What Are Pushkaralu?
Pushkaralu is a sacred festival celebrated in India when the planet Jupiter transits into a new zodiac sign, marking a 12-year cycle for each of the 12 sacred rivers. The festival is observed with great devotion where devotees believe that taking a holy dip during this period purifies the soul and brings blessings. The event is marked by rituals, prayers, and spiritual gatherings.
Saraswati Pushkaralu 2025: Dates and Location
Dates: May 15 2025 – May 26 2025
Primary Locations: Kaleshwaram, Bhupalpally District, Telangana State and Mana Village near Badrinath in Uttarakhand.
Significance: The confluence of the Saraswati, Godavari, and Pranahita rivers, making it a sacred Triveni Sangam.
Where can one participate in these rituals during this festival
Major Ritual Locations:
- Pushkar Ghat, Kaleshwaram (Telangana) – The heart of the festival, where thousands of devotees gather for the holy dip and rituals.
- Basara (Gnana Saraswati Temple) (Telangana) – A revered temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, known for Aksharabhyasam (initiation into learning).
- Narasimhasagar & Dharmapuri Ghats (Telangana) – Other significant riverbanks where devotees perform ancestral offerings and homams.
- Mana Village near Badrinath (Uttarakhand) – A sacred site where pilgrims take part in prayers and spiritual discourses
Rituals and Beliefs
Holy Dip: Devotees take a ritualistic bath in the river, believed to cleanse sins and bring prosperity.
Shraddham and Tarpanam: Offerings made to ancestors, seeking their blessings.
Aarati Ceremonies: Evening prayers and rituals conducted to honor the river goddess.
- Homams: Special fire rituals for various blessings, including:
- Sri Dattatreya Homam (for wisdom)
- Sankashta Hara Ganapati Homam (for removing obstacles)
- Sri Hayagriva Homam (for intelligence and memory power)
- Sri Putrakameshti Homam (for progeny)
Accommodation
Hotels Near Kaleshwaram Kshetra
- Kaleshwaram Haritha Hotel
For Bookings, Call Us on +91 – 9110583839
Click Here For More Details.
2. Hotels Near Badrinath
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FAQ
Why is the Saraswati River considered sacred?
The Saraswati River is mentioned in ancient texts like the Rigveda and is associated with wisdom, purity, and learning. Though believed to have disappeared, its spiritual presence remains strong
How can I reach the festival locations?
Hyderabad to Kaleshwaram
By Road
Car or Taxi:
- Distance: ~264 km
- Duration: ~4 hours 20 minutes via NH163 & NH353C
Bus:
- TSRTC Bus Services: Available from Hyderabad Central Bus Station (CBS) & Uppal
- Duration: ~6.5 hours.
By Train
Nearest Railway Station: Ramgundam
Train from Hyderabad to Ramgundam: Takes ~3.5 hours.
Taxi from Ramgundam to Kaleshwaram: Takes ~1 hour
- Total Duration: ~4 hours 30 minutes.
2. Haridwar to Mana Village, Uttarakhand
By Road
Car or Taxi:
Distance: ~317 km
Duration: ~9 hours 30 minutes via NH7
Bus:
Nearest Bus Stop: Joshimath
Haridwar to Joshimath: Regular buses available, taking ~10 hours.
Joshimath to Mana Village: Local taxis or shared jeeps available, taking ~1 hour.
By Train
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh
Train from Haridwar to Rishikesh: Takes ~1 hour.
Taxi from Rishikesh to Mana Village: Takes ~9 hours.
Total Duration: ~10 hours.
Is the Saraswati River visible at Kaleshwaram?
While the Saraswati River is mythical and invisible, its presence is believed to be spiritual and is felt at the Triveni Sangam where it is said to merge with the Godavari and Pranahita rivers.
Are there cultural events during the festival?
Yes, cultural programs like classical music, dance performances, and spiritual discourses are organized at various venues throughout the festival.
Are there arrangements for pilgrims at Kaleshwaram?
Yes. The government of Telangana is preparing:
Bathing ghats
Temporary accommodations (tent cities)
Toilets and changing rooms
Free food counters and medical facilities
Security and crowd management services
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