Bhadrakali Jayanti 2025

Bhadrakali Jayanti is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth anniversary of Goddess Bhadrakali. This festival is observed on the ‘ekadashi’ (11th day) of the Krishna Paksha (the dark fortnight of the moon) in the month of ‘Jyeshta’ in the Hindu calendar, which corresponds to May or June in the Gregorian calendar. The word ‘Bhadra’ means ‘good’ in Sanskrit, and it is believed that worshipping the Goddess on this day ensures her protection over the good. In some regions of India, this day is also known as ‘Apara Ekadashi,’ and in Orissa, it is called ‘Jalakrida Ekadashi.’

Mythological Significance

According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Bhadrakali appeared from the hair of Lord Shiva when he became angry after learning about the death of Goddess Sati. The goddess appeared to kill Daksh Prachapati, the father of Goddess Sati. The main purpose of his appearance was to destroy all the demons on earth. Bhadrakali Jayanti is an important day for Hindus and is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country. It is especially important for Arya Saraswat Brahmins, with notable celebrations in the Indian states of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir.

Importance of Bhadrakali Jayanti

The significance of Bhadrakali Jayanti is mentioned in the ‘Nilmat Purana’ or ‘Vitasta Mahatmya’. Worshipping Goddess Kali on this day is believed to help devotees overcome all obstacles in their lives. Devotees believe that by offering prayers to Goddess Bhadrakali, all horoscope problems, including ‘Grah Dosha,’ can be resolved. Additionally, it is believed that worshipping on this day can fulfill eleven desires, as Bhadrakali Jayanti falls on Krishna Paksha Ekadashi. When the festival falls on a Tuesday or during the ‘Revati’ Nakshatra, it is considered even more auspicious. If it coincides with the ‘Kumbh Mela,’ it gains even greater significance.

Rituals During Bhadrakali Jayanti

• Devotees worship Goddess Bhadrakali with deep devotion and dedication. They rise early in the morning, complete their morning rituals, and wear black clothes, which are considered favorable on this day. The idol of Bhadrakali Mata is placed in the worship area and given a sacred bath with water, milk, sugar, honey, and ghee, known as ‘Panchamrita Abhishek.’ After the bath, the idol is dressed appropriately. Offering coconut water to the Goddess is also considered auspicious. This is followed by Chandan Puja and Bilva Puja.
• The main prayers begin at noon, with several Devi Mantras recited to please Goddess Bhadrakali and seek her blessings. In the evening, devotees visit temples dedicated to Goddess Kali, participate in the puja, and engage in other rituals held in her honor.
• Bhadrakali Jayanti is a festival that brings devotees together in their worship and celebration of Goddess Bhadrakali, seeking her protection and blessings for a prosperous and obstacle-free life.