Balarama Purnima, also known as Baladeva Purnima, is observed on the Shravan Purnima day in North India . Some Hindu communities believe that it is on this day that Balaram appeared on earth. Balaram Purnima 2024 date is August 19.
Baladeva appeared after Jhulan Yatra on the purnima, the
full-moon day, and Sri Krishna appeared seven days later on Ashtami
(August/September).
Legend has it that Balarama was transferred from the womb of Devaki to the womb of Rohini to avoid persecution by Kamsa. In Vrindavan, after the arrival of Lord Krishna, Balarama and Krishna participated in numerous adventures. Balaram was also the Guru of Duryodhana and Bhima. He avoided joining the army of either Pandavas or Kauravas in the 18-day Mahabharata war.
Throughout India, on this day women bind rakhis (a decorated
cloth bracelet) on their brothers. Another name of a rakhi is ananta. People
used to wear these anantas, made of either gold or silver, so that Ananta-deva
would protect them. It is believed that Baladeva is the manifestation of Ananta
– the thousand-headed serpent.
Special prayers are offered on this day in Lord Krishna temples. Lord Balaram symbolizes strength and devotees pray for physical strength and a healthy life.
It must be noted here that the sixth day of Bhadrapad month that is two days before Sri Krishna Jayanti is also observed as the appearance day of Balaram by many communities in North India.
It must be noted here that the sixth day of Bhadrapad month that is two days before Sri Krishna Jayanti is also observed as the appearance day of Balaram by many communities in North India.