Valmiki Jayanti 2021

Valmiki Jayanti celebrates the birth anniversary of the great author and sage, Maharishi Valmiki. As per the traditional Hindu calendar, Valmiki Jayanti is celebrated on Purnima tithi (full moon Day) in the month of Ashwin whereas in the Gregorian calendar it corresponds to the month of September-October.

Maharishi Valmiki is the author of the great Hindu epic Ramayana and is also revered as the ‘Aadi Kavi’ or the first poet of Sanskrit Literature. Ramayana, depicting the story of Lord Ram was first written by him in Sanskrit language and consists of 24,000 verses that are divided into 7 ‘Kandas’ (cantos). Valmiki Jayanti is observed in honor of this acclaimed saint. This day is celebrated with dedication in the northern regions of India and is also referred to as ‘Pragat Diwas’.

Valmiki Jayanti 2021 is on October 20

Rituals during Valmiki Jayanti

• On Valmiki Jayanti, people pay their respect towards this renowned saint and poet. Several processions carrying the portrait of Valmiki are taken out in several towns and villages. Hindu devotees worship him devotedly on this day. In many places, prayers are offered to his portrait.
• Recitations of Ramayana are held in temples of Lord Ram all over India on this day. There are several temples dedicated to Maharishi Valmiki in India. On the occasion of Valmiki Jayanti, these temples are magnificently decorated with flowers. Several incense sticks are lighted that render the atmosphere pure and blissful. Kirtans and bhajan programs are organized in these temples. Many devotees also visit Lord Rama temples on this occasion and recite few verses of Ramayana in reminiscence of Maharishi Valmiki.
• Also on Valmiki Jayanti distribution of free food to the poor and needy is held at various places. Doing charity is considered to be very rewarding on this day.

Significance of Valmiki Jayanti

The day of Valmiki Jayanti holds great religious significance in Hinduism as it celebrates the unparalleled contribution of Maharishi Valmiki. He had authored some incredible works that include Ramayana, Mahabharata, and several Puranas. The celebration of Valmiki Jayanti is a tribute to a great saint who conquered his limitations and through the medium of his teachings encouraged the masses to fight against social justice. He propagated the values of Lord Ram and recognized Him as a man of penance and benevolence.