“Parashurama Jayanti: Celebrating the Legacy of Lord Parashurama”

“Parashurama Jayanti” is a very important day in Hindu Dharma that celebrates the divine birth of Lord Vishnu’s sixth avatar, i.e. Lord Parashuram. According to Hindu Calendar, it occurs on the third day i.e. Trithiya of the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) in the Hindu month of Vaishakha. As per the Gregorian Calendar, it is more likely to come in the month of either April or May. This year, we are commemorating the divine festival of “Parashurama Jayanti” on the ‘10th May ’24.’

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

Parashurama Jayanti on Friday, 10 May ’24

• Tritiya Tithi Begins - 04:17 AM on 10 May ’24
• Tritiya Tithi Ends - 02:50 AM on 11 May ’24

Importance of “Parashurama Jayanti”:

As Lord Parashurama is one of the divine incarnations of Shri Hari Vishnu, this propitious occasion of “Parashurama Jayanti” holds immense importance for Hindu people, especially Vaishnavas, i.e. the devotees of Lord Vishnu.

The word “Parashurama” has been derived from the conjugation of two Sanskrit words: “Parashu” meaning ‘axe’ & “Rama” for Prabhu Shri Rama Chandra. Hence, the name Parashurama literally stands for ‘Rama with the axe.’ In Vedic texts as well, Lord Parashurama has been mentioned holding an axe, a symbolized weapon of truth, courage and the destruction of vanity or pride, in his hands.

The significance of this divine occasion of “Parashurama Jayanti” increases even more as Hindu Shastras say that Lord Parashurama has descended on the earth on this day to prevent it from the extremely increasing cruelty and violence of Kshatriyas. As per ‘Sangraha Parva’, it is believed that he waged twenty-one (21) generations of Kshatriyas to restore Dharma and righteousness in the world. And since then onwards, he received the title of “Protector of Dharma.”

Some Vedic texts also mention that he filled the blood of Kshatriyas’ 21 generations in five pools that are collectively known by the name “Samantha Panchaka” (Sanskrit: समंत पञ्चक) which are considered holy even today after ages.

Legends related to Lord Parashurama:

In Hindu Shastras, there are lots of legends related to Lord Parashurama.

One of them says that he was born to Renuka and Jamadagni, one of the Saptarishis. Just like every parent, Lord Parashurama was also epitome of devotion and love for the couple.

Another legend related to him says that:

Once Jamadagni, Lord Parashurama’s father, got into an argument with Renuka. After that, he ordered Parashurama in anger to kill his mother. Without even thinking twice, Parashurama instantly killed his mother on his father's one statement. Then, Jamadagni got very impressed by the obedience of Parashurama and hence he asked him for a boon. Quickly, Parashurama requested his father to bring her mother back to life, he uttered the word “Mother”/ “Maa.” Upon his request, Jamadagni brought back Renuka’s breath. Parashurama’s parents were truly impressed with his wisdom, sincerity, and love towards them.

There's one more interesting story related to the destruction of Kshatriyas’ twenty-one (21) generations by Lord Parashurama:

Once upon a time, there lived a very powerful king named Kartavirya Arjuna who ruled over an ancient empire called Haihayas, located in present-day Madhya Pradesh (MP). The pride of so much power and abilities made him cruel and arrogant that he started committing atrocities against humans, gods, and even Yakshas.

During his rule, one day, he visited the hermitage of Lord Parashurama’s parents. Being a humble sage couple, they welcomed Kartavirya warmly but the King, blinded by his pride, demanded something rude and offensive from them. On this, Jamadagni refused instantly as it was against his rules. Then, Kartavirya killed him & slaughtered their sacred cow, Kamadhenu, in anger.

After getting to know all this, Lord Parashurama got furious and vowed to take revenge on the King. Eventually, a battle took place between King Kartavirya and Parashurama in which the latter killed the former ferociously.

Lord Parashurama’s anger reached endless heights that he decided to get rid of the whole Kshatriyas’ clan. Scared of death, many kings fled to distant places to protect themselves from Parashurama’s wrath.

As Sage Kashyap Muni witnessed all this, he intervened and calmed Parashurama down. Later, he advised Parashurama to stop killing all the Kshatriyas and leave the earth to reside in mountains. Lord Parashurama followed his advice and went to reside on the Mahendra mountain. Hindu Shastras mention that he has been living there ever since.

This story serves as a reminder of the consequences of arrogance and the importance of humility and righteousness in our actions.

