Narasimha Jayanti 2025 – Date, Puja Vidhi, Mantra & Katha!

Narasimha Jayanti (Sanskrit: नरसिंह जयंती, Narasiṁha Jayantī) is a sacred Hindu festival commemorating the appearance day of Lord Narasimha, the fierce half-man, half-lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Celebrated on the Chaturdashi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Vaishakha (April–May), this divine day marks the transcendental moment when Lord Narasimha appeared from a pillar to protect His pure devotee Prahlada and annihilate the demon king Hiranyakashipu.

This powerful lila demonstrates the triumph of bhakti over tyranny and the eternal protection offered to the surrendered souls.

The Essence of Fearlessness through Devotion

“Ever wonder what it feels like to be fearless? It’s a rare feeling in this material world. But devotion makes it a common symptom among all the devotees. Want to feel that authenticity? Then devotion is the way!”

A heart full of bhakti knows no fear. Just as Prahlada Maharaja, a five-year-old child, remained untouched in the face of deadly torture, every soul connected to the Lord gains divine protection. This Jayanti is a time to honor that unbreakable bond between the Lord and His devotee, and to seek that strength in our own spiritual journeys.

Spiritual Significance of Narasimha Jayanti

Victory of Dharma over Adharma
The assurance that the Lord always protects His devotee
A call to develop humility, tolerance, and faith in divine will

Srila Prabhupada on Narasimha Jayanti

In a powerful lecture delivered on Nṛsiṁha Caturdaśī (May 1, 1969, Boston), Srila Prabhupada explained:

“Nṛsiṁhadeva has appeared to convince the atheist that there is no God. This is a lying propaganda that nobody has seen God. Everyone has seen God. The devotee sees within his heart, in the temple, and everywhere.”
— Śrīla Prabhupāda, Lecture on Nṛsiṁha-caturdaśī, May 1, 1969, Boston

Srila Prabhupada further explained that just as a person with eye disease cannot see clearly, the conditioned soul cannot see God due to material contamination. But when the eyes are anointed with the ointment of love of Godhead (prema), one sees the Lord always and everywhere (cf. Brahma-saṁhitā 5.38).

He emphasized that Prahlada Maharaja was a symbol of unwavering devotion, and urged us not to imitate but to follow his footsteps:

“So what Prahlāda Mahārāja did, that we have to follow his example… In spite of all kinds of inconveniences and torture by the atheist class of men, we shall never forget Kṛṣṇa consciousness.”
— Śrīla Prabhupāda, Lecture on Nṛsiṁha-caturdaśī, May 1, 1969, Boston

Rituals and Observances

On this auspicious day, devotees observe several spiritual practices:

Fasting until dusk (Narasimha Chaturdashi Vrat)
Temple rituals: Abhisheka, arati, and chanting of Narasimha prayers
Recitation of protective hymns:
- Narasimha Gayatri Mantra
- Narasimha Kavacham
Offerings of flowers, fruits, and sweets to the deity
Reading the pastimes of Lord Narasimha and Prahlada Maharaja

Celebrations at ISKCON Bangalore

ISKCON temples worldwide, especially ISKCON Bangalore, observe this festival with grandeur:

Elaborate Abhisheka and Chandan Alankara (sandalwood paste decoration)
Arati and kirtan led by devotees
Chanting of Sri Narasimha Ashtottara Shata Nama Stotra
Discourse on Lord Narasimha’s appearance and Srila Prabhupada’s teachings
Distribution of prasadam and opportunity to participate in seva

Narasimha Jayanti 2025: Date & Timings

Date: Sunday, May 11, 2025
Chaturdashi Tithi Begins: May 10, 2025, at 5:29 PM
Chaturdashi Tithi Ends: May 11, 2025, at 8:01 PM
Sayana Kala Puja Time: 3:36 PM to 6:14 PM (IST)
Madhyahna Sankalp Time: 10:19 AM to 12:57 PM (IST)
Next Day Parana (Breaking Fast): After 5:01 AM on May 12, 2025

The Legend of Lord Narasiṁha and Prahlāda

Divine Devotion Amidst Darkness

In Satya-yuga, the demon king Hiraṇyakaśipu unleashed a reign of terror after receiving a boon that seemingly rendered him invincible. But even in the heart of this darkness, his own son Prahlāda emerged as a beacon of unwavering devotion to Lord Viṣṇu, fearlessly chanting “Om Namo Bhagavate Vāsudevāya” despite the mortal danger.

