Valmiki Jayanti, also known as Pargat Diwas, is celebrated every year to honour Maharishi Valmiki, the revered sage who wrote the Ramayana — one of the most important epics in Hinduism. He is remembered as the Adi Kavi, or the first poet, for introducing the art of Sanskrit poetry. The day celebrates his life, wisdom, and teachings about truth, compassion, and social equality.
In 2025, Valmiki Jayanti will be observed on Tuesday, October 7, which falls on the Purnima (Full Moon Day) in the month of Ashwin according to the Hindu lunar calendar.
As per Drik Panchang:
Devotees will celebrate the occasion on October 7, performing prayers and special rituals in honour of the sage.
Maharishi Valmiki was the revered author of the Ramayana, which contains nearly 24,000 verses spread across seven sections called Kandas. This timeless epic tells the story of Lord Rama and continues to guide millions of people in their spiritual journey.
Valmiki was a contemporary of Lord Rama, and as the story goes, when Goddess Sita was exiled from Ayodhya, she found shelter in Valmiki’s ashram. There, she gave birth to Luv and Kush, who were raised and educated by the sage. He also taught them the Ramayana, making Valmiki both its author and first storyteller.
Before becoming a sage, Valmiki’s name was Ratnakar. In his early life, he was a highway robber who attacked travellers to provide for his family. One day, he met Sage Narada, who questioned his actions and helped him realise the wrongs he was committing.
Deeply moved, Ratnakar gave up violence and began meditating on the name of Lord Rama. His penance continued for many years, and during that time, ant hills (valmikas) formed around his body. When he finally emerged from meditation, he was spiritually reborn as Valmiki, meaning “the one who came out of the ant hill.”
This powerful transformation symbolises that no one is beyond redemption, and with faith and repentance, anyone can walk the path of righteousness.
Valmiki Jayanti holds deep spiritual and social importance. It reminds people that anyone can change their life for the better, no matter their past. Maharishi Valmiki’s story is a message of transformation, forgiveness, and devotion.
He is also remembered for his teachings on equality and humanity. Valmiki gave shelter to Goddess Sita after she left Ayodhya, and he raised her twin sons Luv and Kush, teaching them the Ramayana. His contribution not only shaped Hindu literature but also promoted the idea of justice and compassion for all.
Maharishi Valmiki’s life teaches that change is possible through self-realisation. His journey from a robber to a saint shows the power of repentance and devotion. His writings highlight that righteousness (dharma) and truth always lead to peace and harmony.
His teachings continue to inspire people from all backgrounds to follow a path of honesty, equality, and compassion.
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