Umamaheshwara Vrata is one of the
holy astha maha varta that are
mentioned in the Skandha Purana. This
vrata is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and is observed for
marital bliss. Umamaheshwara vrata is observed on the poornima or the full moon
day in the month of Bhadrapada. However as per the Tamil calendar this vrata
falls during the month of Purataasi. Devotees can observe the umamaheshwara
vrata either on Ashtami, the Chaturdashi or during Poornima or Ammavasya. Some
communities in different parts of the country also observe the Umamaheshwara
vrata on the poornima of the Hindu month of Karthika that is during
mid-November till mid-December, when the Sun moves into the Vrishchika rashi.
The day of Kartik Poornima is known to be very auspicious for performing any
religious activity.
Observance
Earlier the Umamaheshwara vrata was observed for a period of 12 years on the poornima (full moon day) in the month of Bhadrapad. During this vrata the devotees make a metal idol of Uma and Lord Maheshwara (Parvati and Shiva) and worship it on that day. After devotedly worshipping for twelve years, on the final year, the metal murti is then donated to any Lord Shiva temple.