Time after time, Hiraṇyakaśipu’s brutal attempts to shake Prahlāda’s faith failed. The saga culminated in the Lord’s dramatic appearance as Narasiṁha—neither man nor beast—who emerged from a palace pillar at twilight to destroy the tyrant in a manner that honored every clause of Brahmā’s boon. The Lord’s fury, however, remained until Prahlāda’s heartfelt prayers calmed Him. With that, Narasiṁha returned to His eternal abode, leaving behind sacred sites such as Ahobilam and Devapalli, which to this day resonate with divine presence.

Prahlāda: The Devotee Born in Adversity

Spiritual Wisdom in the Womb

While still in the womb of Queen Kayādhu, Prahlāda Mahārāja received transcendental teachings from Nārada Muni, learning bhāgavata-dharma before birth—a divine beginning to a life of devotion.

Fearless Faith

In a kingdom where glorifying Viṣṇu was forbidden, young Prahlāda boldly proclaimed the Lord’s name, proving that genuine devotion transcends all fear and opposition.

Hiraṇyakaśipu’s Tyranny

A Boon for Destruction

Through severe austerities, Hiraṇyakaśipu pleased Brahmā and was granted an extraordinary boon:

Death would not come by man, animal, demigod, or weapon
Not indoors or outdoors
Not by day or night
Not on earth or in the sky

Empowered by this boon, the king outlawed the worship of Lord Viṣṇu and declared himself supreme.

Persecuting His Own Son

Prahlāda’s devotion enraged Hiraṇyakaśipu, leading to repeated assassination attempts—poisoning, trampling by elephants, and exposure to venomous snakes. Miraculously, Prahlāda emerged unscathed each time, protected by the grace of the Lord.

The Trial by Fire: Holikā’s Defeat

In one desperate act, the king enlisted his fire-resistant sister Holikā to burn Prahlāda. But divine will prevailed—the flames consumed Holikā while leaving Prahlāda untouched. This episode is commemorated during Holikā Dahan, a symbol of bhakti’s triumph over demonic forces.

The Divine Confrontation

“Is Your God in This Pillar?”

Challenging Prahlāda’s faith one last time, Hiraṇyakaśipu mockingly asked if Viṣṇu resided in a nearby pillar. When Prahlāda replied confidently, “Yes,” the king struck the pillar with his mace.

The Appearance of Lord Narasiṁha

With a thunderous roar, the Supreme Lord emerged from the pillar as Narasiṁha—a transcendental form with the body of a man and the head of a lion.

At twilight (neither day nor night), on the palace threshold (neither indoors nor outdoors), Narasiṁha placed the demon on His lap (neither earth nor sky) and dismembered him with His nails (not a weapon), thus fulfilling every aspect of the boon while restoring cosmic balance.

The Aftermath

The Lord’s Unabated Wrath

Though justice was served, the Lord’s fury terrified even the gods and sages. No one dared approach Him—except His beloved devotee.

Prahlāda’s Soothing Prayers

Prahlāda fell at His feet and offered humble prayers, glorifying bhakti. Moved by his sincerity, Narasiṁha placed His divine hand upon Prahlāda’s head, blessing him and restoring peace.

Restoration of Dharma

The Lord then crowned Prahlāda as king, entrusting him to rule with righteousness and devotion, thereby reinstating the lost balance of the universe.

Sacred Sites of Lord Narasiṁha’s Pastimes

Ahobilam: The Roaring Abode

Nestled in the Nallamala Hills of Andhra Pradesh, Ahobilam is believed to be the very site where Lord Narasiṁha manifested. Its name derives from the exclamations of the devas—“Aho Balam!” (What strength!) and “Aho Bilam!” (What a cave!). Here, the Lord appeared in nine distinct forms (Nava Narasiṁha), each representing a different mood:

Ahobila Narasiṁha – The fierce slayer of Hiraṇyakaśipu
Jwala Narasiṁha – Blazing and untamed
Malola Narasiṁha – Graceful, with Lakṣmī Devī
Kroḍa Narasiṁha – A blend of Varāha and Narasiṁha
Karanja Narasiṁha – Worshipped by sage Nārada
Bhārgava Narasiṁha – Associated with sage Bhṛgu
Yogananda Narasiṁha – Seated in meditative tranquility
Chatravata Narasiṁha – Under a peepal tree amidst music
Pāvana Narasiṁha – The most compassionate form

Each shrine is a pilgrimage in itself, drawing devotees to relive the Lord’s divine līlās.

