Parashurama Jayanti: 6th incarnation of Vishnu, Significance & Observances

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Devam naumi ramapathim ranapatum baswath kireedanchitham,
Kodandam sasaram karena dadhtatham vamena chanyena cha,
Aartha thrana patum kutaramasatham kandacchidam bhasuram,
Smasru prasphurithananam surathanum ramam sada saswatham

Parashurama Jayanti: Parashurama the sixth incarnation of Vishnu is the epitome of valor and devotion towards parents. Once his father, Jamadagni got angry with his wife Renuka and ordered Parashurama to murder her. Parashurama obeyed him and killed his mother. Contented with his act Jamadagni asked his son to ask for anything whatever he wanted. Parashurama asked to bring back his mother to life. It was Parashurama’s cleverness that brought back his mother to life again. In this way Parashurama proved his devotion to his father and mother.

Parashurama Jayanti:

Jamadagni and their Kama Dhenu cow were killed by a kshatriya king, Kartavirya Sahastrarjun. Thus Parashurama vowed to kill all the kshatriyas on this earth and make it free from the autocracy of the kshatriyas. All the kshatriyas fled away due to the terror of him and no one was left to protect this earth. So, Kashyap muni ordered Parashurama to leave the world. Parashurama went to mountain Mahendra and started to live there.

The birthday of Parashurama is celebrated on the 3rd day of Shukla Paksha of Vaishakh month. This day is also known as Parshu Rama Dwadashi and people fast on this day to be blessed with a son. According to Varah Puran, by keeping a fast on this day, the devotee enjoys his stay in Brahmiok and will be reborn to become a great king.

Akshaya Tritiya is another name for the birthday of Lord Parashurama. There is a strong belief that the merits gained by good acts on this day are forever. It is believed that Akshaya Tritiya marks the beginning of the Treta Yug.

Lord Parshuram Watercolor Painting: He is the descendant of Bhgu who defeats kings, and he is unconquerable like the mountain Kailsa and unbearable like the flames during the destruction. This Pencil Sketch pays honour to Lord Parashuram, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, and his invincible character. There are numerous stories that illustrate Lord Parashuram’s bravery and indignation. This magnificent painting depicts Lord Parshuram wielding the axe Vidyudabhi as if spearheading the demons of darkness and confusion. The artists depict his sacred clothing, which consists of a loincloth and a Rudraksha mala, with accuracy to highlight his dual nature as a warrior and a sage. This painting is a masterwork that will dispel the demons of unholy occurrences in the location where it is displayed.

Significance of Parshuram Jayanti:

Mythological Importance:

Lord Parshuram is believed to have rid the world of corrupt and unrighteous kings and restored Dharma (righteousness). He is also known for his immense strength and the divine weapon, the Parshu (axe), given to him by Lord Shiva.

Cultural Practices:

Devotees observe fasts, perform pujas (ritual worship), and chant mantras dedicated to Lord Parshuram. Temples dedicated to him are decorated, and special prayers and rituals are performed.

Regional Celebrations:

The festival is particularly significant in regions like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and parts of North and South India. Various community gatherings and cultural programs are organized to celebrate this day.

Hindus holds major part of population in India. With the revitalization of Hinduism after the medieval period, the birth day of Parashurama regained its importance. Except fasting, procession and satsang is also arranged in most of the towns of Northern India.

Bhagwan Parshuram Pencil Sketch – This Bhagwan Parshuram Pencil Sketch Painting by Noharika Deogade is a simple yet significant depiction of Lord Parshuram. It utilizes the unique style of pencil sketches, allowing artists to convey subtle details and evoke emotions through shades and lines. The simplicity of graphite on paper fosters creativity, enabling spontaneous expression. Versatile and accessible, pencil sketches serve as a foundational art form, capturing moments with a timeless, raw aesthetic that transcends technological trends.

Observances:

Fasting: Many devotees fast from sunrise to sunset, consuming only fruits and milk.
Temple Visits: Devotees visit temples, especially those dedicated to Lord Parshuram, and participate in special rituals and prayers.
Charity: Acts of charity and donations to the needy are common practices during this festival.
Recitation of Scriptures: Devotees read and recite scriptures such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata, where Lord Parshuram’s stories are mentioned.