Lord Krishna

Shrimad Bhagwat Katha

A seven day recitation and discourse on the Shrimad Bhagavatam, narrating the lila of Lord Krishna and the stories of great devotees.

In-person Online available7 days, usually 3 to 5 hours each dayAlso: Bhagwat KathaAlso: Bhagwat Saptah

Overview

What is Shrimad Bhagwat Katha?

Shrimad Bhagwat Katha, often held as a Bhagwat Saptah, is a seven day programme in which a kathavachak recites and explains the Shrimad Bhagavatam. Each day covers a set portion, from the stories of Parikshit and Shukadev to the birth and lila of Lord Krishna.

Along with the katha, a Pandit performs daily puja, and the programme usually includes bhajans, Krishna Janmotsav, Rukmini Vivah and a concluding havan and bhandara. Families can arrange a large public katha or a simpler home based moolpath.

Many families organise the katha for the peace of departed ancestors, on anniversaries, or as a community programme in a temple or society.

सर्वमङ्गलमाङ्गल्ये शिवे सर्वार्थसाधिके।
शरण्ये त्र्यम्बके गौरि नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते॥

Sarvamaṅgalamāṅgalye śive sarvārthasādhike, śaraṇye tryambake gauri nārāyaṇi namo'stu te.

O auspicious one, source of all auspiciousness, who fulfils every aim and gives refuge, O Gauri, O Narayani, salutations to you.Devi Mahatmyam (Durga Saptashati)

Significance

The Bhagavata Purana itself describes the merit of hearing the Bhagavatam over seven days, as King Parikshit did from Sage Shukadev. The Saptah format follows this tradition.

The katha is seen as a way of filling the home and community with bhakti. It is also commonly held in memory of departed family members, with the merit dedicated to them.

Who performs it

Families wishing to hold a Bhagwat Saptah at home or in a hall
Families remembering departed ancestors
Temples, societies and communities arranging a public katha
Devotees of Lord Krishna seeking a deep spiritual programme

When to perform

During Pitru Paksha, in memory of ancestors
In the months of Shravan, Kartik or Margashirsha
On an anniversary or punya tithi
On a muhurat set by the Pandit for seven consecutive days

Traditionally associated with

Traditionally associated with peace for departed ancestors
Devotees seek bhakti, clarity and inner peace
Brings family and community together over seven days
Regarded as one of the most meritorious katha programmes

These are traditional beliefs associated with the ritual. Pujas are acts of devotion and are not a substitute for medical, financial or professional advice.

How the puja is performed

1
Kalash yatra and sthapana
The katha often begins with a kalash yatra and the establishment of the Bhagavatam on a vyas peeth.
2
Daily puja
Each day begins with puja of the text and deities by the Pandit.
3
Katha and bhajans
The kathavachak recites and explains the day's portion, with bhajans and kirtan.
4
Utsavs
Key episodes such as Krishna Janmotsav and Rukmini Vivah are celebrated during the week.
5
Havan and bhandara
The Saptah concludes with a havan, purnahuti, aarti and bhandara.

The exact vidhi varies by region and family tradition, your Pandit will follow your customs.

Samagri (puja materials)

Shrimad Bhagavatam and a vyas peeth
Kalash with mango leaves and coconut
Images of Lord Krishna
Flowers and garlands for each day
Ghee diyas, incense and camphor
Tulsi leaves
Fruits, sweets and panchamrit for bhog
Havan samagri for the final day

Samagri can be arranged on request. We'll share a list suited to your vidhi before the day.

What's included

Usually included

Experienced Pandit(s) or kathavachak for the path
Sankalp in your name, gotra and family details
Guidance on setting up the space, timing and preparation
Vidhi, recitation and aarti as per tradition
Samagri can be arranged on request

Not included

Samagri, flowers and prasad, unless arranged on request
Musicians, sound system or tent, unless arranged separately
Venue or hall charges, where a venue is needed
Travel and stay for Pandits for multi day events outside the service area
Dakshina, where customs vary and are discussed openly

Duration: 7 days, usually 3 to 5 hours each day. Inclusions are confirmed for your booking on WhatsApp.

In-person puja

A Pandit performs the ritual at your home, office or chosen venue in Varanasi or Hyderabad. We help with muhurat, samagri and preparation.

Online puja

· Share your name, gotra and the purpose of the katha on WhatsApp
· A moolpath or katha is conducted with sankalp in your name
· Join daily sessions by video call

How online Shrimad Bhagwat Katha works

Available in

Shrimad Bhagwat Katha in Varanasi Shrimad Bhagwat Katha in Hyderabad Online, worldwide

More cities are coming soon.