Narasimha Jayanti is a powerful Hindu festival that commemorates the divine manifestation of Lord Narasimha, the half-man, half-lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Celebrated on the 14th day (Chaturdashi) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Vaishakha, it symbolizes the ultimate victory of devotion and dharma (righteousness) over tyranny and adharma (evil).
This day is deeply revered by Vaishnavites and devotees of Vishnu across India and Nepal, who believe that remembering the Lord on this day blesses them with strength, protection, and freedom from fear.
Narasimha Jayanti 2025: Date & Timings (India)
- Date: Sunday, May 11, 2025
- Tithi Begins: May 10, 2025 at 5:29 PM
- Tithi Ends: May 11, 2025 at 8:01 PM
Puja Timings
- Madhyahna Sankalp Time: 11:17 AM to 1:55 PM on May 11
- Sayana Kala Puja Time: 4:33 PM to 7:12 PM on May 11
Fast Breaking (Parana)
- Parana Time: After 5:01 AM on May 12, 2025
Historical & Mythological Significance
The roots of Narasimha Jayanti lie in one of the most dramatic tales from the Bhagavata Purana:
- Hiranyakashipu, a demon king, was granted a boon by Lord Brahma that made him nearly invincible—he couldn’t be killed by man or beast, indoors or outdoors, during day or night, and with no weapon. Blinded by arrogance, he declared himself God and punished anyone who defied him.
- But his own son, Prahlada, was a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu. Despite repeated attempts to kill Prahlada, the boy’s faith never wavered.
- Finally, to protect his devotee and uphold cosmic order, Vishnu appeared as Narasimha—neither man nor beast. He emerged from a pillar at twilight (neither day nor night), dragged Hiranyakashipu to the threshold (neither indoors nor outdoors), and killed him with his claws (not a weapon), thus fulfilling every condition of the boon.
This divine episode represents the infinite creativity of the divine in restoring balance and protecting the righteous.
Rituals & Traditions
Narasimha Jayanti is observed with great devotion, especially in South India, parts of Maharashtra, Odisha, and Nepal. Here's how devotees celebrate this auspicious day:
1. Fasting (Vrat)
Devotees observe a strict fast—some go without food and water until evening (nirjala vrat), breaking it only after sunset and the appearance of stars.
2. Special Pujas and Abhishekam
Temples dedicated to Lord Narasimha perform abhishekams (ritual bathing of the deity) with milk, curd, honey, ghee, and holy water. The deity is then adorned with flowers, sandal paste, and new clothes.
3. Recitation of Scriptures
Devotees recite Narasimha Kavacham, Vishnu Sahasranamam, and chapters from the Bhagavata Purana recounting the Prahlada story. Chanting mantras like “Om Namo Bhagavate Narasimhaya” is believed to invoke divine protection.
4. Charity and Annadanam
Many observe the day with acts of kindness like feeding the poor, donating clothes, or organizing annadanam (food distribution) in temples.
5. Temple Celebrations
Major temples like the Ahobilam Temple (Andhra Pradesh), Simhachalam Temple (Visakhapatnam), and Yadagirigutta Temple (Telangana) hold grand processions, yajnas, and night-long bhajans to honor the Lord.
Spiritual Significance
Narasimha Jayanti goes beyond mythology—it is a call to awaken our inner courage. Just as Prahlada stood firm in the face of terror, we’re reminded to:
- Stand up for what’s right, no matter how powerful evil seems.
- Trust that divine help will come—even if it seems impossible.
- Cultivate unwavering bhakti (devotion) and shraddha (faith).
Interesting Facts
- Narasimha is one of the most powerful Ugra (fierce) avatars of Vishnu, yet he calms down only upon Prahlada’s request.
- The Ahobilam Temple is believed to be the exact place where Narasimha appeared.
- Devotees believe that chanting the Narasimha mantra protects from evil eye, black magic, and fear.
Need to Experience It?
If you’re spiritually inclined or curious about India’s mystical side, witnessing Narasimha Jayanti at a major temple is unforgettable. The fervent chants, glowing diyas, and intense spiritual energy create an atmosphere of divine transcendence.
Explore Narasimha Temples with Adotrip
Ahobilam | Simhachalam | Yadagirigutta | Melkote | Thiruvengadam
Plan Your Spiritual Sojourn
Adotrip Tip: May is a perfect time to combine your temple visit with scenic getaways in Andhra Pradesh or Karnataka. Our specially curated Spiritual Tours ensure comfort, safety, and spiritual immersion.
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad
- By Train: Well-connected via Indian Railways to Narasimha shrines
- By Road: Smooth connectivity from major South Indian cities
Contact Adotrip today to plan your Narasimha Jayanti pilgrimage.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Narasimha Jayanti 2025
Q1. When is Narasimha Jayanti in 2025?
A1. Narasimha Jayanti will be observed on Sunday, May 11, 2025. The Chaturdashi Tithi begins at 5:29 PM on May 10 and ends at 8:01 PM on May 11.
Q2. Why is Narasimha Jayanti celebrated?
A2. Narasimha Jayanti marks the appearance of Lord Narasimha, the fourth avatar of Lord Vishnu, who took the form of half-man, half-lion to destroy the demon king Hiranyakashipu and protect his devotee Prahlada, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
Q3. What rituals are performed on Narasimha Jayanti?
A3. Devotees observe fasting, perform special pujas, chant Vishnu mantras like “Om Namo Bhagavate Narasimhaya”, and read the Narasimha Kavacham. Temples conduct abhishekam, aarti, and distribute prasadam. The most auspicious time for puja is during Sayana Kala (evening).
Q4. Is fasting mandatory on Narasimha Jayanti?
A4. While not mandatory, many devotees observe a strict fast (nirjala vrat) to seek blessings, which is broken after sunset or the appearance of stars.
Q5. Which temples are famous for Narasimha Jayanti celebrations?
A5. Major temples include Ahobilam and Simhachalam in Andhra Pradesh, Yadagirigutta in Telangana, Melkote Narasimha Swamy Temple in Karnataka, and Narasimha temples in Tamil Nadu and Odisha, all known for grand rituals and spiritual gatherings on this day
