Narmada Jayanti is a special Hindu festival that celebrated the manifestation of the sacred Narmada River on the Earth. This river is one of the holiest in India and flows mainly through Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. Devotees believe that the Narmada River is a goddess who brings purity, prosperity and protection. In 2025, Narmada Jayanti will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 4th. The festival takes place on Saptami Tithi (the seventh day) of Shukla Paksha in the Magha month of the Hindu calendar.
Date and Timings of Narmada Jayanti 2025
- Saptami Tithi Begins: February 4, 2025, at 04:37 AM
- Saptami Tithi Ends: February 5, 2025, at 02:30 AM
Why is Narmada Jayanti Celebrated?
Narmada Jayanti is celebrated to honor the birth anniversary of sacred Narmada River, which is believed to be a goddess in Hinduism. Devotees consider the river divine and believe that bathing in its water cleanses sins and brings purity purity, prosperity and protection. Special prayers, rituals and environmental activities take place to show gratitude and raise awareness about preserving the river for future generations.
Significance of Narmada River
The Narmada River is considered one of the holiest rivers in India. It is believed that taking a dip in its waters washes away sins and brings spiritual blessings. Unlike the Ganges, where flowing water is considered sacred, in the case of Narmada, even the stones (Shiva Lingams known as Banalingas) found on its banks are worshipped.
According to Hindu beliefs, the river is a divine manifestation of Goddess Narmada, who was created by Lord Shiva. Devotees worship her to attain peace, prosperity and liberation from past sins.
Rituals Performed at Narmada Jayanti 2025
- Holy Bath (Snan): Taking a dip in the Narmada River is the most important ritual of Narmada Jayanti. People gather at riverbanks in places like Omkareshwar, Maheshwar and Hoshangabad to bathe in the sacred water. This is believed to bring divine blessings.
- Puja and Offerings: After bathing, devotees offer milk, honey, flowers and incense to the river as a sign of respect. Temples near the Narmada organize special prayers and ceremonies. Devotees sing devotional songs and chant mantras in praise of Narmada Mata.
- Fasting: Many people observe a fast (vrat) on this day. Some do not eat anything, while others avoid specific foods. Fasting is believed to bring spiritual growth and inner peace.
- Environmental Protection: Since rivers are important for life, people use this occasion to spread awareness about keeping the Narmada clean. Volunteers and organization clean-up drives, tree-planting programs, and awareness campaigns to protect the environment.
How Narmada Jayanti is Celebrated?
This festival is mainly celebrated in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra. Thousands of devotees visit Omkareshwar, Maheshwar and Hoshangabad to take part in the rituals. The celebrations include processions, kirtans (devotees singing) and cultural programs.
In Gujarat, people along riverbanks also celebrate by offering prayers, lighting lamps and taking a holy dip. The Statue of Unity, near the Narmada River, adds to the importance of the festival in Gujarat.