Janaki Jayanti is celebrated annually on the Ashtami Tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Phalguna. This day is observed with reverence and devotion as the birth anniversary of Mata Sita. According to religious beliefs, on this very day, King Janaka of Mithila received Mata Sita from the earth, whom he accepted as his daughter. Therefore, this festival is also known as Sita Ashtami.
This festival is considered particularly significant for married women, as Mata Sita is regarded as the ideal wife and a symbol of a happy domestic life. It is believed that worshipping Lord Shri Ram and Mata Sita on this day brings happiness, peace, and prosperity to the family. Devotees observe fasts, organize storytelling sessions (Katha-Kirtan), and pray to Mata Sita for the well-being of their families.
When is Janaki Jayanti?
Janaki Jayanti will be celebrated on Thursday, February 21st, this year. According to the Drik Panchang, the Ashtami Tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Phalguna will begin at 9:58 AM on February 20th and end at 11:57 AM on February 21st. Based on this, the Janaki Jayanti festival will be celebrated on February 21st with proper rituals. On this day, devotees worship Mata Sita and Lord Shri Ram, praying for happiness, prosperity, and peace in their domestic lives.
Janaki Jayanti Puja Vidhi (Rituals)
* Bath and Sankalp: Wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and wear clean clothes. Then, make a resolve for the fast and the puja.
* Preparation of the Puja Place: Place a stool (Chauki) in the home temple or a sacred place, spread a red or yellow cloth on it, and install the idol or picture of Mata Sita and Lord Shri Ram.
* Offering Materials: Offer Roli, Akshat (rice), flowers, sandalwood, incense, lamps, and fragrant offerings to Mata Janaki.
* Recitation of the Vrat Katha: Read or listen to the Vrat Katha, narrating the glory of Mata Janaki.
* Aarti and Prayers: Perform the Aarti of Mata Janaki and Lord Shri Ram and pray for the happiness and prosperity of the family.
* Bhog and Prasad Distribution: After the puja, offer Panchamrit, sweets, or fruits to Mata Sita as Bhog and distribute the Prasad among everyone.
* Charity and Service: Donating food, clothes, and Dakshina to the poor and needy holds special significance on this day.
Mantras for Mata Sita
Shri Sitaaye Namah
Shri Ramachandray Namah
Shri Ramaya Namah
Om Janaki Vallabhaya Namah
Shri Sita-Ramaya Namah
Significance of Janaki Jayanti
In Hinduism, Mata Sita is considered an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi, and her life symbolizes ideals and dharma. The festival of Janaki Jayanti highlights the importance of this day, as it marks the birth of Mata Sita. Worshipping Mata Sita on this day is believed to bestow the blessings of Mother Lakshmi, bringing happiness, prosperity, and wealth to the home. Many devotees observe a fast on this day and perform special puja of Shri Ram and Sita.
It is believed that observing this fast brings the blessings of unbroken marital happiness, family peace, and prosperity in all aspects of life. This day is particularly important for married women, as they believe that worshipping Mata Sita on this day maintains happiness and gentleness in their marital life.
