April 18, 2025 
Surdas Jayanti is a day dedicated to remembering and celebrating the birth anniversary of the revered saint, poet, and musician Surdas, a significant figure in the Bhakti movement. Born in the 15th century, Surdas, despite being blind, became an extraordinary devotee of Lord Krishna, expressing his profound love and devotion through countless soul-stirring hymns and poems, primarily in Braj Bhasha.
His compositions, most notably the ‘Sur Sagar’, beautifully depict the childhood and divine love of Krishna, significantly influencing devotional music and literature in India. Surdas Jayanti, which falls on the Panchami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the Vaishakha month, is a time for devotees to honor his legacy by singing his bhajans, reciting his verses, and reflecting on his unwavering devotion to Lord Krishna.
Surdas Jayanti will be celebrated on Friday, May 2, 2025. The Panchami Tithi begins on May 1st at 11:23 AM and ends on May 2nd at 9:14 AM.
Celebrating Surdas Jayanti is primarily about immersing oneself in the devotion and poetry of the saint Surdas towards Lord Krishna. A significant way to observe this day is by singing his devotional hymns, either individually or in gatherings at temples and homes. These melodious compositions beautifully describe the divine love of Krishna, particularly his childhood and interactions in Braj. Many devotees also engage in recitals of Surdas’s verses from his renowned work, the ‘Sur Sagar’, reflecting on the profound emotions and spiritual insights they convey.
Another way to celebrate is by visiting Krishna temples and participating in special prayers and kirtans dedicated to the Lord, often including the singing of Surdas’s bhajans. Listening to or narrating the life story of Surdas and discussing his teachings and contributions to the Bhakti movement is also a meaningful way to honor his legacy.
Some devotees may also observe a fast on this day as a form of devotion. Cultural programs, including musical performances and poetry recitations focused on Surdas’s works, are often organized, especially in regions like Mathura, Vrindavan, and other places associated with Krishna’s life and the Bhakti tradition. It’s a day to remember Surdas’s unwavering faith and the power of his devotional poetry.
The Life and Legacy of Surdas
Surdas’s life is deeply intertwined with his devotion to Lord Krishna. He has it that he lost his sight at a young age and, feeling despondent, met his guru, Vallabhacharya, who initiated him into the path of devotion to Krishna. Under his guidance, Surdas began to compose and sing devotional songs that captured the essence of Krishna’s life, particularly his enchanting childhood in Vrindavan and the divine love between Radha and Krishna. His magnum opus, the ‘Sur Sagar’, is a collection of thousands of verses that beautifully narrate these episodes, filled with deep emotion, lyrical beauty, and profound spiritual insight.
Observances and Celebrations
Surdas Jayanti, which falls on Friday, May 2nd in 2025, is observed with heartfelt devotion. The primary way to celebrate is by immersing oneself in the works of Surdas. Devotees gather to sing his bhajans and recite his verses, often in temples dedicated to Lord Krishna or at home. These musical renditions create a spiritually charged atmosphere, allowing devotees to connect with the profound love and devotion that characterized Surdas’s poetry.
Many Krishna temples organize special prayer meetings, kirtans, and musical programs where Surdas’s compositions are central. Discourses on his life, teachings, and the significance of his literary contributions are also often held. Some devotees may also observe a fast on this day as a mark of respect and devotion. It’s a day to remember and celebrate the extraordinary talent and unwavering faith of a poet who, despite physical limitations, illuminated the path of devotion for generations to come.