Significance
Narsi Mehta Jayanti marks the birth of Narsi Mehta, the Gujarati saint-poet who composed "Vaishnav Jan To" (later Gandhi's favourite bhajan) and other devotional songs.
Mythology & Legend
According to tradition, Narsi Mehta was a Nagar Brahmin from Junagadh who was blessed by Shiva to sing of Krishna. He faced poverty and ridicule but remained devoted. His "Vaishnav Jan To" describes the ideal devotee—one who feels others' pain and avoids malice.
Rituals & Observances
- At sunrise, offer puja to Krishna or Narsi's image.
- Sing or listen to "Vaishnav Jan To" and other Narsi bhajans.
- Visit Narsi Mehta's temple in Junagadh if possible; participate in satsang.
- Practise the values in his songs: compassion, truth, and humility.
Sacred Mantras
वैष्णव जन तो तेने कहिए
vaiṣṇava jana to tene kahie
Vaishnav Jan To
Traditional Foods
- ●Sattvic
- ●Prasad
- ●Gujarati vegetarian
Regional Variations
Gujarat(નરસી મહેતા જયંતી)
Junagadh, bhajan singing
North India(नरसी मेहता जयन्ती)
Vaishnav Jan To in satsangs
Do's & Don'ts
Do's
- ✓Sing Vaishnav Jan To
- ✓Worship Krishna
- ✓Practise compassion
- ✓Attend satsang
Don'ts
- ✗Do not disrespect the saint
- ✗Avoid malice
- ✗Do not skip the bhajan