In India's national civil calendar, Agrahayana is also the ninth month of the year, beginning on 16 November and ending on 15 December.
In solar religious calendars, Agrahayana (or Margaḻi in Tamil traditions) begins with the Sun's entry into the zodiac sign Sagittarius (Dhanus Rashi) and is considered the ninth month of the year.
Additionally, the 10th Canto, 22nd Chapter of Bhagavata Purana narrates a significant episode where the young, marriageable daughters of the cowherd men of Gokula (gopis) worship goddess Katyayani.
This fast is observed on all Thursdays of the Margashirsha month in the Hindu lunar calendar, totaling four days of devotion and prayer.
The fast holds special significance, as it is associated with wealth, prosperity, mental and spiritual growth, making it ideal for invoking goddess Lakshmi’s blessings.