Anant Chaturdashi 2026: Rituals and significance of the Anant Sutra

Anant Chaturdashi, a festival dedicated to the infinite form of Lord Vishnu, will be observed on Friday, September 25, 2026. A central tradition of this day involves tying the ‘Anant Sutra’, a sacred thread featuring 14 knots.

The 14 knots are believed to represent the 14 worlds (lokas) or the various forms of Lord Vishnu. Wearing the thread is intended to bring prosperity, peace, and protection from both known and unknown calamities, while providing mental strength and spiritual security.

Religious customs dictate specific rules for wearing the thread: men and unmarried women should tie the Anant Sutra on their right wrist, while married women should wear it on their left wrist. Traditions regarding how long the thread should be kept vary by region, with some practitioners wearing it for extended periods and others following specific rituals to remove and store it safely.