Kurma Dwadashi 2025: Date, Rituals, Legends & Temple Guide

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Kurma Dwadashi is a spiritually rich observance dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s second avatar—Kurma, the divine tortoise. It falls on the Dwadashi tithi (12th lunar day) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Pausha Month

Date: 31, December 2025

Spiritual Significance

  • Symbolizes balance, stability, and cosmic support, as Kurma held Mount Mandara on his back to enable the churning.
  • Devotees observe fasting, prayers, and Vishnu puja to seek blessings for spiritual growth, protection, and harmony.

Legend: Samudra Manthan

  • Devas and Asuras churned the ocean to obtain Amrita (nectar of immortality).
  • The mountain used as a churning rod began to sink.
  • Lord Vishnu incarnated as Kurma, a giant tortoise, and supported the mountain on his back.
  • This act preserved the cosmic order and allowed divine treasures to emerge.

Rules & Rituals

Kurma Dwadashi is observed with devotion and discipline. Here are the key practices:

Do's

  • Early Morning Snana: Bathe before sunrise, preferably with Gangajal mixed in the water.
  • Clean Attire: Wear fresh, traditional clothes—white or yellow is considered auspicious.
  • Kurma Puja: Worship Lord Vishnu in his Kurma (tortoise) avatar using tulasi, sandalwood, flowers, and akshata.
  • Vishnu Sahasranama or Narayan Stotra chanting is recommended.
  • Fasting: Observe a vrata—either nirjala (without water) or phalahar (fruits and milk).
  • Charity: Donate food, clothes, or money to Brahmins, cows, and the needy for akshaya punya.

Don'ts

  • Avoid tamasik food like garlic, onion, and meat.
  • Refrain from anger, harsh speech, or conflict.
  • Do not skip snana or puja rituals.
  • Avoid laziness or neglecting the vrata guidelines.

Scriptural Reference

Kurma Dwadashi is rooted in the Bhagavata Purana, Padma Purana, and Skanda Purana, which narrate the Samudra Manthan episode:

  • Lord Vishnu incarnated as Kurma, the divine tortoise, to support Mount Mandara during the churning of the ocean.
  • This act enabled the emergence of Amrita, Lakshmi, and other divine treasures.

The day symbolizes cosmic balance, support, and divine intervention in times of turmoil.

 Temple Visit

  • Sri Kurmam Temple, Srikakulam – The only temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s Kurma avatar, with special abhishekams and homams on Kurma Dwadashi.
    • Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Simhachalam – A rare fusion of Varaha and Narasimha avatars, revered for its Chandanotsavam and powerful nijaroopa darshanam.
    • Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam – The largest functioning temple complex in the world, celebrating all Vishnu avatars, especially during Vaikuntha Ekadashi.
    • Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram – Famous for its reclining Vishnu form (Anantha Shayana) and its mystical treasure vaults, steeped in legend and grandeur.

    Regional Observance

    • Andhra Pradesh & Telangana: Celebrated with Kurma Puja, vratas, and temple visits, especially in Srikakulam.
    • Tamil Nadu & Karnataka: Observed as part of Vaishnava traditions, with emphasis on Vishnu Sahasranama and charity.
    • North India: Less prominent, but observed by Vaishnavas with fasting and puja.
    • Odisha & Bengal: Integrated into broader Vishnu worship, often linked with Lakshmi Puja.

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