Sri Ramakrishna Birthday Celebrations

The birthday of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa is celebrated annually on the 9th day of the bright fortnight of the month of Phalguna (February-March) in the Hindu calendar. This is typically around late February to early March according to the Gregorian calendar. The day holds immense significance for the followers of the Ramakrishna tradition and the Ramakrishna Math and Mission.

    Key aspects include:

  1. Rituals:
    • Morning Arati and Puja to honor Ramakrishna.
    • Bhajans (devotional songs) and Satsangs (spiritual discourses) about his teachings.
    • Chandi Path (recitation of sacred texts) in some places.
  2. Processions: Devotees participate in cultural processions with pictures of Ramakrishna and chanting.
  3. Special Programs: Public talks and celebrations, often reflecting on his message of religious unity, self-realization, and the divine within all.
  4. Prasadam: Food offerings are distributed to devotees after rituals.
  5. Global Observance: Celebrations also occur at Ramakrishna Mission centers worldwide, with social services, lectures, and cultural events.
  6. Significance: It’s a time for spiritual reflection on Ramakrishna’s message of unity among all religions, the importance of self-realization, and devotion to God. His teachings, such as “Jiva is Shiva”, inspire compassion and spiritual growth.