Vivah Panchami: Celebrating the Sacred Marriage of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita

Vivah Panchami is a special festival celebrated on the fifth day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Agrahayana (Margashirsha), according to the Hindu calendar. It marks the divine marriage of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita and is observed with great devotion in Mithila (Janakpur), as well as other parts of India and Nepal.

When is Vivah Panchami?

Vivah Panchami falls in November or December as per the Gregorian calendar. This year, it is celebrated on December 6th, 2024. The Panchami Tithi begins at 12:49 PM on December 5th and ends at 12:08 PM on December 6th.

Significance and Celebrations

This festival holds immense cultural and religious importance in Hinduism. It commemorates the wedding anniversary of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, symbolizing love, purity, and spiritual connection. On this day:

• Devotees visit temples and offer prayers to the divine couple.
• Special puja ceremonies are held to seek blessings for a harmonious life.
• The festival is marked by joyous celebrations, devotional songs, and rituals.

The Story Behind Vivah Panchami

According to the Ramayana, Sage Vishwamitra once sought help from King Dashrath of Ayodhya to protect sages from demons disrupting their sacred rituals. King Dashrath sent his sons, Ram and Laxman, who defeated the demons.

After their victory, Vishwamitra took them to Janakpur, where the Swayamvar of Princess Sita, King Janak’s daughter, was being held. King Janak declared that whoever could break Lord Shiva’s mighty bow would marry Sita. Many kings failed to lift the bow, but Lord Rama, under Sage Vishwamitra’s guidance, succeeded in breaking it and won Sita’s hand in marriage.

How is Vivah Panchami Celebrated?

• In Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, and the Mithila region (India and Nepal), this day is celebrated with great enthusiasm.
• Temples recreate the wedding ceremony of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, drawing large crowds of devotees.
• Cities associated with Lord Rama and Sita are beautifully decorated, and processions and rituals bring the festive spirit to life.

Vivah Panchami is not just a celebration of a divine union but also a day to honor the virtues of love, devotion, and commitment.