The Sacred Tradition of Udupi Paryaya Festival 2026 : Eight Mutts And Centuries of Devotional Continuity The sacred town of Udupi in Karnataka stands as a testament to unwavering devotional tradition, where for over centuries, the biennial Paryaya festival has marked one of the most unique administrative transitions in Udupi mutt cum temple worship. This extraordinary celebration represents not merely a change of hands in temple management, but a profound spiritual rotation that embodies the principles of equality, devotion, and systematic worship established by the great saint Madhvacharya in the 13th century. Udupi Paryaya 2026-2028: Dates and Details The much-anticipated Udupi Paryaya is set to commence on January 18, 2026 , and will continue for a period of two years, concluding on January 18, 2028 . This significant event in Udupi's religious calendar will see the Shiroor Math pontiff take charge of the Sri Krishna Math administration. The Historical Foundation The roots o...

Balepet Narasimha Swamy Temple: Three‑Day Narasimha Jayanti Festival & Month‑Long Rituals Overview of the Temple Nestled in the heart of Bangalore’s historic Balepet district, the Balepet Narasimha Swamy Temple venerates Lord Narasimha—the fierce fourth incarnation of Vishnu. Believed to be over 500 years old, this shrine draws daily worshippers seeking protection, strength and inner peace. Balepet Narasimha Swamy Temple Narasimha Jayanti festival 2026 dates are from April 29 to May 1. Narasimha Jayanti is on April 30, 2026. Deities Worshipped Lord Ugra Narasimha (main sanctum): Emblem of divine protection and justice. Sri Yoga Narasimha (side shrine): Bestower of mental tranquility and focus. Lakshmi Narayana (outer hall): Symbol of prosperity and marital harmony. Three‑Day Narasimha Jayanti Festival Every year on Vaishakha Shuddha Trayodashi, Chaturdashi and Purnima—when the moon aligns with Swathi nakshatra—the temple celebrates a vibrant three‑day festival: ...

  Balepete Lakshminarasimha Swamy Temple Festival Guide 1. Vaishakha Narasimha Jayanti Utsava (3 Days). In 2026, it is from April 29, April 30 and May 1. Held on Vaishakha Shuddha Trayodashi, Chaturdashi and Purnima under Swati nakshatra (April–May), this is the temple’s principal celebration. Devotees witness: Mahabhishekam & Alankara: Elaborate abhishekam with five sacred substances (Panchamruta), followed by floral and silk decorations. Laksharchana: Chanting of Lord Narasimha’s 100,000 names, believed to purify the mind and remove karmic impediments. Thiruppavadi Procession: The deity is taken in a grand palki, symbolizing Narasimha’s protection of devotees. Benefits: Enhanced spiritual clarity, relief from ancestral curses, and strengthening of inner courage. 2. Vaishakha Month Sevas Thiruppavadi & Laksharchana: Daily chanting and offerings throughout Vaishakha reinforce continuous divine grace. 3. Shravana Pavitrothsava On the Shravana nak...

  Ten-Day Masi Magam Festival at Thirupurambiyam Saatchinathar Temple Every year in the Tamil month of Masi (February–March), the ancient Saatchinathar Temple at Thirupurambiyam comes alive with a grand ten-day celebration honouring Lord Shiva. Known locally as the Masi Magam Festival, this event draws devotees from across the state to participate in centuries-old rituals, vibrant processions, and community gatherings. Masi Magam 2026 date is March 3. The Temple Situated near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, the Saatchinathar Temple dates back to the medieval Chola period. Its sandstone gopurams (towered gateways) and intricately carved pillars reflect the hallmark of Dravidian architecture. The main sanctum houses the Shiva lingam, worshipped here as Saatchinathar. A smaller shrine dedicated to his consort Parvati stands adjacent, underscoring the temple’s role as a center of Shaiva worship. Significance of Masi Magam Masi Magam occurs when the full moon aligns with the Magam star, ...

Shiva’s Cosmic Dance at Thirupurambiyam  Margazhi Thiruvathirai Festival Thirupurambiyam Saatchinathar Temple, situated near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Saatchinathar. Constructed during the Chola period, the temple showcases classic Dravidian architecture, with a five-tiered rajagopuram (gateway tower), intricately carved pillars, and stone inscriptions dating back to the 11th century. While the primary deity is not in the dancing Nataraja form, the temple’s sanctum resonates with the energy and devotion associated with Shiva’s cosmic dance. Saatchinathar Temple Margazhi Thiruvathirai festival 2026 date is January 3. The Significance of Margazhi Thiruvathirai Margazhi, the ninth month in the Tamil calendar (mid-December to mid-January), is regarded as highly auspicious for spiritual practices. Thiruvathirai night—occurring when the lunar asterism Thiruvathirai (Ardra) aligns—is dedicated to celebrating Shiva’s ...

