Every year, on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Ashadh month, women observe a special fast known as the Kokila Vrat. While the name of this fast is based on the cuckoo bird (Kokila), its religious significance is deeply connected to Goddess Sati and Lord Shiva. This festival holds a special place among married women (Suhagins).
This time, the Kokila Vrat will be observed on July 10, 2025, and there is a lot of enthusiasm among the devotees regarding it.
When will Kokila Vrat be observed?
Kokila Vrat in 2025 will be observed on July 10, on the day of Ashadh Purnima. On this day, women worship Goddess Sati and Lord Shiva with full rituals.
- Purnima Tithi Begins: July 10, at 1:26 AM
- Purnima Tithi Ends: July 11, at 2:06 AM
- Pradosh Puja Muhurat: From 7:22 PM to 9:24 PM
Women observing this fast remain on a fast throughout the day and complete the fast by performing the puja at night.
Religious Basis of the Vrat
The Kokila Vrat is mentioned in the Bhavishyottara Purana. According to it, Goddess Sati performed severe penance to have Lord Shiva as her husband, and during this time, she adopted the form of a cuckoo and observed this special fast.
This is the reason why the cuckoo is considered a symbol of Goddess Sati in this fast and is worshipped. This fast is mainly observed for the long life of the husband, marital happiness, progeny, and unbroken good fortune.
Where is this festival particularly celebrated?
The tradition of this fast is deeply rooted in many states of North India. It is celebrated with great fanfare, especially in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.
The women here observe this fast with all the rituals, and it is believed that this fast protects from the sorrows of widowhood.
What is the Puja Vidhi (worship method) of Kokila Vrat?
The process of performing the puja in Kokila Vrat is very unique. Along with traditional items, a clay idol of a cuckoo is made and worshipped.
- Women bathe with herbs and consume only fruits for the day.
- A clay cuckoo is made at home and decorated with flowers, bangles, vermilion (sindur), and red clothes.
- Bel leaves, datura, aak, blue flowers, milk, yogurt, honey, and sacred water are offered to Lord Shiva.
- After the puja, the cuckoo idol is donated to a Brahmin or in-laws.
The mental concentration and self-control of women are important throughout this fast. They remain immersed in devotion all day long.
Beliefs related to the Vrat
There is a prevalent belief regarding the Kokila Vrat that the woman who observes this fast attains good fortune throughout her life. Additionally, it is believed that hearing the voice of the cuckoo and seeing it on this day is a sign of inner purity and auspiciousness.
Many women observe this fast for the entire month with special rules. Throughout the month, they adopt a sattvic lifestyle and follow a regulated diet.
What is the relationship with Hariyali Teej?
Kokila Vrat comes before the beginning of the Sawan month and a few days before Hariyali Teej. While Hariyali Teej is considered the main festival of Sawan, Kokila Vrat is considered its spiritual beginning.
This fast is not only a means of maintaining traditions, but also a means of fostering mutual bonding among women from a social point of view.
