1870.] The Vddu Ydga. 225 



The cocoa-nut tree near the dwelling-house confers wealth on the family, 

 and if on the east or north-east of an encampment, the tree is the donor of 

 sons. The mango tree, the best of trees, is auspicious at every place, and 

 if situated on the east, gives wealth to men. The Bel tree, the jack tree, 

 and the citron tree, and the plum tree, are in all situations conducive to pro- 

 sperity. 



The Durvdshtami is one of the many vratas observed by Hindu 

 females. It is celebrated on the eighth lunar day of the bright 

 fortnight of the month of Bhadra. 



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 On the day fixed for worshipping Durva, a fast is observed, and 



Durva, Gfauri, Gfanesa, and Siva, are worshipped with rice, fruits, 



and flowers. 



Durva is described as 



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Dark as the petals of a blue lotus, held on the heads of all gods, pure, born 

 from the body of Vishnu, anointed with nectar, free from all sickness, immor- 

 tal, incarnation of Vishnu, and giver of good children and virtue, wealth and 

 salvation. 



A thread, with eight knots, and fruits, &c, are presented to 

 Durva, and the following prayer is then read : 



Durva, you are called immortal, and you are worshipped both by gods and 

 asuras. Having blessed us with prosperity and children, fulfil all our wishes. 

 As you extend over the earth with your suckers and branches, in the same 

 way give me healthy and immortal children. 

 30 



