Garuda Panchami | Garuda Panchami - Birth Anniversary of Garuda, the Supreme Devotee of Lord Vishnu

Important information

Garuda Panchami 2025
Tuesday, 29 July 2025
Panchmai Tithi Start : 28 July 2025 at 11:24 pm
Panchmai Tithi End : 29 July 2025 at 12:47 am

Garuda Panchami is an important festival celebrated to commemorate the birth of Garuda, the bird carrier and the supreme devotee of Lord Vishnu. This festival is celebrated on the fifth day of the bright half of the month of Shravan. Garuda is the son of Vinata and Kasyapa Muni and resides on the planet Salmadvipa, where he is constantly engaged in the worship of Lord Vishnu.

Garuda Bhagavan Stotra

This stotra is recited in honour of Garuda:

Garuda Bhagavan Stotra-Stobhasha Chandomayah Prabhuah
Rakshatva Ashesha-Krichchrebhyo Vishwaksenaah Swa-Namabhih

That is, Lord Garuda, the carrier of Lord Vishnu, is most revered, as he is as powerful as the Supreme Lord himself. He is the Veda personified and is worshipped by select verses. May He protect us from all dangerous situations, and may Lord Visvaksena, who is the Personality of Godhead, also protect us from all dangers by His holy names (Srimad Bhagavatam 6.8.29).

Importance of Garuda in Bhagavad Gita

Lord Krishna has said in the Bhagavad Gita - "Vainateyasha cha pakshinaam" meaning, "Among the birds I am Garuda." Garuda always carries Lord Vishnu on his back and is therefore considered the transcendental prince of all carriers.

Garuda in Vedic Literature

It is stated in the Vedic literature that the two wings of the transcendental bird Garuda are the two parts of the Samaveda known as Brihat and Rathantara. When Garuda flaps his wings, the chanting of the hymns of the Samaveda is heard. Garuda is engaged in the eternal service of Lord Vishnu in Vaikuntha. Every temple of Lord Vishnu has an idol of Sri Garuda sitting with folded hands before the Lord.

Other Names of Garuda

Garuda is known by various names such as:

Pakshiraja
Vainatheya
Suparna
Garutham
Periya Tiruvadi
Vinatasuta
Vishnuvahana
Nagantaka
Kashyapeya

Celebration of Garuda Panchami

On the special occasion of Garuda Panchami, a grand abhishekam is performed to the idol of Garuda Deva, followed by special alankara and aarti. Sponsoring this abhishekam for his happiness is considered an act of virtue. With the grace of Garuda Deva, devotees can easily attain the lotus feet of Lord Krishna.

This festival of Garuda Panchami gives us the message of devotion and service towards Lord Vishnu. By celebrating this festival, we can bring spiritual power and prosperity in our lives.