Guruvar Vrat Katha (Thursday Fast Story)
The Thursday (Guruvar) fast is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Brihaspati Dev (Jupiter). It is observed for wealth, knowledge, prosperity, and the fulfilment of wishes. Below is the complete story, the method of worship, and the benefits of the fast.
In ancient times, there ruled a mighty and generous king. He was very charitable and, every Thursday, he observed the fast of Brihaspati Dev and gave donations to Brahmins and the needy. His queen, however, did not like this charity and fasting.
One day, Brihaspati Dev came to the queen in the guise of a sadhu and said, “If you wish for comfort, stop your charity and fasting — do not waste your wealth.” Persuaded by the queen, the king gave up his donations and the Thursday fast.
As soon as the fast and charity stopped, the prosperity of the household began to fade. Gradually the royal family fell into poverty. The king went abroad to earn a living, and the queen had to endure great hardship. Then Brihaspati Dev appeared again in the form of a sadhu and said, “Observe the Thursday fast with devotion; offer gram lentils, jaggery, bananas, and yellow items, and worship Brihaspati Dev and Lord Vishnu.”
The queen once again began the Thursday fast with full devotion. By the grace of Brihaspati Dev, the king succeeded abroad, returned home, and the family enjoyed even greater happiness and prosperity than before. Since then, it is believed that those who observe the Thursday fast with devotion always receive the blessings of Brihaspati Dev and Lord Vishnu.
🪔 Fast & Puja Method
- On Thursday, bathe in the morning and wear yellow clothes.
- Worship Lord Vishnu and Brihaspati Dev; worshipping a banana tree is also considered auspicious.
- Offer gram lentils (chana dal), jaggery, banana, and yellow flowers.
- Read or listen to the Guruvar Vrat Katha with devotion.
- Conclude with the aarti and share prasad; eat yellow food once during the day.
Benefits of the Fast
- It brings wealth, knowledge, and prosperity.
- It is believed to remove obstacles in marriage and bring happiness in married life.
- It brings the favourable influence and auspicious results of the planet Jupiter (Brihaspati).
- It fills the home with positivity, contentment, and the grace of Lord Vishnu.
🙏 Sing Guruwar Aarti
After completing the Thursday Vrat Katha, devotees traditionally perform the Aarti of Lord Vishnu and Brihaspati Dev.
Brihaspati Dev / Guruvar Aarti
Om Jai Brihaspati Deva, Swami Jai Brihaspati Deva।
Chhin Chhin Bhog Lagaaun, Kadali Phal Meva॥
॥Om Jai Brihaspati Deva॥
Tum Pooran Parmatma, Tum Antaryami।
Jagatpita Jagdishwar, Tum Sabke Swami॥
॥Om Jai Brihaspati Deva॥
Charanamrit Nij Nirmal, Sab Patak Harta।
Sakal Manorath Dayak, Kripa Karo Bharta॥
॥Om Jai Brihaspati Deva॥
Tan, Man, Dhan Arpan Kar, Jo Jan Sharan Pade।
Prabhu Prakat Tab Hokar, Aakar Dwar Khade॥
॥Om Jai Brihaspati Deva॥
DinDayal Dayanidhi, Bhaktan Hitkari।
Paap Dosh Sab Harta, Bhav Bhandhan Haari॥
॥Om Jai Brihaspati Deva॥
Sakal Manorath Dayak, Sab Sanshay Haro।
Vishay Vikar Mitao, Santan Sukhkari॥
॥Om Jai Brihaspati Deva॥
Jo Koi Aarti Teri, Prem Sahit Gaave।
Jethanana Anandkar, So Nischay Paave॥
॥Om Jai Brihaspati Deva॥
Read also: Om Jai Jagdish Hare Aarti (in English)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Thursday (Guruvar) fast dedicated to?
The Thursday fast is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Brihaspati Dev, and is observed for wealth, knowledge, and prosperity.
What food is eaten during the Guruvar fast?
Yellow food (such as chana dal or yellow rice) is eaten once during the day; yellow items are considered auspicious on this day.
Which colour is auspicious for the Thursday fast?
Yellow is considered auspicious — it holds special significance in the clothes, flowers, and food of the day.