Vivah Panchami - The Sacred Marriage of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita

"Vivah Panchami" is a Hindu festival that celebrates the marriage of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. As per the Vedic texts, Lord Rama had visited Janakpur, Goddess Sita’s birthplace, on the ‘Margashira’ Panchami. Hence as per Hindu Panchang, "Vivah Panchami" is celebrated on Panchami tithi (fifth day) of Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Margashirsha every year. According to the Gregorian Calendar, it corresponds to the month of either November or December.

This year, "Vivah Panchami" is on the 17th Dec. 2023.

As per Drik Panchang, the "tithi" for "Vivah Panchami" in the year 2023 is as follows:

• Panchami Tithi Begins - 08:00 PM on Dec 16, 2023
• Panchami Tithi Ends - 05:33 PM on Dec 17, 2023

 

Significance of "Vivah Panchami" in Hinduism:

In Hindi Dharma, "Vivah Panchami" holds immense importance as it celebrates the divine union of Maryada Purushottam Shree Rama & Mata Sita.

Actually, it finds its significance in Tulsidas Ji's Ramayana as: Lord Rama, believed to be the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, journeyed Janakpur Dham in Nepal on the Panchami tithi of Margashirsha month. During the Swayamvar ceremony of Goddess Sita, he accomplished the extraordinary feat of breaking Lord Shiva's bow (Dhanush), ultimately winning her hand in marriage.

To commemorate this divine marriage of Lord Rama & Mata Sita, "Vivah Panchami" is observed by the devotees.

Vivah Panchami not only celebrates the divine marriage of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita but also symbolizes the enduring friendship between India and Nepal. Janakpur, a deeply spiritual and historic city in Nepal, welcomes thousands of Indian visitors annually to commemorate the festival at the birthplace of Goddess Sita.

 

Legend behind "Vivah Panchami":

There is a very great legend behind the divine occasion of "Vivah Panchami" mentioned in Ramayana as well. It tells about the sacred union between Shri Ram & Mata Sita.

The story is as follows:

Once upon a time, a wise sage named Vishwamitra asked King Dasharath if Prince Ram could guard his special Yagna. Though the king was hesitant, he agreed. Ram, along with his brother Lakshman, accompanied Vishwamitra. After successfully completing the Yagna, they returned to Mithila.

In Mithila, Princess Sita's Swayamvar was organized by King Janak. The challenge was to lift and string a massive bow, but no one could do it. Then, Lord Rama went himself to lift it but the moment he touched the bow, it broke. Impressed, King Janak happily married Sita to Lord Ram.

Today, we celebrate Ram and Sita's marriage as a symbol of bravery, commitment, duty, and love. It all began with a journey, a powerful bow, and a love story that continues to inspire.

 

Rituals & Observances followed on "Vivah Panchami":

On "Vivah Panchami", the devotees follow the rituals wholeheartedly. Some of them are as follows:

• In India, people celebrate Vivah Panchami at Ram-Sita temples, but the most special celebrations happen in Ayodhya, where Lord Rama was born, and Janakpur in Nepal, the birthplace of Goddess Sita. Temples light up with lamps, and there's a beautiful ceremony where statues of the deities wear fancy jewelry and clothes. Everyone call it the 'Ram Vivah Utsav,' a grand social occasion celebrating the divine wedding.
• In Ayodhya, a grand procession known as "Shobha Yatra" is taken out, featuring idols of Rama and Sita adorned as bride and groom. The streets come alive with music, dance, and the enthusiasm of the devotees.
• "Vivah Prasang", the sacred Baal-Kand script, is read by the people.
• The devotees also listen to and read the great legend of Rama & Sita's marriage related to "Vivah Panchami."
• During "Vivah Panchami", people recite special prayers and sing songs praising the deities.
• Many also recite 'Ramacharitmanas.'
• There's also a storytelling performance called 'Ramleela' that shows the wedding story of Rama and Sita.
• Afterward, priests perform a special Puja for "Vivah Panchami", and the celebrations end with a ceremony called 'aarti' dedicated to Lord Rama. It's a time of joy, prayer, and sharing the beautiful tale of Ram and Sita.
• As part of the celebration, the people also take a special bath in famous lakes like 'Dhanushsagar,' 'Gangasagar,' and 'Argaza Pond.'
• A huge number of pilgrims visit many parts of India & other countries such as Nepal to be a part of the grand celebrations on "Vivah Panchami."

 

Vivah Panchami: A Day Steeped in Tradition, Where Marriages Take a "Pause"

Vivah Panchami holds immense significance in Hindu traditions, particularly in Mithilanchal and Nepal. Surprisingly, marriages aren't arranged on this day. The practice stems from the belief that Mata Sita's life, marked by sorrow and sacrifice, serves as a poignant reminder. Lord Rama's decision to part ways with a pregnant Mata Sita after 14 years of exile is a key event associated with Vivah Panchami. In reverence to this narrative, people avoid arranging marriages on this day, fearing that the ceremony might lead to a life as painful as Mata Sita's. It reflects a deep cultural respect and adherence to the symbolism embedded in the story of Rama and Sita.

 

Benefits of observing "Vivah Panchami":

Observing Vivah Panchami holds immense benefits such as:

Divine Blessings:

Observing Vivah Panchami is believed to attract divine blessings, particularly those associated with marital harmony and prosperity.

Cultural Reverence:

Participation in Vivah Panchami celebrations fosters a connection to cultural and religious roots, promoting a sense of tradition and community.

Spiritual Significance:

The day is considered spiritually significant, and engaging in rituals and prayers during this time is believed to bring spiritual upliftment and a sense of inner peace.

Symbolism of Love and Commitment:

The celebration of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita's union symbolizes love, commitment, and mutual respect in relationships, serving as an inspiration for devotees.

Tradition Preservation:

The observance of Vivah Panchami helps in preserving and passing down traditional customs and stories from generation to generation.

Cultural Exchange:

For those visiting places like Ayodhya and Janakpur, the festival provides an opportunity for cultural exchange, allowing people to experience and appreciate different customs and traditions.

 

Conclusion:

As we conclude this exploration of Vivah Panchami, may the timeless tale of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita continue to inspire love, devotion, and cultural unity. In celebrating this sacred union, let us carry forward the spirit of joy, commitment, and the rich traditions that define Vivah Panchami.

Wishing everyone a blissful Vivah Panchami filled with the warmth of tradition and the glow of spiritual connection.

|| Jai Siya Ram ||