Ramakrishna Jayanti 2025: Date, Significance, Puja Vidhi & Celebration Guide

In 2025, Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa's birth anniversary is celebrated on Saturday, March 1st . Sri Ramakrishna, born in 1836, inspires seekers to seek truth, love, and devotion through his universal spirituality. His profound wisdom and realization of the divine in all forms make Sri Ramakrishna's teachings timeless and relevant. His life exemplifies the harmony of different spiritual paths.

Millions of people worldwide experience spiritual awakening on Ramakrishna Jayanti. In temples and spiritual centers, devotees meditate, chant hymns, and contemplate his message of unity and divine love. This lucky day reminds us that faith can transform life and let us experience the divine everywhere. As the world prepares to celebrate this sacred day, we can explore Sri Ramakrishna's teachings and embrace his vision of a spiritually enriched and harmonious life.

Significance & Importance of Ramakrishna Jayanti

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa (1836–1886 C.E.), revered as one of the greatest spiritual leaders of India, was born on Thursday, February 18, 1836, in the humble village of Kamarpukur, located in the Hooghly district of West Bengal, India. His birth took place in a devout Brahmin family that, despite its poverty, was deeply rooted in religious practices and unwavering faith. Named Gadadhar Chattopadhyay by his parents, Sri Ramakrishna would later rise to become a luminary who inspired countless seekers of truth with his profound spiritual insights and teachings.

From an early age, Ramakrishna exhibited an extraordinary inclination toward spirituality. He eventually became the priest of the Dakshineswar Kali Temple, a renowned shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali on the banks of the Ganga River near Kolkata. It was at Dakshineswar that Sri Ramakrishna experienced mystical visions and attained the highest states of spiritual realization through intense devotion and meditative practices. His profound connection with Goddess Kali became the cornerstone of his spiritual journey, earning him a reputation as an enlightened master capable of perceiving the divine in every form. Among his devotees, he became famously known as Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, a title signifying the supreme swan of spiritual wisdom.

Ramakrishna's life was deeply intertwined with that of his wife, Sarada Devi, who not only supported him but also became his spiritual counterpart. Sarada Devi herself is revered as the Holy Mother and was instrumental in carrying forward Ramakrishna’s spiritual legacy. Together, they exemplified the harmony between worldly duties and spiritual pursuits, setting an ideal for married life steeped in mutual respect and divine understanding.

One of Sri Ramakrishna’s most famous disciples, Swami Vivekananda, played a pivotal role in spreading his teachings globally. Inspired by Ramakrishna’s universal vision of spirituality and his emphasis on the unity of all religions, Swami Vivekananda founded the Ramakrishna Math and the Ramakrishna Mission. These institutions have since become beacons of service, spirituality, and education, working tirelessly for the welfare of humanity. The headquarters of this movement, Belur Math, located on the banks of the Ganga in West Bengal, remains a spiritual and cultural hub, attracting seekers and devotees from around the world.

Sri Ramakrishna’s teachings emphasized that all paths lead to the same divine reality and that religious harmony is the cornerstone of spiritual progress. He taught through simple parables and his own life experiences, making profound spiritual truths accessible to people from all walks of life. His philosophy, rooted in direct experience rather than mere intellectual understanding, continues to inspire millions to seek truth, live harmoniously, and serve others selflessly.

The life and legacy of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa remain timeless, reminding humanity of the infinite possibilities of spiritual realization, the unity of all faiths, and the transformative power of devotion and service.

History of Ramakrishna Jayanti Festival

The celebration of Ramakrishna Jayanti, honoring the birth anniversary of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, has its roots in the profound devotion of his disciples and the far-reaching influence of his teachings. Although Sri Ramakrishna was born on February 18, 1836 , the formal observance of his birth anniversary as a festival began after his passing in 1886 , spearheaded by his disciples, most notably Swami Vivekananda , who played a pivotal role in institutionalizing the tradition.

Early Celebrations

After Sri Ramakrishna’s passing, his disciples were deeply inspired to preserve and propagate his teachings. The founding of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission by Swami Vivekananda in 1897 became a turning point in formalizing the celebrations of Ramakrishna Jayanti. The Math and Mission organized events to mark his birth anniversary, emphasizing his message of universal spirituality, religious harmony, and selfless service. These initial celebrations included simple rituals, devotional songs, and discussions on his teachings, with an aim to inspire followers to embody his ideals.

