seeds instead of rice.
5. Feed a Cow with Roti and Jaggery
As per scriptures, feeding a cow is equivalent to serving millions of deities. On Thursdays, offer roti with jaggery to a cow to eliminate sorrows and attract happiness and abundance.
6. Avoid Cutting Hair or Nails
Avoid cutting hair or nails, and women should refrain from washing hair or clothes on Thursdays. It's believed that doing so weakens the effect of Brihaspati (Guru) in one’s horoscope, and may even result in loss of respect and wealth.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is based on beliefs and information only. Always consult a concerned expert.
