April 16, 2025 
Observing a Vrat on Parashurama Jayanti is a way for devotees to honor Lord Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu, and seek his blessings for courage, strength, and victory over enemies. The focus is on devotion to Lord Parashurama through prayers, chanting his mantras “Om Jamadagnaya Vidmahe Mahaviraya Dhimahi Tanno Ramah Prachodayat” or “Om Parashuramaya Namah”, and reciting stories related to his life and valor. Some devotees may also visit temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu or Lord Parashurama, offer special prayers, and engage in charitable activities, particularly donating to Brahmins.
This year, Parashurama Jayanti will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 29th. The auspicious Tritiya Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the Vaishakha month begins on Monday, April 28th at 05:31 PM and ends on Tuesday, April 29th at 02:12 PM (IST). The Puja Muhurat for Parashurama Jayanti is ideally observed from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM on April 29th.
Celebrating Parashurama Jayanti Vrat involves a combination of spiritual practices and acts of devotion. Many devotees begin the day with an early holy bath, purifying themselves before commencing the fast. A significant aspect is observing a strict fast (Vrat) for the entire day. While some may choose a complete fast without food and water, others might opt for a partial fast, consuming only fruits, milk, or other permissible sattvic foods.
The focus during the fast is on prayers and meditation dedicated to Lord Parashurama. Chanting his powerful mantras, such as “Om Jamadagnaya Vidmahe Mahaviraya Dhimahi Tanno Ramah Prachodayat” or “Om Parashuramaya Namah,” is considered very auspicious and helps in connecting with his divine energy.
Significance and Divine Lineage
Lord Parashurama is a significant figure in Hindu mythology, known for his exceptional martial skills and unwavering commitment to dharma. He is the son of the sage Jamadagni and Renuka, and his name literally means “Rama with an axe”. Legend narrates his birth to rid the earth of tyrannical Kshatriyas who had become arrogant and oppressive. Parashurama is often depicted as a formidable warrior wielding his divine axe, yet also as a wise Brahmin well-versed in scriptures. His unique combination of warrior prowess and spiritual wisdom makes his birth anniversary a day of great reverence, symbolizing the harmonious blend of power and intellect.
Observances and Rituals
The celebration of Parashurama Jayanti typically involves various religious observances. Many devotees observe a fast for the day, often abstaining from grains and consuming only fruits, milk, or water. Special prayers and pujas are performed in homes and temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu or Lord Parashurama. Chanting of mantras dedicated to him, such as “Om Jamadagnaya Vidmahe Mahaviraya Dhimahi Tanno Ramah Prachodayat” and “Om Parashuramaya Namah,” is considered highly auspicious. Recitation of stories and scriptures detailing his life, valor, and teachings from texts like the Vishnu Purana and the Mahabharata forms an integral part of the celebration.
Coincidence with Akshaya Tritiya and Charitable Acts
Parashurama Jayanti coincides with the highly auspicious festival of Akshaya Tritiya. This convergence makes the day even more significant for undertaking charitable activities and auspicious deeds. On this day, it is customary for devotees to engage in charity and donations, particularly giving to Brahmins and the needy. This act of giving is believed to be highly meritorious and aligns with the principles of dharma upheld by Lord Parashurama. Visiting temples, offering prayers, and participating in community gatherings are also common ways to celebrate this auspicious occasion, remembering the powerful yet righteous warrior sage and seeking his blessings for strength, wisdom, and the triumph of good over evil.