Celebrations on “Parashurama Jayanti”:

• In honor of “Parashurama Jayanti”, people observe a Sattvic fast, the day before the night and through the Tritiya day.
• Lord Vishnu is worshiped on this day with sandalwood, basil leaves, vermillion, flowers, and sweets (which are distributed after Puja as ‘prasad’).
• However Lord Parashurama is not widely worshiped as other avatars of Lord Vishnu such as Lord Rama of Shri Krishna, although there are several temples near Indian coast dedicated specifically to Lord Parashurama.
  For example: a major South Indian temple exists at Pajaka near Udupi, Karnataka, where people celebrate this propitious festival of “Parashurama Jayanti” with fervor.
• According to many beliefs, Lord Parashurama was born during ‘Pradosh Kala’, hence it's considered the best propitious time for “Parashurama Jayanti” celebrations on Tritiya tithi.
• As “Parashurama Jayanti” coincides with ‘Akshya Tritiya’, people take holy baths on this day, do daan, jaap, tap, homa (havan) and read holy scriptures. And as very truly said, “When you give with a genuine heart, even if you don't have much, you receive blessings and wealth in return.”
• At many places, some processions and cultural programs are also organized whose aim is to teach people about the virtues of Lord Parashurama & how to implement them in one's life.

Virtues/ Lessons from Lord Parashurama:

From the stories and life of Lord Parashurama, we can learn lots of lessons and imbibe them in our own lives. Let's have a look at some of them below:

• Uplifting Spiritual Connection:
  As the 6th avatar of Lord Vishnu, Parashurama exemplifies devotion and faith. We can learn to deepen our spiritual connection and seek blessings from higher powers for guidance, protection, and prosperity.
• Upholding Virtue:
  Parashuram Jayanti reminds us of the significance of righteousness and moral integrity in our lives. We should strive to embody virtues such as honesty, compassion, and integrity in all our actions, no matter how harsh the circumstances are.
• Humility:
  Despite his extraordinary powers, Parashurama remained humble and grounded throughout his life. We should learn to embrace humility, recognizing our strengths and limitations, and always treat others with respect and humility.
• Courage to Fight Injustice:
  Parashurama's resolve to confront injustice and oppression, the way he gave punishment to King Kartavirya for his bad deeds, teaches us the importance of standing up against wrongdoing. We should cultivate the courage to speak out against injustice and work towards creating a fair and equitable society.
• Selflessness and Sacrifice:
  Parashurama's selfless devotion to his father and his readiness to sacrifice personal desires for the greater good serve as a profound lesson. We should prioritize selflessness, service, and duty in our relationships and endeavors.
• Forgiveness and Redemption:
  Despite the injustices inflicted upon him and his family, Lord Parashurama eventually found the strength to forgive and move forward. His journey teaches us the power of forgiveness and redemption, reminding us to let go of grudges and embrace healing and reconciliation.
• Respecting Nature:
  As a sage and warrior, Parashurama had a deep reverence for nature and the environment. His life in the mountains symbolizes the importance of living in harmony with nature and respecting its sanctity. We should strive to be mindful of our impact on the environment and work towards its preservation and sustainability.

Interesting Beliefs about Lord Parashurama in Vedic texts & Hindu Shastras

• Unlike all other incarnations of Lord Vishnu, Lord Parashurama is still believed to exist on the earth (that's the main reason for him not being worshiped widely). Even, he's among one of the “Seven Chiranjeevis” revered by Hindus.
• In “Kalki Purana”, it has been mentioned that whenever the 10th and the last avatar of Lord Vishnu, i.e. Lord Kalki, will take birth on this earth in Kalyug, Lord Parashurama will serve as his ‘martial guru.’
  And it's not the first time when one avatar of Lord Vishnu will be meeting another as the 6th avatar of Lord Vishnu, i.e. Lord Parashurama, had already met Vishnu Ji’s 7th avatar, i.e. Lord Rama when he came to the betrothal ceremony of Sita and Lord Rama.

Conclusion:

Overall, the significance of “Parashurama Jayanti” extends beyond religious boundaries, transcending into a cultural celebration of valor and virtue. Lord Parashurama symbolizes the eternal struggle against injustice and the relentless pursuit of righteousness, inspiring generations to stand up against oppression and uphold the principles of truth and justice.

The legend of Lord Parashurama continues to resonate in Indian folklore, literature, and art, serving as a source of inspiration for countless devotees and admirers. His unwavering dedication to his mission, his mastery of warfare and wisdom, and his boundless compassion for the downtrodden serve as guiding beacons in a world often plagued by conflict and discord.

On Parashuram Jayanti, let us reflect on the timeless teachings of Lord Parashurama and strive to emulate his virtues in our daily lives. Let us pledge to stand up against injustice, to uphold righteousness, and to cultivate compassion and humility in our hearts. As we celebrate the birth anniversary of this divine incarnation, may we find strength, solace, and guidance in the eternal legacy of Lord Parashurama.

|| Shubh Parashurama Jayanti ||