Parashurama Dwadashi, a significant day in the Hindu calendar, will be observed on Thursday, May 8th . This sacred occasion celebrates the birth of Parashurama, the sixth incarnation of Bhagwan Vishnu, known for his valor, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to righteousness. Parashurama is often depicted with an axe ( parashu ) and is revered for his role in restoring balance by defeating corrupt rulers and protecting the righteous.
On this day, devotees engage in prayers, rituals, and fasting to honor his divine legacy. It’s a time to reflect on his teachings of justice, humility, and duty. Whether through spiritual practices or seeking inner strength, Parashurama Dwadashi offers a chance to connect with his powerful and enduring spirit.
Significance of Parashurama Dwadashi
Parashurama Dwadashi holds significant spiritual meaning, as it honors Bhagwan Parashurama, the sixth incarnation of Bhagwan Vishnu. This day is a reminder of the power of righteousness and justice in the world. Bhagwan Parashurama's life story teaches us the importance of standing up for dharma and truth even when facing tremendous challenges. His strength, determination, and commitment to justice are qualities that inspire devotees to uphold moral values and live with integrity. Observing Parashurama Dwadashi allows individuals to reflect on these virtues and seek inner strength to overcome the difficulties they may encounter in their own lives. Spiritually, Parashurama Dwadashi serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and discipline in our daily lives.
Bhagwan Parashurama was not only a warrior but also a disciplined individual, constantly striving for the protection of righteousness. On this day, devotees focus on strengthening their own faith in the divine and commit to living by higher principles. By fasting and participating in rituals, devotees purify both their bodies and minds, bringing them closer to spiritual growth. The day emphasizes the power of spiritual practices to overcome negative influences and reminds individuals to trust in divine protection and guidance on their life’s journey.
Story of Parashurama Dwadashi Festival
Parashurama Dwadashi is a festival that commemorates the birth of Bhagwan Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Bhagwan Vishnu, whose story is filled with courage, justice, and divine intervention. Born to the revered sage Jamadagni and his devoted wife Renuka, Parashurama was not just any warrior; he was a divine being with unmatched strength, wisdom, and a sense of unwavering duty. With his celestial axe (parashu) in hand, he embodied the perfect combination of both a brahmin's wisdom and a warrior's might, making him unique among the incarnations of Vishnu.
Parashurama’s life took a fateful turn when Kartavirya Arjuna, the powerful demon king, came to visit his father, Sage Jamadagni’s hermitage. After being treated with hospitality, the king, overcome by greed, stole Kamadhenu, the sacred cow that had the power to grant any wish. Kamadhenu was a gift from the gods to Jamadagni, and its theft was a grave injustice. Furious and heartbroken, Parashurama took up his divine axe and set out on a mission to confront Kartavirya Arjuna. In an epic battle that seemed impossible for a single warrior, Parashurama triumphed, slaying the demon king and restoring balance to the world. Yet, this victory would only mark the beginning of a long journey filled with sorrow and vengeance.
The story took another dark turn when Kartavirya Arjuna’s sons, filled with rage and desire for revenge, attacked Parashurama’s family, murdering Sage Jamadagni. Parashurama, grieved by the loss of his father, vowed to annihilate the corrupt and oppressive Kshatriya kings who had plagued the land. In his quest for justice, he embarked on a relentless campaign, wiping out the Kshatriya warriors twenty-one times over. His mission wasn’t driven by anger alone but by a divine purpose—to rid the world of evil and restore righteousness, no matter the cost.
Parashurama’s actions, though harsh, were always guided by the greater good. His fierce battle against injustice became a divine example of the power of righteousness over tyranny. He was not a man of personal vendettas, but a warrior chosen by Vishnu to rid the earth of the corrupt and protect the weak.
During the celebration of Parashurama Dwadashi devotees honor the legacy of Bhagwan Parashurama and reflect on his virtues. It is a time to remember his bravery, strength, and above all, his unwavering commitment to dharma—righteousness and justice. The day is marked by fasting, prayer, and rituals, allowing devotees to purify both body and soul, drawing inspiration from the divine lessons in Parashurama’s life.
In observing Parashurama Dwadashi, followers reflect on how they can embody his qualities of fearlessness in the face of adversity, discipline in their spiritual practices, and a relentless pursuit of justice. The festival encourages believers to stay steadfast in their quest for righteousness, just as Parashurama did, with the divine assurance that those who follow the path of truth will always find victory, no matter the challenges that lie ahead.
Festival Date, Time, Muhurat & Tithi
Parashurama Dwadashi will be observed on Thursday, May 8th, 2025.
Dwadashi Tithi (12th lunar day) of the Vaishakha month as per the lunar calendar.
