As the winter deepens, people pray for the Sun to come back with its bounty. Imagine a time, when the modern luxuries such as electricity were not present and people had to rely on the cycles of the nature for their needs. The bleak winter months were especially challenging, the day was short, the soil was unyielding, everything that a common person relied on. Hence the Paush month rituals were focussed on keeping alive the hope and the survival instinct in us, denoted in astrology through Sun and Mars respectively. You will also see an emphasis is on the usage of yellow and red colour, such as through the use of copper vessels or usage or kumkuma.
Festivals
Sun Worship
In Hinduism, Sun is worshipped in the month of Paush. During this month, after taking bath early in the morning, offer water to the Sun. Give water from a copper vessel. Put roli and red flowers in the water. After this, chant the mantra of the Sun "Om Adityaya Namah".
Other Observances
This month also marks festivals of harvest such as the Shakambhari Navratri which concludes on Paush Pournima. Other observations include Vaikunth Ekadashi, one of the most religiously observed fasts of the year. Worship Lord Shiva on Monday and offer bel patra.
Food Practices
Excessive eating should be avoided during this month as our metabolism is low. Use dry fruits in food. Use jaggery instead of sugar. Minimise the intake of salt this month. Consuming celery, clove, amla, and ginger is beneficial. Using too much oil and ghee this month is also not beneficial.
Food Practices
Excessive eating should be avoided during this month as our metabolism is low. Use dry fruits in food. Use jaggery instead of sugar. Minimise the intake of salt this month. Consuming celery, clove, amla, and ginger is beneficial. Using too much oil and ghee this month is also not beneficial.
Cleansing Rituals
Bathing in the Triveni Sangam during Paush month is said to be a blessing. Use cold water for baths if possible, and not skipping baths is essential.
Remedies for Paush month
Donate tur dal and rice khichdi with ghee during the month of Paush. New work should not be started in the month of Paush. If you have to do such work under compulsion, then take special care of some things.
Donate tur dal and rice khichdi with ghee during the month of Paush. New work should not be started in the month of Paush. If you have to do such work under compulsion, then take special care of some things.
Wear red clothes this month.
Tie the root or wood of betel leaf in a red thread and wear it around your neck.
Donate a copper vessel.