Devapalli (Nṛsiṁha Palli): The Lord’s Repose

After vanquishing Hiraṇyakaśipu, Lord Narasiṁha journeyed to Devapalli in Navadvīpa (West Bengal). Here, He is said to have washed the blood from His hands in the Mandākinī River. The demigods, recognizing the sacredness of this act, established their residences here, forming a village dedicated to the Lord. Known today as Śrī Nṛsiṁha-kṣetra, this holy site was later visited by Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu and His associates, who offered kīrtan and prayers to Narasiṁha.

The Legacy of Lord Narasiṁha

The story of Narasiṁha is more than legend—it is a living truth that continues to inspire faith, courage, and righteousness. Chronicled in the Bhāgavata Purāṇa, Viṣṇu Purāṇa, and Mahābhārata, it teaches us that the divine will always protect sincere devotees, regardless of circumstances.

Each year, Narasimha Jayanti is celebrated with great fervor, reminding us that even in the darkest times, the Lord’s mercy is never far. The sacred lands of Ahobilam and Devapalli stand as enduring testaments to this timeless truth, beckoning all to remember and reconnect with the divine protector of bhakti.

Transcendental Teachings of Prahlāda Mahārāja: The Perfection of Mercy

“Hiraṇyakaśipu is asura, but his son is devatā, Prahlāda. Now, according to birthright, he should be also asura, but no. He is devatā, Prahlāda Mahārāja. Prahlāda Mahārāja is counted one of the twelve great personalities who can distribute transcendental knowledge. They are called mahājana.”
— Śrīla Prabhupāda, Lecture on Bhagavad-gītā 2.13, New York, March 11, 1966

Prahlāda Mahārāja, the saintly son of the demon king Hiraṇyakaśipu, is revered as one of the twelve mahājanas—exalted personalities who perfectly embody and disseminate transcendental knowledge. Though born in a demonic lineage, he remained unwavering in his devotion to Lord Nṛsiṁhadeva and is celebrated for his qualities of humility, spiritual wisdom, and boundless compassion.

His instructions, preserved in the pages of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam (Canto 7), offer timeless guidance for all who seek the ultimate goal of life: unalloyed devotion to the Supreme Lord.

1. Mercy Beyond the Material: Leading Others to Devotion

Prahlāda Mahārāja teaches that the highest form of compassion is not merely providing material aid, but enlightening others about their spiritual identity and relationship with the Supreme Lord. Feeding the hungry or clothing the poor may relieve temporary distress, but real suffering ends only when one is reconnected with Kṛṣṇa.

Despite being surrounded by classmates steeped in ignorance and born of demoniac culture, Prahlāda patiently instructed them in the principles of bhakti. His fearlessness and concern for their spiritual upliftment demonstrated the truest expression of mercy—bringing others to the lotus feet of the Lord.

2. Renouncing the Demoniac Mentality: Awakening from Illusion

Prahlāda boldly challenges the atheistic mindset that denies the existence of God and pursues material enjoyment as the goal of life. He describes such materialistic pursuits as a donkey’s labor—tireless struggle for minimal reward.

He urges one to abandon false identification with the body and fleeting pleasures, and to realize that lasting happiness comes only through surrender to the Supreme Lord. Those who reject this truth, he warns, remain bound by ignorance and karma, cycling endlessly through birth and death.

3. Devotional Service from Childhood: The True Use of Human Life

One of Prahlāda Mahārāja’s most essential teachings appears in Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 7.6.1, where he instructs:

“One who is sufficiently intelligent should use the human form of body from the very beginning of life—in other words, from the tender age of childhood—to practice the activities of devotional service, giving up all other engagements. The human body is most rarely achieved, and although temporary like other bodies, it is meaningful because in human life one can perform devotional service. Even a slight amount of sincere devotional service can give one complete perfection.”

Śrīla Prabhupāda comments that Vedic culture trains children from early life through the brahmacarya system to fix their minds on spiritual goals. However, in modern society, children are misled by materialistic values and deprived of true education. The Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement aims to revive this sacred culture by encouraging children and adults alike to chant the holy names and engage in bhakti-yoga.

Even a little effort in devotional service is never lost and grants the greatest benefit.