Growth and Expansion of Celebrations

As the Ramakrishna Math and Mission expanded its reach, the observance of Ramakrishna Jayanti grew in scale and significance. The celebrations became centered at Belur Math , the headquarters of the Math and Mission, situated on the banks of the Ganga in West Bengal. Over time, the festival transformed into a grand occasion, attracting devotees from across India and the world. The day typically begins with mangala arati (early morning prayers) at dawn, followed by meditation, chanting of Vedic hymns, and special pujas dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna. Discourses on his life and teachings are delivered to inspire devotees to practice his ideals in their daily lives.

Beyond Belur Math, Ramakrishna Jayanti began to be celebrated at temples, ashrams, and spiritual centers worldwide, particularly in countries where the Ramakrishna Mission established a presence, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and various parts of Asia and Africa. These celebrations include multi-faith prayer gatherings, reflecting Sri Ramakrishna’s emphasis on the unity of all religions.

Recorded Traditions and Significance

Historical records show that Ramakrishna Jayanti was initially celebrated primarily by monastic members and close devotees of the Math. Over the decades, the festival gained widespread popularity, evolving into a public event attended by people from all walks of life, irrespective of caste, creed, or religion. The ‘Jayanti Mahotsav,’ as it is often called, includes bhajans (devotional songs), the distribution of prasad (sanctified food), and charitable activities such as feeding the poor and offering free medical services—practices deeply aligned with Sri Ramakrishna’s emphasis on compassion and service.

Modern Celebrations

Today, Ramakrishna Jayanti is celebrated globally, with Belur Math serving as the focal point. The rituals have grown more elaborate, including processions, cultural programs, and reading from texts like the Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna , which encapsulates his teachings. The festival also emphasizes service to humanity, as branches of the Mission organize various welfare activities, including educational seminars, blood donation camps, and food distribution drives. These practices resonate with Sri Ramakrishna’s belief that serving others is a way to serve God.

Legacy of the Celebration

The enduring popularity of Ramakrishna Jayanti lies in the timeless relevance of Sri Ramakrishna’s teachings. Over the years, the festival has evolved from a simple commemoration of his birth to a vibrant celebration of spirituality, selfless service, and the unity of all faiths. The recorded history of its celebration reflects how his life and message continue to inspire millions worldwide, making Ramakrishna Jayanti not just an occasion of homage but a call to embody his ideals in everyday life.

Festival Date, Time, Muhurat & Tithi

Ramakrishna Jayanti will be observed on Saturday, March 1st, 2025.

189th Birth Anniversary of Ramakrishna Paramahansa.

Key Timings for Ramakrishna Jayanti 2025:

• Dwitiya Tithi Begins - 03:16 AM on Mar 01, 2025 (IST)
• Dwitiya Tithi Ends - 12:09 AM on Mar 02, 2025 (IST)

Note: Devotees begin their Ramakrishna Jayanti rituals at sunrise, making it a key time for the day's observances. Sunrise and sunset vary by region and date due to India's geographical diversity. For exact timings, refer to local astronomical data.

How to celebrate Ramakrishna Jayanti

Here are simple yet profound meaningful ways to celebrate Ramakrishna Jayanti and honor the life and teachings of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa:

Begin with Prayers and Meditation

Start the day with a holy bath and dedicate time to meditation and prayer. Focus on Sri Ramakrishna’s teachings of devotion, self-realization, and harmony. Chant mantras such as “Om Hreem Sri Ramakrishnaya Namaha” or read his teachings to create a serene and spiritual atmosphere.

Perform Puja and Offerings

Set up a clean and decorated altar with an image or idol of Sri Ramakrishna. Offer flowers, fruits, sweets, and light a diya (lamp) to honor him. Sing bhajans (devotional songs) and read from the Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna to reflect on his life and message.

Participate in Temple or Ashram Events

Visit nearby Ramakrishna Math, ashrams, or temples, which organize special prayers, aarti, and spiritual discourses. Major celebrations at Belur Math include chanting of Vedic hymns, devotional singing, and community events that highlight his universal teachings.

Engage in Charitable Activities

Follow Sri Ramakrishna’s teaching of selfless service by participating in charitable acts. Distribute food, clothes, or essentials to those in need. Volunteer for community programs such as medical camps, educational seminars, or food drives to embody his principle of “service to humanity is service to God.”

Reflect on His Teachings

Spend time studying his teachings on the unity of all religions and the power of faith and devotion. Share his stories with family, especially children, to inspire them with his message. Reading works by Swami Vivekananda, his foremost disciple, can also deepen your understanding.

End with Evening Aarti and Gratitude

Conclude the day with a simple aarti, offering gratitude to Sri Ramakrishna for his blessings and teachings. Reflect on how his principles of love, simplicity, and service can guide your actions, inspiring you to lead a spiritually enriched life.

