Parshuram Jayanti is an auspicious Hindu festival celebrated every year to mark the birth anniversary of Lord Parshuram, who is believed to be the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This year, Parshuram Jayanti falls on Friday, 10th of May. It is a significant festival for the followers of Hinduism, especially those who worship Lord Vishnu. In this article, we will discuss the significance, history, rituals, and celebrations associated with Parshuram Jayanti.
Date and Time of Parshuram Jayanti 2024
Parshuram Jayanti is celebrated every year on the third day of Shukla Paksha (the waxing phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Vaishakh. This day usually falls in April or May according to the Gregorian calendar. In 2024, Parshuram Jayanti will be celebrated on Friday, 10th of May.
The celebrations usually begin early in the morning with devotees taking a holy bath and visiting the temple to offer prayers to Lord Parshuram. The day is filled with various rituals, traditions, and cultural programs that continue until late at night.
The Story of the Birth of Lord Parshuram
Lord Parshuram, also known as Rama Jamadagnya, is considered to be the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu in Hindu mythology. His birth is surrounded by many interesting stories.
According to one legend, Lord Parshuram was born to the sage Jamadagni and his wife Renuka. Jamadagni was a powerful sage who had received the divine power of Lord Shiva through his prayers. Renuka was a devoted wife and a pure-hearted woman.
One day, while Renuka was fetching water from the river, she saw a group of Gandharvas (celestial musicians) playing and singing. She was so mesmerized by their music and dance that she forgot the time and delayed her return to the ashram. When she finally returned, she found that Jamadagni was furious with her for being late. He suspected that she had lost her purity by being enchanted by the Gandharvas.
Jamadagni then ordered his son, Parshuram, to behead Renuka as punishment for her alleged infidelity. Parshuram, who was known for his devotion to his father, obeyed his command without hesitation. However, when Jamadagni saw Parshuram’s obedience, he was pleased with him and granted him a boon. Parshuram asked for his mother’s life to be restored, and Jamadagni granted his wish.
In some versions of the story, Renuka was not actually unfaithful, but her delay in returning was due to her being distracted by the beauty of the river and the surroundings.
The story of the birth of Lord Parshuram highlights the importance of obedience and devotion to parents, as well as the consequences of hasty actions and accusations. Lord Parshuram is regarded as a symbol of duty, devotion, and strength in Hindu mythology.
Worship Method of Lord Parshuram
Lord Parshuram is considered to be one of the most important deities in Hinduism. He is worshipped by many devotees, especially in the northern and western parts of India. Here are some common methods of worshipping Lord Parshuram:
- Puja: The most common way of worshipping Lord Parshuram is by performing a puja. The puja involves offering flowers, fruits, sweets, and other items to the deity. Devotees chant mantras and hymns during the puja to invoke Lord Parshuram’s blessings.
- Fasting: Many devotees observe a fast on Tuesdays, which is considered to be Lord Parshuram’s day. Fasting is believed to help purify the body and mind and increase devotion towards Lord Parshuram.
- Reciting the Parshuram Chalisa: The Parshuram Chalisa is a hymn in praise of Lord Parshuram. Reciting it is believed to bring blessings and remove obstacles from one’s life.
- Visiting Temples: There are several temples dedicated to Lord Parshuram across India. Visiting these temples and offering prayers is believed to bring good fortune and blessings.
- Donating to the Poor: Lord Parshuram is known for his devotion to helping the poor and needy. Donating to the poor is believed to be a form of worshipping Lord Parshuram and is considered to be a virtuous act.
Significance of Parshuram Jayanti
Parshuram Jayanti is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth anniversary of Lord Parshuram, who is considered to be the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion by devotees of Lord Parshuram. Here are some of the significance of Parshuram Jayanti:
- Celebration of Lord Parshuram’s Birth: Parshuram Jayanti is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Parshuram, who is revered as a great warrior, sage, and teacher. He is believed to have lived during the Treta Yuga and is considered to be an embodiment of Lord Vishnu’s qualities.
- Reminder of the Importance of Duty: Lord Parshuram is known for his devotion to his duty as a warrior and protector of dharma. His unwavering commitment to his duty is seen as an inspiration for people to fulfil their responsibilities with dedication and integrity.
- Relevance in Contemporary Times: Lord Parshuram’s teachings and actions are still relevant in contemporary times. His emphasis on upholding dharma, the need to stand up against injustice, and the importance of self-discipline continue to inspire people to live a virtuous life.
- Celebration of Indian Culture: Parshuram Jayanti is also a celebration of Indian culture and tradition. The festival is celebrated with traditional rituals, music, and dance, which help to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of India.
- Unity and Harmony: Parshuram Jayanti is a festival that brings people from different backgrounds and communities together in celebration. The festival is celebrated across India, and it is an occasion for people to come together in a spirit of unity and harmony.
History and Legends Behind Parshuram Jayanti
The origin of Parshuram Jayanti dates back to ancient times. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Parshuram was born to Sage Jamadagni and his wife Renuka. He was raised and trained by his father in the art of warfare and archery. Parshuram was a fierce warrior and a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva. He is believed to have lived during the Treta Yuga and is said to have played a significant role in the epic Ramayana and Mahabharata.
