Narasimha Dwadashi is an important Hindu festival which marks the appearance of Narasimha avatar of Lord Vishnu, this festival is celebrated every year on the Dwadashi date of Shukla Paksha of Phalgun month.

Before Holi 2024, Narasimha Dwadashi will be celebrated on Thursday, March 21, 2024. This date is determined according to Dwadashi Tithi, which is based on the cycle of the Moon. Narasimha Dwadashi symbolizes the incarnation of Lord Narasimha, who appeared to protect devotee Prahlad. On this day Lord Narasimha is worshiped and fast is observed. This day is a symbol of devotion and dedication towards Lord Vishnu. On this day, special worship of Lord Narasimha is done in many temples. Devotees perform aarti of Lord Narasimha and distribute prasad. At some places, a procession of Lord Narasimha is also taken out. Devotees hail Lord Narasimha and sing devotional songs.

Importance of this festival:

This festival commemorates the incarnation of Lord Narasimha. Lord Vishnu had taken the form of Narasimha to protect devotee Prahlad. Hiranyakashipu, father of Prahlad, was a powerful king who hated Lord Vishnu. He forbade his son Prahlad from worshiping Lord Vishnu, but Prahlad was a devotee of Vishnu. Hiranyakashipu made several attempts to kill Prahlad, but Lord Vishnu saved him every time. Finally, Lord Vishnu took the form of Narasimha and killed Hiranyakashipu.

Devotion and Dedication:

This festival is a symbol of devotion and dedication towards Lord Vishnu. Devotee Prahlad is famous for his devotion towards Lord Vishnu. He refused to follow his father’s orders and continued worshiping Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu was pleased with Prahlad’s devotion and dedication and protected him.

Victory of good over evil:

This festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Lord Narasimha saved devotee Prahlad by killing Hiranyakashyap. This incident symbolizes the victory of good over evil.

Fast of Narasimha Dwadashi:

Devotees observing fast on this day take bath in the morning and worship Lord Narasimha. After the puja, they offer offerings to Lord Narasimha and take a vow to fast. During the fast, devotees chant mantras of Lord Narasimha and recite religious scriptures. The next day, after sunrise, devotees observe the fast.

On this day, special worship of Lord Narasimha is done in many temples. Devotees perform Aarti of Lord Narasimha and distribute Prasad. At some places, a procession of Lord Narasimha is also taken out. This festival provides an opportunity to the devotees for devotion and dedication towards Lord Narasimha.

Best wishes to all of you on Narsingh Dwadashi.