Bhadrakali Jayanti is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth anniversary of Goddess Bhadrakali. The festival is observed on the “Ekadasi” (11th day) of Krishna Paksha (dark half of the moon) in the Hindu month of “Jyeshtha” which falls in the May/June Gregorian calendar. The word “Bhadra” means “good” in Sanskrit and it is believed that worshipping the Goddess on this day ensures her protection towards good things. In some parts of India, the day is also known as “Apara Ekadasi” and in Odisha it is called “Jalakrida Ekadasi”.
Mythological significance
According to Hindu mythology, when Lord Shiva became enraged upon learning of the death of Goddess Sati, Goddess Bhadrakali emerged from Lord Shiva’s hair. She appeared to kill Sati’s father, Daksh Prachapati. Her main purpose in appearing was to destroy all the demons on earth. Bhadrakali Jayanti is an important day for Hindus and is celebrated with great fervor across the country. The day is especially important for Arya Saraswath Brahmins and is celebrated with great fervor in the Indian states of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir.
Importance of Bhadrakali Jayanti
The importance of Bhadrakali Jayanti is mentioned in the “Nirmat Purana” or “Vitastha Mahatmya”. It is believed that worshipping Goddess Kali on this day will enable the devotee to overcome all obstacles in life. Devotees believe that by offering prayers to Goddess Bhadrakali, all horoscope problems including “Gula Dosha” can be resolved. Moreover, as Bhadrakali Jayanti falls on Krishna Paksha Ekadashi, it is believed that worshipping on this day will fulfill 11 wishes. It is considered even more auspicious if this festival falls on a Tuesday or “Revati” nakshatra. It takes on even more significance if it coincides with the “Kumbh Mela”.
Bhadrakali Jayanti Celebration
People across India will celebrate Bhadrakali Jayanti 2024 with enthusiasm and devotion. Moreover, to celebrate the special day, they decorate temples dedicated to the Goddess with flowers, lights and offerings. Moreover, devotees will gather in temples and their homes to perform special puja rituals, offer prayers, fruits, flowers and sweets to the Goddess. Finally, devotees believe that these offerings will bring blessings and protection from Bhadrakali.
Many devotees also observe fasting on this day as a mark of respect and devotion to the Goddess. Prayers and chants reverberate throughout the day. Moreover, people sing hymns and kirtans in praise of Bhadrakali. In some places, processions are held in which idols of the Goddess are carried through the streets. Moreover, these processions are accompanied by music and dance. Ultimately, these celebrations bring the community together and strengthen faith.
Bhadrakali Jayanti Traditions and Rituals
Bhadrakali Jayanti 2024 is a day of deep faith and spiritual practice. Devotees observe various traditions and rituals to honour the Goddess and seek her blessings. These practices strengthen their faith and connection with the divine.
fasting
Many devotees fast throughout the day as a sign of respect for the Goddess, and this fast helps them to focus on their faith and spiritual growth.
Special Puja
Devotees perform special puja rituals at their homes and temples and offer fruits, flowers and sweets to seek the goddess’s blessings.
Homa
People perform fire rituals called homas to invoke the Goddess and seek her divine protection and blessings for prosperity.
Chanting mantras
Chanting mantras dedicated to Bhadrakali is a way to connect with the Goddess and seek strength and courage from her.
Prayer Song
Singing bhajans and kirtans (choir songs) in praise of Bhadrakali fills the air with devotion and creates a peaceful atmosphere for worship.
Temple decoration
The temple is beautifully decorated with flowers, lights and other decorations, creating a festive and spiritual atmosphere.
Offerings
Devotees offer coconuts, sweets and other items to the Goddess as a sign of faith and gratitude.
Cultural Performance
In some areas, cultural performances including dance and music will be organised to celebrate Bhadrakali Jayanti 2024, showcasing local traditions.
queue
Devotees sometimes organize processions carrying the idol of the goddess through the streets, accompanied by music and dancing.
meditation
Many people spend time meditating and contemplating the attributes of the Goddess, seeking her guidance and inner peace. These traditions and rituals help devotees deepen their spiritual connection with the Goddess and receive her blessings. Through these practices, people honor the divine presence of Bhadrakali and strive to live in accordance with her teachings.
