12 May - Kurma Jayanti

 

Kurma Jayanti is a significant Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Kurma, the second avatar of Lord Vishnu. This event falls on the Purnima (full moon) day in the month of Vaishakha according to the Hindu lunar calendar, which typically corresponds to April or May in the Gregorian calendar.

Significance

Kurma Jayanti commemorates the incarnation of Lord Vishnu as a giant tortoise (Kurma) during the churning of the ocean of milk, an event known as Samudra Manthan. According to Hindu mythology, the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) churned the ocean to obtain the nectar of immortality (Amrita). Lord Vishnu took the form of Kurma to support Mount Mandara, which was used as the churning rod, on his back to prevent it from sinking during the process. This avatar symbolizes support and stability in times of turmoil and crisis.

Rituals and Observances

Devotees observe Kurma Jayanti with various rituals and traditions:

• Fasting: Many devotees observe a fast from sunrise to sunset, breaking it only after performing the evening rituals.
• Puja: Special prayers and pujas are conducted in temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Devotees offer flowers, fruits, sweets, and other traditional offerings.
• Mantras and Bhajans: Chanting of Vishnu Sahasranama (a collection of a thousand names of Lord Vishnu) and singing devotional songs (bhajans) in praise of Lord Vishnu are common practices.
• Charity: Acts of charity and donations are encouraged, reflecting the virtues of generosity and compassion that Lord Vishnu embodies.
• Reading Scriptures: Devotees read and listen to stories from the Puranas, particularly those related to the Kurma avatar and Samudra Manthan.

Cultural Impact

Kurma Jayanti is celebrated with great devotion in many parts of India, especially in regions where Vishnu worship is predominant. Temples organize special events and ceremonies, attracting large gatherings of devotees who come to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu. The festival not only reinforces the importance of faith and devotion but also highlights the eternal cosmic principles represented by the avatars of Vishnu.

In essence, Kurma Jayanti is a day of spiritual reflection, devotion, and celebration, honoring the divine intervention of Lord Vishnu in preserving cosmic order and supporting the forces of good in the universe.