4. The Impermanence of Material Life: Fixing the Mind on the Eternal

Prahlāda Mahārāja constantly reminds us that the human body is temporary, but uniquely valuable because it allows us to pursue liberation. Material pleasures are short-lived and often lead to entanglement. Instead of wasting this rare opportunity, one should engage wholeheartedly in devotional service.

He criticizes the animalistic mentality of living solely for sense gratification, comparing it to degraded existence. The true aim of human life is to realize the Supreme Lord and develop pure love for Him, thereby ending the cycle of suffering and rebirth.

Conclusion: The Supreme Gift of Bhakti!

The teachings of Prahlāda Mahārāja are not merely philosophical—they are a call to action. He embodies the essence of bhakti: unwavering devotion, fearlessness in the face of adversity, and compassion for all souls. His life and words urge us to awaken to our eternal nature, begin devotional service without delay, and guide others toward the same path.

By embracing these teachings with sincerity, even in the age of Kali, we can attain the perfection of mercy and return to our rightful position at the feet of the Supreme Lord.

प्रह्लादस्य पञ्च गहनपाठाः यदा सः गर्भे आसीत् – Five Profound Lessons from Prahlada’s Time in the Womb

“Narada Muni delivered his instructions both to me, who was within the womb, and to my mother... These instructions were free from all material contamination.”
— Srimad Bhagavatam 7.7.15

Even before taking birth, Prahlada Maharaj became a spiritually enlightened soul. His extraordinary transformation happened not after his birth, but while still in the womb, by the mercy of the pure devotee Narada Muni. This ancient episode from the Bhagavata Purana is a powerful revelation of the soul’s inherent potential to connect with the Divine, even before physical birth.

Let’s explore five divine truths revealed through this transcendental pastime:

1. गर्भस्य अन्तः जीवनम् अस्ति — There Is Life Within the Womb

Narada Muni’s compassionate instruction to Kayadhu, Prahlada’s mother, was also heard by the unborn child. This is conclusive proof that the soul exists from the very moment of conception. The Vedic view firmly affirms that the fetus is not merely a cluster of cells, but a living, perceiving entity — a jiva.

2. बालकः गर्भे आध्यात्मिकं प्रज्ञां श्रोतुं शक्नोति — The Child Can Hear Spiritual Wisdom in the Womb

Prahlada’s ability to hear and assimilate transcendental knowledge in the womb demonstrates that the unborn child is conscious and receptive. Narada Muni wouldn’t have delivered such sacred teachings if the listener lacked the ability to receive them.

3. आध्यात्मिक प्रज्ञा गर्भात् एव धारयितुं शक्यते — Spiritual Wisdom Can Be Retained from the Womb

Astonishingly, Prahlada remembered every instruction he heard from Narada Muni even after birth. This proves that spiritual impressions (samskaras) can be retained deeply — especially when received through the words of a sadhu or pure devotee.

4. जन्मपूर्वमपि आध्यात्मिकगुरुं लभ्यते — One Can Find a Spiritual Master Even Before Birth

While many search far and wide for a genuine spiritual teacher, Prahlada received the shelter of a true guru effortlessly — by divine arrangement. This teaches us that guru-tattva is not limited by time, place, or even birth; the Supreme Lord sends a teacher when the soul is ready.

5. गर्भेऽपि विष्णोः शरणं कर्तुं शक्यते — Even in the Womb, One Can Take Shelter of Vishnu

Prahlada’s deep devotion to Lord Vishnu wasn’t cultivated later — it was instilled from the womb. This shows the power of devotional hearing (śravaṇam) and the soul’s eternal connection to Bhagavan. Even in an unborn state, one can call out to the Lord and receive divine protection.

Conclusion: Power of Pure Devotee Association!

Prahlada Maharaj is not just a legendary character — he is a timeless teacher, proving that spiritual life is independent of age, circumstance, and even bodily condition. His life reveals that bhakti can begin before birth, if one is blessed by the association of a pure devotee.

“O best of the Asuras, king of the demons, Prahlada! In your previous birth you were the son of a brahmana named Vasu Sharma. And in that birth, due to saintly association, your heart became fixed on Me.”
— Lord Narayana, Vishnu Purana

Why Do We Celebrate It?

Ideally, celebration is a sign of victory. However it shouldn't be for honoring one’s own senses, but honoring the spirit of those who fought till the end. Prahalad’s selfless devotion won over the demonic intentions of his father even after being tortured many times. Hence, it's an opportunity to pray for devotion like Prahalad Maharaj, from the Supreme Lord.