Key Timings for Parashurama Dwadashi 2025:
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Parashurama Dwadashi Muhurat:
06:00 AM to 08:00 AM (IST)
Duration: 2 Hours - Dwadashi Tithi begins at 05:30 AM on May 8th (IST)
- Dwadashi Tithi ends at 06:30 AM on May 9th (IST)
Note: Sunrise and sunset vary by region and date due to India's geographical diversity. For exact timings, please refer to local astronomical data.
How to celebrate Parashurama Dwadashi
Celebrating Parashurama Dwadashi is a way to honor Bhagwan Parashurama’s birth and his divine role in protecting righteousness. Devotees observe this day with various spiritual practices that help them connect to the qualities of strength, justice, and duty that Bhagwan Parashurama embodies.
The day typically begins with early morning prayers and offerings to Bhagwan Parashurama. Devotees often take a ritual bath to purify themselves before beginning their worship. Afterward, they gather in temples or at home to offer prayers and perform puja. The puja includes chanting mantras dedicated to Bhagwan Vishnu or Parashurama, invoking his blessings for courage, protection, and moral strength. Some devotees also recite sacred texts or the Bhagavad Gita, reflecting on the importance of justice and righteousness, just as Parashurama did in his life.
Many people observe a fast on Parashurama Dwadashi, consuming only fruits or simple vegetarian food as a way of purifying the body and mind. Charity plays a key role on this day; offering food, clothes, or donations to the needy is considered auspicious, as it reflects Parashurama’s role as a protector of the weak and a defender of justice.
The day also offers an opportunity for meditation and reflection on the qualities that Parashurama represents—strength, discipline, and devotion to dharma. Devotees might engage in personal introspection or spend time in community gatherings discussing his teachings and stories. The overall atmosphere is one of reverence, with a focus on cultivating moral integrity and spiritual growth.
In some regions, special processions or public celebrations may take place, where people gather to honor Bhagwan Parashurama’s legacy through music, dance, and shared prayers. The day concludes with arti and a final round of prayers, thanking Bhagwan Parashurama for his blessings and guidance.
Parashurama Dwadashi Puja Vidhi (Puja Procedure)
The Parashurama Dwadashi Puja Vidhi is traditionally conducted in the early hours of the day, starting with a purification ritual. Devotees first cleanse themselves by taking a bath, as purification is an important part of preparing for the worship. After this, they should wear clean clothes and create a sacred space for the puja, either in a temple or at home, with a clean altar or table.
The puja begins by invoking Bhagwan Ganesha to remove any obstacles in the worship and ensure that the ceremony proceeds smoothly. Following this, an image or idol of Bhagwan Parashurama is placed on the altar, and the devotee offers flowers, fruits, and incense to the deity.
The main part of the puja involves chanting mantras dedicated to Bhagwan Vishnu and Parashurama. One of the key mantras is the Parashurama Ashtakshara Mantra , which is recited with devotion, focusing on Bhagwan Parashurama’s virtues of strength, justice, and protection.
After the chanting, prayers are offered, seeking blessings for strength, protection, and the ability to uphold dharma (righteousness) in one's life. Devotees also reflect on Parashurama’s teachings, particularly his commitment to justice and the welfare of others.
It is customary to offer aarti at the end of the puja, while singing praises of Bhagwan Parashurama. Prasad (offering) is distributed among the family or devotees present, which could include fruits, sweets, or other offerings made during the puja.
The puja concludes with a prayer for Bhagwan Parashurama’s blessings of courage, wisdom, and the strength to follow the path of righteousness. The atmosphere remains peaceful and reflective, and the day is spent in contemplation, focusing on the divine qualities that Parashurama represents.
Parashurama Dwadashi Puja Mantra
The Parashurama Ashtakshara Mantra is a sacred mantra chanted during the rituals of Parashurama Dwadashi Puja. This mantra is recited to invoke his blessings for strength, righteousness, and protection.
'Om Parashuramaaya Namah'
(ॐ परशुरामाय नमः)
This powerful mantra can be repeated multiple times during the puja. It is believed to invoke Bhagwan Parashurama’s divine qualities of courage, wisdom, and the strength to overcome adversity.
Parashurama Dwadashi Vrat Vidhi (Fasting Procedure)
The Parashurama Dwadashi Vrat Vidhi begins with early morning cleansing, where devotees take a bath to purify themselves before starting the ritual. After bathing, they wear clean clothes and sit in a peaceful place, preferably in a quiet room or temple, to focus on the day’s spiritual practices.
During the day, devotees observe a fruit and water fast, where they refrain from eating regular food and consume only fruits, milk, or simple vegetarian food if necessary. The idea is to purify the body and focus on spiritual growth.
