Valmiki Jayanti 2024, celebrated on October 17, marks the birth anniversary of Maharishi Valmiki, the revered sage and author of the Ramayana.
Valmiki Jayanti, also known as Pragat Divas, is the celebration of the birth anniversary of Maharishi Valmiki, an ancient sage believed to be the composer of the Ramayana. Valmiki who is traditionally regarded as the author of the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana. The festival is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Ashvin, which usually falls in September or October according to the Gregorian calendar.
Valmiki holds an important place in Hindu culture as the first poet or Adikavi, and the Ramayana, which narrates the life of Lord Rama, is one of the greatest epics in Indian literature. On Valmiki Jayanti, people pay tribute to the sage by reading and reciting verses from the Ramayana, taking out processions and holding spiritual gatherings. Many devotees visit temples dedicated to Valmiki, especially in northern India, where his teachings and contributions are revered.
The festival also marks Valmiki’s transformation from a bandit to a revered sage through his devotion and meditation, symbolizing the power of austerity and righteousness.
Significance of Valmiki Jayanti:
Valmiki is credited with writing the epic Ramayana, which is composed of 24,000 verses and tells the story of Lord Rama’s life, his exile, the war with Ravana, and his eventual return to Ayodhya. The Ramayana is not just a story but also serves as a guide for values and morality in Hindu culture.
Maharishi Valmiki is considered the Adi Kavi or the first poet due to his pioneering contributions to Sanskrit literature and poetry.
His life represents transformation, as he was originally a robber named Ratnakara who later became a great sage after attaining enlightenment through meditation and the guidance of Narada Muni.
Celebrations: Processions are held in honour of Valmiki on this day and special prayers and rituals are performed at many temples dedicated to him, especially in North India.
Devotees read the Ramayana, sing hymns and tell stories from Valmiki’s life.
Valmiki temples are decorated and community gatherings are held where people discuss the lessons they learn from the Ramayana and the importance of Valmiki’s teachings.
Valmiki Jayanti is an occasion to reflect on his teachings about righteousness (dharma) and the power of repentance and spiritual devotion.