Important Days And Dates In February 2023

February is the second month according to the Julian and Gregorian calendars, which has 28 days in common years and 29 days in leap years, with the 29th being called a leap day.

Derived from the Latin word Februa which means "to cleanse", February is the sole month in the whole year that does not have 30 or 31 days. February is the third and last winter month in the Northern Hemisphere and summer in the Southern Hemisphere.

The month was named after the Roman festival of purification known as Februalia, which is celebrated annually in Rome on the 15th of the month.

February is also known for many holidays and celebrations. Here is the list of festivals celebrated in February; let's have a look:

Guru Ravidas Jayanti- Guru Ravidas Jayanti is celebrated to honour the birth of a famous saint of the Bhakti movement, Guru Ravidas. He was born into a middle-class family in the 14th century and contributed to many social reforms.

The Jayanti holds significant importance for the Ravidassia religion and is observed on Magha Purnima as per the Hindu calendar.

The day is celebrated especially in North India, and a grand celebration is held at Sri Guru Ravidas Janmasthan Temple. On this day, devotees partake in various rituals and celebrate it with great grandeur.

Mahashivratri- Mahashivaratri is one of the important festivals of Hindus, worshipping Lord Shiva. This festival is celebrated in Phalgun month across India, accompanied by various festivities, rituals and prayers. There are various stories behind the celebration of Mahashivratri.

One of them, the legend, says that on this day, the divine union of Shiv and Shakti took place.

On this propitious day, devotees take a holy bath, visit temples, decorate the Shivling, and offer fruits, flowers, sweets, etc., to Lord Shiva. Mahashivratri holds an important significance for the Hindus and is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm.

Phulera Dooj- Phulera Dooj is a significant Hindu festival where Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha are worshipped. This festival is widely celebrated in Uttar Pradesh. The word Phulera means flower, and Duj means the second day.

Phulera Dooj is celebrated in February or March. The story of Phulera Dooj is rooted in Hindu mythology. Temples are decorated on this auspicious occasion, as well as the idols of Radha-Krishna, and prayers and devotion are offered to the deities.

This festival is celebrated enthusiastically by the tradition of playing with flowers, which shows the deep bond of love and affection for each other.