Some people may choose to do a complete fast and avoid all food and drink. The fast is observed with the intention of gaining strength, purity, and blessings from Bhagwan Parashurama.
Devotees also offer prayers and chant mantras dedicated to Bhagwan Parashurama throughout the day. The most common mantra is 'Om Parashuramaya Namah' , which can be repeated 108 times or more, depending on the devotee’s capacity. The chanting is believed to bring peace, strength, and protection to the devotee.
In the evening, after the fast is complete, devotees break their fast by consuming simple food, usually fruits or a light meal. The fast is concluded with a prayer of gratitude to Bhagwan Parashurama, asking for his blessings of wisdom, justice, and protection in life.
This vrat is a way to connect with the divine and seek the strength to live a life of righteousness, just as Bhagwan Parashurama did.
Parashurama Dwadashi Vrat Katha (Traditional Fasting Story)
According to the legend, once, Bhagwan Parashurama, after completing his mission of removing the corrupt and oppressive Kshatriya kings from the earth, decided to retire to a peaceful life. As part of his spiritual practices, he observed a strict fast to purify his body and mind. His fast was not just a physical act but a way of reinforcing his connection to the divine and cleansing himself of any remaining attachments to the material world.
One day, Bhagwan Vishnu, in his divine form, appeared before Bhagwan Parashurama while he was observing his fast. He asked Parashurama why he was performing such an intense spiritual practice. Parashurama explained that he was seeking purification and strength to continue his mission of protecting dharma (righteousness) in the world.
Bhagwan Vishnu, pleased with Parashurama’s devotion and discipline, blessed him with divine wisdom and eternal strength. He also assured him that his legacy would be one of justice and righteousness, and that his followers would always find strength and courage through devotion to him. He instructed Parashurama that the Dwadashi fast would become a sacred tradition for future generations, a way for devotees to purify themselves, seek divine blessings, and gain the strength to fight injustice.
Since then, devotees observe the Parashurama Dwadashi Vrat as a way to honor Bhagwan Parashurama and follow in his footsteps. By fasting, praying, and meditating on his virtues, they seek to gain the strength and wisdom to uphold dharma in their own lives, just as Bhagwan Parashurama did. The fasting procedure, which includes consuming only fruits or simple vegetarian food, is believed to purify the body and mind, making one more attuned to divine guidance and protection.
The story of Bhagwan Parashurama’s fast serves as a reminder that through devotion, discipline, and self-purification, one can receive divine blessings and the strength to overcome challenges in life. The Parashurama Dwadashi Vrat not only honors Bhagwan Parashurama but also reinforces the importance of righteousness, justice, and spiritual growth.
Puja Utensils, Essentials
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Swarna Parshuram Shaligram Shila
This sacred Shaligram embodies qualities such as bravery, willpower, and caution, qualities that Shri Parashurama himself represents. Placing the Swarna Parshuram Shaligram Shila in your home or workspace not only corrects Vastu imbalances but also attracts luck, wealth, and protection.
Parashuram Chalisa Paath
Bhagwan Parashuram Chalisa is a devotional hymn of 40 verses dedicated to Parashuram, the sixth incarnation of Bhagwan Vishnu. Reciting the Parashuram Chalisa is one of the best ways to worship and revere Bhagwan Parashuram. He is worshipped for power, success and victory. Conduct the Bhagwan Parashuram Chalisa and seek the blessings of health, wealth, protection and success.
Dashavatar Puja and Yajna
Dashavatar refers to the ten avatars or incarnations of Bhagwan Vishnu, the preserver and protector of the universe in Hinduism. Bhagwan Vishnu, one of the three supreme deities alongside Bhagwan Brahma (the creator) and Bhagwan Shiva (the destroyer), takes these avatars whenever the universe faces turmoil or is in danger. His divine manifestations descend on earth to restore cosmic order, protect humanity, and uphold dharma (righteousness).
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Conclusion
The Parashurama Dwadashi festival is more than just a day of rituals and prayers; it is a celebration of righteousness, justice, and divine strength. By honoring Bhagwan Parashurama, devotees are reminded of the power of courage and determination in the face of adversity, as well as the importance of standing up for what is right. The fast and prayers performed on this day offer a chance to purify the body and soul, fostering a deeper connection with the divine and reinforcing the values of dharma in our daily lives.
As we reflect on Bhagwan Parashurama’s unwavering commitment to truth, his legacy continues to inspire people to live with integrity, uphold justice, and protect the weak. The festival brings communities together, promoting spiritual growth and the collective pursuit of peace and righteousness. Celebrating Parashurama Dwadashi is about embracing the lessons from Bhagwan Parashurama’s life, making it a meaningful journey of inner strength, wisdom, and divine grace.
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