Narasimha Jayanti is a significant Hindu festival celebrated to commemorate the appearance or birth anniversary of Lord Narasimha, the fourth avatar of Lord Vishnu. It typically falls on the fourteenth day (chaturdashi) of the lunar month of Vaishakha, which usually occurs in April or May according to the Gregorian calendar.
On this auspicious day, devotees observe fasts, perform special prayers, and visit temples dedicated to Lord Narasimha. The festival holds great importance, especially among Vaishnavites, who revere Narasimha as a symbol of courage, protection, and the triumph of good over evil.
Devotees chant hymns and recite prayers dedicated to Lord Narasimha, seeking his blessings for spiritual growth, protection from adversities, and the removal of obstacles in their lives. The day is also marked by elaborate rituals and ceremonies conducted at temples, including abhishekam (sacred bathing) of the deity, alankaram (decorating the idol), and bhajans (devotional songs).
Narasimha Jayanti serves as a reminder of the divine incarnation of Lord Narasimha, who incarnated to vanquish the demon king Hiranyakashipu and protect his devotee Prahlada. It symbolizes the victory of righteousness and the fulfillment of devotees’ prayers and aspirations.