When Is Ayudha Pooja 2024? Check Date & Auspicious Time For 'Vahana Pooja'

Ayudha Puja, celebrated during Maha Navratri, is a significant festival in South India, observed primarily in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala. Traditionally performed on Navami Tithi of Navratri, Ayudha Puja often coincides with Maha Navami. The festival is also referred to as Shastra Puja or Astra Puja, as it historically involved the worship of weapons.

In its modern form, Ayudha Puja extends beyond weapons, with people now worshipping various tools, instruments, and vehicles. Craftsmen and professionals honor their tools on this day, similar to how Vishwakarma Puja is celebrated in other parts of India.

For many, Ayudha Puja has evolved into Vahana Puja, where vehicles-cars, scooters, and motorbikes-are decorated and worshipped.

As part of the Vahana Puja tradition, vehicles are adorned with vermilion, garlands, mango leaves, and banana saplings. A key ritual involves smashing a white pumpkin, decorated with vermilion and turmeric, in front of the vehicle to ward off evil spirits.

When is Ayudha Puja in 2024?

Ayudha Puja in 2024 will be observed on Saturday, October 12. Some states, however, will mark the holiday on Friday, October 11, while others will observe it on October 12, as per Drikpanchanga.

Ayudha Puja Date: Saturday, October 12

Vijaya Muhurat: 02:03 PM to 02:49 PM (Duration: 46 minutes)