“Hayagriva Jayanti”: Celebrating the Divine Guardian of Knowledge and Wisdom

"Hayagriva Jayanti", a celebration of divine wisdom and knowledge, is an auspicious Hindu observance to commemorate the birth anniversary of 'Lord Hayagriva.' As per Hindu calendar, it falls on the full moon day in Shravan month. This year, 'Hayagriva Jayanti' falls on the 19th August ’24.

As per “Drik Panchang”, the “tithi” for “Hayagriva Jayanti” in ’24 is as follows:

Hayagriva Jayanti on Monday, 19 August ’24

• Purnima Tithi Begins - 03:04 on 19 August ’24
• Purnima Tithi Ends - 23:55 on 19 August ’24

Importance of Hayagriva Jayanti in Hinduism:

Basically, Lord Hayagriva is a unique incarnation of Lord Vishnu who is often depicted with the head of a horse and the body of a human. It is believed that the sole purpose of this Avatar was to get back the stolen Vedas from the demons (Asuras). Hence in many Hindu shastras, Lord Hayagriva has been depicted as 'the guardian deity of the Vedas.'

Apart from Puranas, one can find the relevance of Lord Vishnu's 'Hayagriva' avatar in the Shanti Parva of Mahabharata as well.

The unique imagery of Lord Hayagriva with a horse's head signifies the power of knowledge and intellect transcending even the boundaries of species. The horse is often associated with strength, swiftness, and nobility, attributes that underscore the deity's role as the bestower of wisdom. Lord Hayagriva is also depicted holding the Vedas in his four hands, representing his guardianship over knowledge. This form of Vishnu stands as a symbol of divine grace and the source of all wisdom.

Hence on this auspicious occasion of 'Hayagriva Jayanti', the people engage in various rituals and prayers to seek his blessings for the ultimate intellect, understanding, and knowledge. Temples dedicated to Lord Hayagriva, particularly the Hayagriva Madhava Temple in Hajo, Assam, attract a large number of pilgrims during this time.

Hayagriva Jayanti as Upkarma Day for Brahmans:

Upakarma, celebrated by Brahmins, marks the ritualistic commencement of Vedic learning, symbolizing a fresh start in one's spiritual journey. It involves the ritualistic changing of the Upanayana thread and the performance of Shrauta rituals, underscoring the importance of Vedic traditions. The day is observed differently across regions; followers of Yajurveda celebrate Upakarma on Shravana Purnima, while Rigveda adherents observe it on Shravana Nakshatra day. In Tamil Nadu, it is known as Avani Avittam, and for those undergoing their first Upakarma, it is referred to as Thalai Avani Avittam. In Andhra Pradesh, the day is called Jandhyala Purnima.

The significance of Upakarma is deeply connected to Hayagriva Jayanti, which coincides with Shravana Purnima. Lord Hayagriva, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is believed to have restored the Vedas to Brahma, making this day auspicious for beginning the study of Vedas. The ritual also serves as a moment of gratitude to the ancient Rishis who imparted the knowledge of the Vedas to humanity. Following Upakarma, the next day is dedicated to Gayatri Japam, a day of intense spiritual practice. Those who follow Samaveda observe Upakarma on Hasta Nakshatra day during Bhadrapada month, which usually falls after the Yajur Veda and Rig Veda Upakarma.

Hayagriva Jayanti: A Celebration of Education and the Eternal Pursuit of Knowledge

One of the most significant aspects of Hayagriva Jayanti is its connection to education. Students and teachers come together to pay homage to the deity, seeking his blessings for success in their educational endeavors. It is believed that invoking Lord Hayagriva's grace can enhance one's memory, concentration, and understanding, making it an important occasion for anyone involved in the pursuit of knowledge.

In a world driven by technology and information, the relevance of Hayagriva Jayanti remains as significant as ever.

Hayagriva Jayanti carries a profound message – the importance of knowledge as a guiding light in one's life journey. The festival underscores the idea that true wisdom is not limited by form or appearance, and that divine grace can manifest in various ways. Lord Hayagriva's unique form reminds us to look beyond the surface and recognize the essence of wisdom, even in unconventional aspects.

Shubh Hayagriva Jayanti !!