Amla Navami is an important festival celebrated in Hindu culture during which devotees worship the Amla treealso known as Indian gooseberry. It falls on the ninth day of the fortnight known as Shukla Paksha of the month of Kartik in the Hindu calendar. This year Amla is celebrated today on November 10, 2024. The day is rich in all religious and cultural aspects signifying the spiritual and health properties of this sacred tree.

The origin of Amla Navami is well rooted in Hindu mythology. According to several texts, including the Padma Purana, the Amla tree personifies Lord Vishnu. He is said to bring incredible prophecies and fortune into the lives of people who worship him.
On the day of Amla Navami, devotees fast and chant prayer lists and even do puja (worship) under the Amla tree. It is considered the day of worship in the presence of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi; It is believed that a person receives the grace of both when he worships under the Amla tree on this day. Devotees first sprinkle holy water, Ganga Jal, at the root of the tree for purification before starting the rituals. Then they light a ghee lamp and worship with flowers. Devotees then circle the tree, offering water is considered to please Goddess Lakshmi, bringing wealth and prosperity to those who participate in these sacred acts.
Worshiping the Amla tree on Amla Navami promotes physical and mental well-being. Its medicinal properties are believed to cure diseases, boost immunity and improve vitality. Hindu texts highlight the sacred energy of the tree, believed to cure illness and improve longevity.

Health Benefits of Amla
Although it has cultural significance, Amla has always held great importance and is called a “superfood» because of its abundance of nutrients promoting general well-being. Amla is one of the richest sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in boosting the body’s natural immunity and fights infections. Regular consumption can help strengthen the body’s natural defense mechanisms.
The fruit has powerful antioxidants that eliminate oxidative stress from the body. This property also helps a person benefit from the fruit in terms of skin care. This can reduce the signs of aging. Amla also promotes digestion by stimulating the production of gastric juice. This also facilitates the proper functioning of the intestine and the proper absorption of nutrients. Its regular consumption cleanses the body and is a great choice if you have overindulged in Diwali celebrations.

Amla Navami reminds people of Hindu culture’s deep connection between spirituality, health and nature. As devotees offer a day to worship the Amla tree, they not only ask for good blessings but also good health through nutrition. Thus, the celebration of Amla Navami encapsulates a holistic approach to life by combining both physical fitness and spiritual wealth.