Chithirai Pournami Festival at Thirukarukavur Velladainathar Shiva Temple: A Celebration of Divine Grace and Community Service Nestled in the culturally rich state of Tamil Nadu, the Thirukarukavur Velladainathar Shiva Temple stands as a beacon of ancient traditions and unwavering faith. Also known as Thirukarukavur Sivan Temple, this revered site is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the spiritual heritage of the region. The temple, where Lord Shiva is venerated in the form of a Banalinga under the name Velladainathar and Goddess Parvati is revered as Kavianganni, becomes the epicenter of divine celebrations during the auspicious Chithirai Pournami festival. Chithirai Pournami festival 2026 date at Thirukarukavur Velladainathar Shiva temple is on May 1. Historical and Mythological Significance The lore surrounding Thirukarukavur is steeped in mysticism and divine interventions. One of the most compelling legends associated with the temple involves the revered Saivite ...

Dodda Jatre or Panchamaharathotsava Festival at Nanjangud Shiva Temple: A Grand Celebration of Devotion and Tradition Nestled on the banks of the sacred River Kapila, the temple town of Nanjangud in Karnataka comes alive every year in March or April with a vibrant display of faith, culture, and community spirit.  Panchamaharathotsava Festival 2026 date is March 30.  (Please clarify with temple authorities as there is always a confusion regarding exact date). The Dodda Jatre, also known as the Pancha Maha Rathotsava, is one of the most anticipated religious festivals in the region. Devotees from far and wide gather to witness and participate in the elaborate chariot procession dedicated to Lord Srikanteshwara and other revered deities. This festival is not only a display of devotion but also a celebration of tradition, unity, and the spiritual heritage of the community. Note -  The festival is annually held on Shukla Paksha Dwadashi tithi or the twelfth day during the waxi...

Ramanujacharya Jayanti at Karamadai Ranganathaswamy Temple: Celebrating the Legacy of a Saint The Ramanujacharya Jayanti is a highly significant occasion celebrated across South India, particularly in temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. At the Karamadai Ranganathaswamy Temple , the observance of this Jayanti in Chithirai Masam (Tamil month) holds special significance. This year, the festival will be celebrated on April 22/23, 2026 , commemorating the birth anniversary of Sri Ramanujacharya , one of the most revered Vaishnavite saints and philosophers in Indian history. Historical Significance of the Karamadai Ranganathaswamy Temple The Karamadai Ranganathaswamy Temple is a prominent Vishnu temple in Tamil Nadu, renowned for its ancient architecture and spiritual legacy. It is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a reclining form of Lord Vishnu. The temple gains added significance due to its association with Sri Ramanujacharya , who is believed to have stayed here during his travels from T...

Yediyur Siddhalingeshwara Swamy Jatra Festival: A Celebration of Divine Legacy and Timeless Traditions Nestled in the heart of a vibrant community, the Yediyur Siddhalingeshwara Swamy Temple stands as a beacon of spirituality and cultural heritage. Each year, the temple comes alive with the grandeur of the Jatra Festival—a 15-day celebration that commemorates the sacred day when Siddalingeshwara attained Nirvikalpa Sannidhi, the state of ultimate, unconditioned enlightenment.  Yediyur Siddhalingeshwara Swamy jatra festival 2026 date is March 25.  This festival, rich in rituals and traditions, attracts devotees far and wide, each seeking the blessings and divine grace of Siddalingeshwara. The Sacred Journey of the Jatra The festival's most significant day falls on Ugadi, the Hindu New Year, marking the commencement of a new spiritual cycle. On the 7th day of this auspicious period, the Jatra is performed to honor the day Siddalingeshwara entered Samadhi—a profound union with th...

