Dadhi Vrata is observed during the
second month of the Chaturmas and is followed mainly in South India by certain
Hindu communities. The month long Vrata is dedicated to Vishnu. Dadhi Vrata
begins on the 12th day of the Shukla Paksha or waxing phase of moon in Shravana
Masa. During this one month, food prepared using curd are avoided by Hindu
communities that observe the Chaturmasya Vrata.
The Vrata begins on the Shukla
Paksha Dwadashi in Shravana month. Dadhi Vrata is part of the Chaturmasya Vrata.
All food made from yoghurt and curd is avoided in the month. The Vrata ends on
the Shukla Paksha Ekadasi in Bhadrapad month. The belief is that the Vrata is
kept to flush out toxins and regain health. This is the reason why certain
particular food items are avoided during the four months.
The importance of the Chaturmas Vrata is mentioned in the Varaha Purana.