Valmiki Jayanti is a significant Hindu festival that commemorates the birth of Maharishi Valmiki. Valmiki is highly respected in Hindu literature and spirituality, known as Adi Kavi, the original poet of the Sanskrit language. Valmiki Jayanti is also known as Pragat Diwas. Maharishi Valmiki is often referred to as the Adi Kavi, meaning the first poet in Sanskrit literature.
About the legendary writer: Maharishi Valmiki
Maharishi Valmiki was the traditional author who wrote the epic Ramayana. The holy book consists of 24,000 shlokas and seven cantos. His writing career started with a moment of empathy. He began his literary career by composing his first shloka after observing a female bird grieving for her mate.
It wasn't until Lord Brahma gave him the job of writing the Ramayana that Valmiki truly realised his life's purpose. Valmiki has a crucial role in Lord Rama's life in the Ramayana. While in exile (Vanvasa), Rama met Valmiki and eventually provided refuge to Sita, Rama's spouse, who had been exiled. Valmiki's forest dwelling transformed into a safe haven, where Sita gave birth to twin sons, Kusha and Lava, whom Valmiki raised with teachings from the Ramayana.
Valmiki Jayanti 2025: Date and muhurat
According to Drik Panchag, the day will be observed on Tuesday, October 7, 2025.
Purnima Tithi Begins - 12:23 PM on October 06, 2025
Purnima Tithi Ends - 09:16 AM on October 07, 2025
Celebration
On this day, devotees participate in a Shobha Yatra, a local procession during which people carry an idol of Valmiki. Throughout the pilgrimage, participants chant hymns and devotional verses. Many individuals also memorise the Ramayana to honour Valmiki. Additionally, people show their respect by offering prayers at Valmiki temples across the country.
These temples are beautifully decorated with flowers and lights, and followers provide complimentary meals while reciting prayers. A notable Valmiki temple in Amritsar, Punjab, is commonly known as Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal. This site is believed to be where Valmiki lived and offered refuge to Sita. It is also the birthplace of Luv and Kush.