There are many legends associated with Parshuram Jayanti. One of the most popular legends is that Parshuram was born to avenge the death of his father, who was killed by King Kartavirya Arjuna. Parshuram went on a rampage and killed all the Kshatriyas (warrior class) in the world for 21 times. It is believed that the land where he threw his axe became the state of Kerala.
Another legend says that Parshuram was the one who gifted the land of Konkan to the Brahmins. According to this legend, Lord Parshuram was wandering in search of a suitable place to perform penance, and he found the land of Konkan to be ideal. He then gifted the land to the Brahmins and vowed to protect it from any harm.
Shukla Paksha
Shukla Paksha is a phase of the lunar cycle in the Hindu calendar. It is the bright half of the lunar month, which begins on the day of the new moon and ends on the full moon day. The word ‘Shukla’ means bright or white, and ‘Paksha’ means a fortnight.
During the Shukla Paksha, the moon grows in size, and its light increases day by day. It is considered to be a very auspicious period for new beginnings, such as starting a new business or a new venture. Many festivals and auspicious occasions are also celebrated during this period.
The Shukla Paksha is believed to be associated with the Hindu god Vishnu, who is considered to be the preserver of the universe. It is believed that any religious or spiritual practice undertaken during this period is especially potent, and any good deeds done during this time are believed to be multiplied.
The 13th day of the Shukla Paksha is celebrated as ‘Guru Purnima’, which is a day dedicated to honoring spiritual gurus or teachers. The full moon day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha is celebrated as ‘Ashadhi Purnima’ or ‘Guru Purnima’. This day is considered to be especially auspicious for spiritual practices and for seeking the blessings of one’s guru.
Significance of Akshaya Tritiya
Akshaya Tritiya is an important Hindu festival that is celebrated on the third day of the bright half of the lunar month of Vaishakha. The festival holds great significance in Hindu mythology and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion across India. Here are some of the significance of Akshaya Tritiya:
- Auspicious Day for New Beginnings: Akshaya Tritiya is considered to be one of the most auspicious days of the year. It is believed that any new venture or investment made on this day will bring prosperity and success. Hence, many people start new businesses, buy property, or make investments on this day.
- Significance in Hindu Mythology: According to Hindu mythology, Akshaya Tritiya is the day when Lord Vishnu incarnated as Lord Parshuram. It is also believed to be the day when the Treta Yuga began, which is considered to be a significant epoch in Hindu mythology.
- Religious Significance: Akshaya Tritiya is a day of great religious significance for Hindus. It is believed that any puja, charity, or good deed done on this day will be rewarded manifold.
- Agricultural Significance: Akshaya Tritiya is also considered to be an important agricultural festival. It marks the beginning of the sowing season and is believed to be an auspicious day for farmers to start planting crops.
- Celebration of Abundance and Prosperity: Akshaya Tritiya is a celebration of abundance and prosperity. It is believed that any offering made to God on this day will be multiplied, and one will be blessed with wealth and happiness.
- Celebration of Love and Commitment: In some parts of India, Akshaya Tritiya is also celebrated as a day of love and commitment. It is believed that couples who get engaged or married on this day will have a long and prosperous married life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Parshuram Jayanti celebrated?
Parshuram Jayanti is celebrated to honor and commemorate the birth anniversary of Lord Parshuram, who is believed to be the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion by Hindus across India, and is considered to be a highly auspicious day for seeking the blessings of Lord Parshuram.
When did Parshuram born?
The exact date of Parshuram’s birth is not known, but it is believed to have taken place in the Treta Yuga, which is said to have occurred millions of years ago according to Hindu mythology. Parshuram is considered to be immortal and is believed to exist to this day.
What is the story of Parshuram Jayanti?
According to Hindu mythology, Parshuram was born as the son of sage Jamadagni and his wife Renuka. He was a warrior and a devoted follower of Lord Shiva, who had gifted him with a powerful axe called ‘Parshu’. The story of Parshuram Jayanti celebrates the life and achievements of Lord Parshuram, who is believed to have fought many battles and defeated numerous demons to protect the earth and its inhabitants.
What did Parshuram do 21 times?
According to Hindu mythology, Parshuram is said to have taken up his axe and killed the warrior class, known as the Kshatriyas, 21 times. This act was said to have been carried out to rid the earth of their wickedness and to restore righteousness and justice to the land. It is believed that after the 21st killing, Parshuram finally found peace and relinquished his violent ways.
Why do Brahmins worship Parshuram?
Brahmins, who are the priestly caste in Hinduism, worship Parshuram because he is believed to be the embodiment of knowledge, righteousness, and truth. Parshuram is also considered to be the first warrior-saint and is revered for his devotion to Lord Shiva and his unwavering commitment to protecting dharma or righteousness. Many Brahmins see Parshuram as a role model and strive to emulate his qualities of strength, courage, and devotion.