Gayatri Japam
Gayatri Japam is a very glorious and holy day for
Hindus. It is observed just after Shravana Purnima (full moon day in the Hindu
month of Shravana) as per the traditional Hindu calendar. This date corresponds
to the months of July-August in the Gregorian calendar. On the auspicious day
of Gayatri Japam, also known as ‘Gayatri Japa Sankalpam’, the Sama Vedi, Rig
and Yajur Brahmins chant the Gayatri mantra with utmost devotion and dedication.
In the Southern states of India, this ritual forms a part of the Avani Avittam
and Upakarma rituals. During this ritual Brahmins who wear the ‘janeyu’ or the
sacred thread, chant the Gayatri mantra 108 times. The Gayatri Japam day is
celebrated with full fervour all across India and is popularly called as
‘Gayatri Padyami’ or ‘Gayatri Pratipada’ in the Telangana and Andhra regions.
Significance
of Gayatri Japam:
The supremacy of Gayatri Mantra is
mentioned in several Hindu religious scriptures and puranas. The greatness of
this mantra has been known since the Vedic times. This mantra is more powerful
than any other mantras and forms the foundation for all other mantra in
Hinduism. As per the legends, Gayatri is known to be the Supreme Goddess and is
also referred as Mother Goddess. It is believed that a person who performs
Gayatri Japam sincerely will be bestowed with all spiritual and worldly
happiness. The power of Gayatri mantra is such that it frees the individual
from all his/her sins, besides offering self purification.
Rituals during Gayatri Japam:
- Brahmins get up before sunrise and take an
early bath on the day of Gayatri Japam. They first offer prayers to their
deities to get enlightened with knowledge and wisdom.
- After finishing the initial puja rites,
Brahmins chant the Gayatri Mantra for 108 or 1008 times continuously. The
mode and sequence of performing this ritual majorly depends on the mutt
affiliation. The Gayatri Japam ritual is performed during the morning and
within the speculated time.
- Not only Brahmins but any individual can
perform the Gayatri Japam ritual. A Brahmachari (on who follows celibacy),
a Grihastha (householder) or even one in ‘Vanaprastha’ (old age) can
selflessly chant this mantra with a pure conscience.
- Gayatri mantra is dedicated to Sun God. It
is believed to be highly meritorious to chant Gayatri Mantra three times
during the day, in the morning when the sun rises, at noon when Sun
reaches its apex and in the evening when the Sun sets. Gayatri Mantra is
one that unites the individual with the Supreme Power, the Almighty.
2017 Date : 29th July.
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