The hottest days of summer are called Nautapa. During this time, the effect of strong sunlight and rising temperature is considered to be important not only on humans but also in the service and worship of God. Especially in the houses where Laddu Gopal is present, there is a tradition of doing special service to him during the days of Nautapa.
According to religious beliefs, just like small children of the house are taken care of, similarly special measures are taken to protect Laddu Gopal from the heat. It is believed that service done with true heart pleases Kanha ji and there is happiness, peace and prosperity in the house. Let us know the important rules related to serving Laddu Gopal in Nautapa.
1. Take bath with cold water
During Nautapa, it is considered auspicious to bathe Laddu Gopal not with very cold or very hot water, but with normal or slightly cold water. Mixing rose water, kewda or sandalwood in bathing water also keeps the environment cool. Many devotees also apply sandalwood paste during this time.
2. Wear light and cotton clothes
Laddu Gopal should be avoided in wearing heavy or thick clothes during summer. It is considered auspicious to make them wear cotton and light colored clothes. White, yellow and light blue colors are considered a symbol of peace and coolness in summer.
3. Make up with sandalwood and flowers
Sandalwood is considered to have special importance in Nautapa. It is believed that applying sandalwood provides coolness. Using fresh flowers, Tulsi leaves and sandalwood in the adornment of Laddu Gopal is considered very auspicious. Due to this, the atmosphere of the place of worship also remains positive.
4. Offer cold things
During summer, cool offerings like butter-mishri, fruits, thandai, kheer, curd and panjiri are offered to Laddu Gopal. According to religious beliefs, food with hot taste should be avoided. Many people also include seasonal fruits like mango, melon and watermelon in their offerings during this time.
5. Keep the puja place cool and clean
Where Laddu Gopal is seated, special care should be taken for cleanliness and coolness. Running a fan or cooler near the temple, keeping fragrant flowers and changing curtains from time to time is considered auspicious. Some devotees also keep a small earthen vessel filled with water so that the environment remains cool.
What does religious belief say?
It is believed that the child form of Lord Krishna should be served with love and dedication like a child. Kanha ji is pleased with the special service and devotion done in Nautapa and positive energy, happiness, prosperity and peace remain in the house.
However, all these rules are based on religious faith and traditions, which the devotees adopt according to their beliefs.