On 14th June 2024, the birth anniversary of Dhumavati, the seventh of the ten Mahavidya Goddesses , will be celebrated. Dhumavati is described as an old widow, considered an unlucky sign in Indian culture. She is associated with hunger, thirst, and the beginning of fights—characteristics not very close to the traditional concept of divinity as the embodiment of beauty, richness, and balance.
This deity represents certain undesirable or evil aspects of life. However, their worship at specific times of the year underscores a profound understanding in Hinduism: that everything in the world, even the things that may be considered unfavourable, are, in fact, necessary for the existence of the world. Dhumavati is associated with the shadowy realm in Vedic astrology and is considered the deity of the unknown.
Her Jayanti on June 14, 2024, coincides with certain planetary positions accentuating her importance. This day is in the moon's waning phase, called the Krishna Paksha, a period of reflection, letting go, and transformation.' In astrology, Saturn, the planet of hardship and discipline, is connected with the lessons Dhumavati symbolises about accepting life's difficulties.
Rahu, the shadow planet of obsession and illusion, is the planet most associated with her unfulfilled desires. Ketu, symbolising separation and spiritualism, reflects her final message of freedom from worldly fetters. Dhumavati’s Jayanti is particularly beneficial for people who are experiencing tough time.