Shri Dharmasthala, nestled in the serene Western Ghats of Karnataka, is not just a temple; it is a spiritual and cultural hub revered by millions. The temple, dedicated to Lord Manjunatha (an incarnation of Lord Shiva), attracts devotees from across the globe. In addition to its daily rituals, the temple celebrates various festivals and special poojas, making it a year-round attraction for spiritual seekers. Here’s a comprehensive list of the key festivals and special poojas scheduled in Shri Dharmasthala in 2025:
Top Festivals and Special Poojas Celebrated in Shri Dharmasthala in 2025
1. Makar Sankranti (January 15, 2025)
This harvest festival, Makara Sankranti, marks the transition of the Sun into Capricorn. Special poojas and offerings are performed to seek blessings for prosperity. Devotees also participate in charity and Annadanam (free food distribution) organized by the temple. The festival signifies the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.
2. Maha Shivaratri (February 28, 2025)
One of the most significant festivals in Dharmasthala, Maha Shivaratri, is dedicated to Lord Manjunatha. Devotees observe fasting and perform night-long prayers. The temple witnesses elaborate poojas and an overwhelming influx of devotees.
3. Ugadi (April 1, 2025)
The Kannada New Year, Ugadi, is celebrated with grandeur. Special abhishekas (ritualistic bathing of the deity) and poojas are conducted to seek blessings for the new year. The temple premises are adorned with traditional decorations, creating a festive atmosphere.
4. Chaitra Masa Navaratri (April 1–10, 2025)
This nine-day festival celebrates the divine feminine energy. The temple performs daily poojas, homas (sacred fire rituals), and unique cultural programs to honour Goddess Durga.
5. Brahmotsava Festival (May 2025)
Brahmotsava is one of the most important festivals in Dharmasthala. It is celebrated with great pomp and includes Rathotsava (chariot festival), where the deity is taken in a grand procession on a beautifully decorated chariot. Devotional music, cultural performances, and charitable activities are integral to this festival.
6. Naga Panchami (August 2, 2025)
This day is dedicated to the worship of Nagas (serpent deities). Special rituals are performed at the Naga Mandala, and devotees offer milk and flowers to serpent idols to seek protection from negative energies.
7. Ganesh Chaturthi (August 29, 2025)
On Ganesh Chaturthi, Lord Ganesha is worshipped with devotion. The temple organizes special poojas and offerings to invoke the blessings of removing obstacles.
8. Navaratri and Vijayadashami (September 30–October 8, 2025)
The temple celebrates Navaratri with nine days of rituals, cultural performances, and devotional activities. On Vijayadashami, a grand procession marks the victory of good over evil.
9. Laksha Deepotsava (November–December 2025)
The Laksha Deepotsava, or the Festival of Lights, is the most iconic celebration in Dharmasthala. The temple is illuminated with a lakh (100,000) oil lamps, creating a mesmerizing sight. This festival includes cultural events, Bhajana Mandali (devotional singing), and special poojas.
10. Kartika Masa Special Poojas (November–December 2025)
During the holy month of Kartika, special abhishekas and poojas are performed every Monday to honour Lord Shiva. Devotees light lamps and participate in rituals, creating an atmosphere of divinity and devot
11. Tulasi Puja (December 2025)
Tulasi Puja, dedicated to the sacred Tulasi plant, is observed with rituals and prayers, symbolizing devotion and spiritual purity.
Other Regular Events:
- Annadanam (Free Food Service): A daily ritual at Dharmasthala, ensuring no devotee leaves the temple hungry.
- Special Abhisheka on Mondays: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this weekly ritual draws devotees from near and far.
- Monthly Pournami Pooja: A full moon special pooja is performed every month and is dedicated to divine blessings and prosperity.
Conclusion:
Shri Dharmasthala stands as a beacon of spirituality, charity, and tradition. Each festival celebrated here embodies the essence of devotion and unity. If you plan to visit Dharmasthala in 2025, align your visit with these vibrant Festivals and Special Poojas and experience the divine energy that resonates in this sacred land.
Pro Tip: Plan your trip during the Laksha Deepotsava for a truly mesmerizing experience!
Daily Poojas at Shri Dharmasthala
Daily Pooja Timings
- Nirmalaya Darshana Pooja: 5:15 AM
- Early morning, Abhisheka and offering of flowers from the previous day.
- Benefit: Offers clarity and spiritual awakening to devotees.
- Usha Kala Pooja: 6:00 AM
- Morning rituals with sacred hymns and offerings.
- Benefit: Invokes blessings for a prosperous day.
- Madhyana Pooja (Midday): 12:00 PM
- Special prayers and abhisheka during the mid-afternoon.
- Benefit: Encourages mental peace and solutions to challenges.
- Pradosha Pooja: 7:00 PM
- Evening rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva during twilight.
- Benefit: Removes negative energies and promotes overall well-being.
- Ratharohana (Chariot Procession): 8:00 PM (special days only)
- The deity is taken around the temple in a decorated chariot.
- Benefit: A symbolic act to seek divine guidance in life’s journey.
Anna Prasada Timing
Shri Dharmasthala is famous for its Annadanam (free food service), which feeds thousands of devotees daily.
- Breakfast: 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM
- Lunch: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM
- Dinner: 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Benefits of Annadanam:
- Participating in or contributing to Annadanam is considered one of the highest acts of charity in Hinduism.
- Devotees experience divine satisfaction and community harmony.
Festivals and Special Poojas and Their Benefits
- Rudrabhisheka
- Timing: As per pre-booking (usually during the morning poojas).
- Benefit: Resolves health issues, enhances peace, and removes doshas (spiritual afflictions).
- Maha Mangala Arathi
- Timing: Performed during the main morning and evening poojas.
- Benefit: Brings spiritual harmony and overall prosperity.
- Sarpa Samskara Pooja
- Timing: Performed early in the morning. Pre-registration is mandatory.
- Benefit: Removes the ill effects of Naga Dosha (ancestral curses) and ensures family welfare.
- Laksha Deepotsava Pooja
- Timing: During the Laksha Deepotsava festival (November–December 2025).
- Benefit: Purifies the mind and brings light to one’s life journey.
- Tulasi Puja
- Timing: Evening hours during the month of Kartika.
- Benefit: Enhances spiritual growth and devotion.
- Naga Pooja
- Timing: Every Monday during Kartika Masa (November–December).
- Benefit: Protection from serpent-related doshas and blessings for health and fertility.
Benefits of Visiting Dharmasthala
- Spiritual Fulfillment: The serene ambiance and rituals elevate one’s spiritual journey.
- Mental Peace: The temple rituals and serene surroundings provide immense clarity and peace.
- Charity (Dana Dharma): Dharmasthala exemplifies the value of giving back through acts of Annadanam and charity.
- Cultural Experience: Festivals and rituals glimpse Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage.
- Blessings for Prosperity: Lord Manjunatha’s blessings are believed to bring success, health, and happiness.
Conclusion:
Shri Dharmasthala is not just a temple but a spiritual experience that combines devotion, tradition, and service. Whether you visit for the daily poojas or during one of its grand Festivals and Special Poojas in 2025, you will surely leave with a sense of divine grace and fulfilment. Plan your visit to align with these rituals and embrace the sacred energy of Dharmasthala.