How to Celebrate Narasimha Jayanti

There are several scriptural ways to celebrate this auspicious day:

Observe a fast till dusk and break it after sunset with prasadam. Observe fasting ’Fasting’ is the way to discipline the senses through determination. It fuels the desire to serve the Lord with spiritually awakened heart. It is also considered as the best way to overcome the hunger of desires, which often act as an obstacle in our lives.
Chant the following mantras:
- Mantra of the Day:
  उग्रं वीरं महाविष्णुं ज्वलन्तं सर्वतोमुखम्।
  नृसिंहं भीषणं भद्रं मृत्युमृत्युं नमाम्यहम्॥
  “I bow down before the ferocious and brave form of Lord Narasimha, effulgent like fire, all-pervading, auspicious and the death of death itself.”
- Sri Narasimha Gayatri Mantra:
  ॐ वज्रनखाय विद्महे
  तीक्ष्णदंष्ट्राय धीमहि
  तन्नो नारसिंहः प्रचोदयात्॥
  Let us meditate on the powerful nails of Lord Narasimha. May that terrifying, sharp-toothed Lord inspire and illuminate our consciousness.
Prayers to Lord Narasimhadeva Narshima, a sign of spiritually awaken energy in every one of us, represents the divine protection and selfless devotion. Offering him prayers is the best way to strengthen one’s faith that the Lord will protect us in every circumstances. Those who worshipps Lord Narshimbha are not affected by sanideva, as he is the devotee of Lord Narasimhadeva.
Read Prahlada Charitra from the Bhagavatam
Offer Pannakam to Lord Narasimhadeva
Perform home or temple puja with deepa, tulasi, and naivedya
Visit a temple On this auspicious day, visit Gupt Vrindavan Dham to seek the blessings of Lord Krishna. The very sight of Lord is enough to awaken a desire to serve him. Festivities at Gupt Vrindavan Dham:
- Special Narasimha Yajna is being organised on this auspicious occasion.
- Sacred Narasimha Maha Aarti
- Grand Prasadam Distribution and Gau Seva
Donate to temple construction, Annadaan, Gau Seva, and support dharmic projects
Serve Vaishnavas and Sadhus with humility

Benefits of Observing Narasimha Jayanti

✅ Inner peace and spiritual purification
✅ Protection from unseen dangers and negative energies
✅ Strengthened faith and detachment from fear
✅ Blessings for prosperity, courage, and devotion
✅ Shelter of a divine guardian in every step of life

Reminder for Today's Youth

In today's generation, materialistic pleasures are often overlooked as the ultimate goal of life. However, while still a young boy, Prahalada proved that the real meaning of life is devotion, not wealth and fame. Here are few reminders, from the life of Great Prahalada, for today’s generation:

Once you surrender yourself to Lord Krishna, there's no need to worry about any bodily harm.
There will the tests of your trust but you shouldn't give up in any circumstances.
There's nothing supreme than the Supreme Lord Krishna himself, not even relationships(irreligious).
Do not be bewildered by emotional bondings and never leave the faith in the Lord.
Lord Krishna protect his devotees from the inside as well as the outside demons.

Final Reflection

This Narasimha Jayanti, let us remember the supreme compassion behind the Lord’s terrifying form. The lion-like incarnation of Vishnu didn’t appear to terrify His devotee but to protect and glorify his unwavering love. Let us walk the path of devotional fearlessness, taking full shelter of the Lord as Prahlada Maharaja did, and pray that our hearts may one day become worthy of seeing the Lord “sadaiva hṛdayeṣu vilokayanti”—always within.

“In any circumstance, do not forget Kṛṣṇa. That is called śaraṇāgati—surrender.”
— Śrīla Prabhupāda, Lecture on Nṛsiṁha-caturdaśī, May 1, 1969

Narasimha Chaturdashi is not just a festival—it is a powerful reminder to awaken our soul to spirituality.
In this divine pastime, Prahlada’s father—the demon king Hiranyakashipu—symbolizes the inner obstacles we all face, such as anger, lust, fear, and pride. Prahlada inspires us to stand firm in devotion, even in the face of adversity. When we take shelter of the Lord, He tears apart these internal demons and liberates us from all bondage.
Let us come together and sincerely pray to Lord Narasimhadeva to destroy the enemies within—just as He destroyed Hiranyakashipu—so that we may overcome the disturbances that hinder our devotional life.

Narasimha Chaturdashi 2025 (नरसिंह जयंती 2025)