By celebrating in these ways, Ramakrishna Jayanti becomes not just an event but a spiritual renewal, connecting you to the timeless wisdom of Sri Ramakrishna and his message of universal harmony and devotion.

Ramakrishna Jayanti Festival Puja Vidhi (Puja Procedure)

The puja performed on Ramakrishna Jayanti is a spiritual act to honor the life, teachings, and legacy of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa .

Follow this step-by-step procedure to conduct the puja at home or in a temple:

Preparation for the Puja

• Clean the Puja Space : Begin by thoroughly cleaning the area where the puja will be performed.
• Create a Sacred Altar : Place a picture or idol of Sri Ramakrishna on a clean, elevated platform. If possible, decorate the altar with fresh flowers, especially marigold and lotus, which are considered auspicious.
• Prepare the Puja Items : Gather all necessary items, including flowers, incense sticks, a diya (lamp), camphor, fruits, sweets, a bell, and sacred water ( Gangajal ). You can also include a copy of the Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna or other related texts.

Purification and Invocation

• Self-Purification : Take a holy bath early in the morning to purify yourself physically and mentally. Wear clean, traditional attire, preferably in light colors such as white or yellow.
• Sanctify the Space : Sprinkle a few drops of Gangajal in the puja area and light incense sticks to purify the surroundings.
• Invocation (Dhyanam) : Sit in front of the altar, close your eyes, and meditate on Sri Ramakrishna’s image. Invoke his presence by chanting: “Om Hreem Sri Ramakrishnaya Namaha” or any other mantra dedicated to him.

Offerings and Rituals

• Lighting the Diya and Incense : Light a diya (oil lamp) and place it on the altar, symbolizing the light of wisdom. Offer incense sticks and wave them in a clockwise motion before the image or idol.
• Flower Offering (Pushpanjali) : Offer fresh flowers to Sri Ramakrishna while reciting: “Om Pushpani Samarpayami” This signifies surrendering your devotion at his feet.
• Naivedya (Food Offering) : Prepare simple food offerings such as fruits, sweets, poha , or makhan mishri (butter and sugar). Place the offerings on a clean plate and present them to the deity, symbolizing gratitude and devotion.
• Reading or Recitation : Read excerpts from the Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna or narrate his life stories, focusing on his teachings of love, devotion, and the unity of all religions.

Devotional Songs and Chanting

Sing bhajans or hymns dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna, such as:

“Jai Ramakrishna, Jai Ramakrishna, Jai Jai Ramakrishna.”

Chant “Om Ramakrishnaya Namaha” to deepen the spiritual atmosphere.

Aarti (Offering of Light)

Perform the aarti by lighting camphor on a plate or using a ghee lamp. Move the lamp in a circular motion in front of the image or idol of Sri Ramakrishna while ringing a bell or softly clapping your hands.

Sing the Ramakrishna Aarti:

“Khandana Bhava Bandhana Jag Vandan Vandita...”

Prayers for Blessings

After completing the rituals, offer a heartfelt prayer to Sri Ramakrishna, seeking his blessings for spiritual growth, harmony, and guidance in life. Pray for the well-being of your family, community, and the world.

Distribution of Prasad

After the puja, distribute the naivedya (offered food) as prasad to family members, friends, or devotees. Sharing the prasad symbolizes the sharing of divine blessings and grace.

Service and Reflection

Conclude the puja by engaging in an act of kindness or service, such as feeding the poor or donating to a charitable cause. Reflect on Sri Ramakrishna’s teachings, and take a moment to express gratitude for his guidance and inspiration.

By performing this puja with sincerity and devotion, you can honor Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa’s legacy and invite his divine blessings into your life. This ceremony not only pays tribute to his teachings but also serves as a reminder of the spiritual ideals he embodied.

Ramakrishna Jayanti Puja Mantra

Dhyan Mantra (Meditation Mantra)

Recite this mantra to meditate on the image of Sri Ramakrishna and invoke his divine presence:

'Om Hreem Sri Ramakrishnaya Namaha'

Meaning : Salutations to Sri Ramakrishna, the embodiment of divine wisdom and grace.

Ramakrishna Jayanti Vrat Vidhi (Fasting Procedure)

Observing a fast on Ramakrishna Jayanti is a meaningful way to honor the spiritual legacy of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and seek his blessings for inner growth and harmony.

The fast begins with a morning prayer and mental resolve ( sankalp ) to dedicate the day to spiritual practices and self-discipline. After waking up early, devotees take a holy bath, wear clean clothes, and purify their minds and surroundings. Sitting in front of a decorated altar with Sri Ramakrishna’s image, devotees take a vow to observe the fast with sincerity, offering prayers for spiritual progress and universal harmony.