Nearly fortnight long annual festival at Ekambareswarar Temple in Kanchipuram attracts thousands of devotees. The Kanchipuram Ekambaranathar Temple, located in the ancient city of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, India, holds profound spiritual significance for devotees and visitors. Ekambareswarar Temple festival 2025 dates are from April 1 to April 13, 2025: Thirukalyanam will held on the early morning hours of April 11, 2025. The annual festival begins with kodiyettam or flag hoisting The flag hoisting is on April 1, 2025 Velli Adhikara Nandi Vahanam is held on the morning of the fifth day. In 2025, Velli Adhikara Nandi Vahanam is on April 5, 2025. On the sixth day there is the famous 63 Nayanmargal Urchavam in the morning and on the same day at night there is the Velli Ther or Silver Chariot. Nayanar Urchavam 2025 date is April 6, 2025 Therottam or Car Festival is on the seventh day morning Car Festival 2025 date is April 7, 2025 The famous Thirukalyanam is held on the ...

Tirupati Gangamma Jatara is an annual folk festival celebrated in Tirupati, India. It is a week-long event that falls between the first and second weeks of May every year. This festival is dedicated to Goddess Gangamma, the Gramadevata (goddess protecting the region) of Tirupati. Goddess Gangamma is revered as the sister of God Venkateshwara Balaji, the presiding deity of the Venkateshwara Temple in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. Tirupati Gangamma Jatara 2026 date is May 12 to May 19. The main festival will be held on May 19, 2026. Historical Significance The festival is celebrated grandly at the Tataiahgunta Gangamma Temple , located on the east side of Tirupati city. According to legend, when Tirupati and its surrounding areas were ruled by Palegondulu, women faced enormous harassment. During this time, Goddess Gangamma was born in the village of Avilala and grew into a beautiful woman. When the Palegondulu attempted to harm her, she used her grace and power to kill him. To lure him o...

Hanuman Jayanthi is celebrated in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on the Dasami or tenth day during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) of Vaishakha month in the Telugu traditional Hindu calendar. In 2026, the date of Hanuman Jayanthi in Andhra Pradesh is May 12. Also known as Anjaneya Swamy Jayanti or Hanumantha Jayanti, it marks the end of 41-day Hanuman Deeksha (Anjaneya Mala)which began on Chaitra Purnima.  Hanuman Jayanti is observed in a unique way by Telugu devotees by visiting important temples dedicated  Lord Hanuman . Apart from conducting prayers and pujas, people also undertake pilgrimages during the 41-day Deeksha period (which begins on Chaitra Purnima - April 2, 2026). The most popular Hanuman Jayanti in India is observed in Chaitra Month - this is on April 2 . Karnataka and Tamil Nadu observe the auspicious day on different dates. The 41 Day Hanuman Deeksha in Andhra Pradesh And Telangana Hanuman Jayanthi is celebrated by the Te...

Narad Jayanti is observed as the birth anniversary of Devrishi Narad, also known as Narada Muni. Devrishi Narad is one of the Prajapatis and also one of the great seven Rishis. In 2026, the date of Narad Jayanti is May 2. Some of the hymns in Rig Veda are credited to Narada Maharshi. For the majority of Hindus, Sage Narad is the Veena holding Sanyasi who creates trouble often with a positive intention or for the betterment of the universe. Narad Jayanti is observed on the day after Purnima (full moon day) in Vaishakh month (April – May). It is believed that Sage Narada appeared from the forehead of Lord Brahma. Some Puranas like the Vishnu Purana suggest he is the son of Sage Kashyapa. The ever-wandering Sage, Narad plays a crucial role in many important events associated with Hindu religion and a precursor of modern day journalist and mass communicator. He is believed to have invented the Veena and is also the chief of the Gandharvas, heavenly musicians. He roams freel...

Kurma Jayanti celebrates the second incarnation or avatar of Lord Vishnu – Kurma Avatar. Kurman means Tortoise and the aim of this particular avatar was to help the Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons) in helping in Samudra manthan (Churning of ocean). In 2026, Kurma Jayanti as per traditional North Indian calendars is on May 1. Kurma Avatar symbolically represents stability. We need to remain stable when the world around us is being moved like the mandara mountain. We can get this stability only through unwavering devotion. Kurma Mantra Om Aam Hreem Kroum Kurmasnaya Namah ॐ आं ह्रीं क्रों कूर्मासनाय नम : Once due to a curse from Sage Durvasa, the Devas lost all their power and the demons gained upper hand in the battle between good and evil. Soon evil flourished and the demons drew the Devas out of heaven. The Devas took refuge in Vaikunta and asked Lord Vishnu to help them. He suggested the churning of ocean which would derive Amrit (potion of immortality). By...