During the day, devotees typically refrain from consuming grains, salt, and heavy foods. A phalahar vrat (fruit-based fast) is commonly observed, allowing fruits, milk, and water. Some devotees follow a nirjala vrat (waterless fast) to deepen their spiritual discipline. While fasting, devotees engage in spiritual activities like chanting mantras, singing bhajans , and reading from the Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna or other scriptures. Meditating on Sri Ramakrishna’s teachings about love, devotion, and the unity of all faiths enhances the spiritual significance of the fast.

The fast is broken the next day after performing a final prayer, offering food to Sri Ramakrishna, and consuming the prasad . Many devotees conclude the vrat with an act of charity, such as feeding the poor or donating to a good cause, reflecting Sri Ramakrishna’s emphasis on selfless service.

Observing the Ramakrishna Jayanti Vrat is not merely an act of devotion but also a way to align oneself with his ideals of simplicity, compassion, and spiritual enlightenment.

Ramakrishna Jayanti Vrat Katha (Traditional Fasting Story)

The Ramakrishna Jayanti Vrat Katha recounts the extraordinary life of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, a mystic who illuminated the path of divine truth and spiritual harmony. Observing this vrat while listening to his story inspires devotees to embrace his teachings of love, devotion, and universal unity.

Born on February 18, 1836, in the serene village of Kamarpukur, West Bengal, Sri Ramakrishna’s life was destined to guide humanity toward the divine. His parents, Kshudiram and Chandramani Devi, were deeply spiritual, known for their unwavering devotion. Before his birth, Chandramani Devi experienced a divine vision in which Bhagwan Vishnu assured her that her son would be a messenger of God. This auspicious event foretold the arrival of a soul who would transform the spiritual fabric of the world.

As a child, Sri Ramakrishna exhibited a natural affinity for spirituality. He would enter profound trances while admiring nature or participating in devotional rituals, leaving those around him in awe. These early signs hinted at his deep connection with the divine. Later, as a young man, he became the priest at the Dakshineswar Kali Temple, where his devotion to Goddess Kali reached unparalleled heights. Immersing himself in worship, he experienced divine visions and ecstatic states of bliss, as if the Goddess herself was revealing her boundless love and power to him.

Sri Ramakrishna’s life took on a universal dimension as he sought to understand God through various religious paths. He practiced Christianity, Islam, and multiple sects of Hinduism, experiencing the same divine presence in each. Through these experiences, he realized and taught that all religions are different roads leading to the same ultimate truth. His life became a living testament to the idea that unity, love, and devotion transcend all boundaries of faith.

The katha of Ramakrishna inspires devotees to observe the vrat with sincerity and devotion. Fasting on this sacred day, while meditating on his teachings, is believed to cleanse the heart and mind, bringing spiritual clarity and harmony. The day encourages not only personal devotion but also selfless service to others, a value Sri Ramakrishna upheld throughout his life. Acts of kindness, such as feeding the hungry or helping the needy, are seen as the highest form of worship, reflecting his message of compassion and love.

This sacred story reminds us that Sri Ramakrishna’s teachings are timeless, urging us to seek the divine in every aspect of life. Observing the Ramakrishna Jayanti vrat becomes a celebration of his legacy, inviting devotees to walk the path of simplicity, truth, and universal love.

Puja Utensils, Essentials

Rudra Centre brings an extensive collection of Puja Articles which caters to all that is required for daily and special Puja Vidhis. We offer variants of designs and sizes in each category. The list includes handcrafted Puja Mandirs, Puja Pedestals, offering Bowls, Panchpatra, intricately carved Puja Thalis, Abhishek Vessels, in different materials, Pure Silver/German Silver articles like Kalash, set of Shodash Upachara and Several other Puja Articles, which we deliver at your doorstep.

Visit the complete collection

Conclusion

Ramakrishna Jayanti is far more than a day of remembrance; it is a celebration of a life that transcended boundaries and illuminated the path to the divine for countless seekers. On this special day, devotees come together to honor Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, not just as a spiritual figure but as a guiding light of love, unity, and harmony. Through heartfelt prayers, melodious hymns, fasting, and acts of kindness, the occasion becomes a vibrant expression of devotion and joy. What makes this celebration truly inspiring is its ability to connect people to Sri Ramakrishna’s universal teachings, which resonate across time and cultures. Whether it is his message of unity among all religions or his emphasis on selfless service, his ideals remain as relevant today as they were over a century ago. As devotees sing his praises and reflect on his wisdom, the day becomes a chance to rekindle the divine spark within and find harmony in our lives.