Sree Narayana Guru Jayanthi 2024: All you need to know

Sree Narayana Guru Jayanthi is a significant occasion commemorating the birth of Sree Narayana Guru, a spiritual leader and social reformer from Kerala, India. Born on 28 August 1856 in the village of Chempazhanthy, Kerala, Sree Narayana Guru emerged as a beacon of hope and enlightenment during a time of social discrimination and rigid caste hierarchies. His life and teachings have had a profound impact on the people of Kerala and beyond.

His birthday is celebrated in the month of Chingam in the Malay calendar, on the day of the star Chathayam. The dates of the occasion always vary from year to year. This year it will be celebrated on 18 September 2024.

Religious and social reforms of Guru Sree Narayana

Guru Sree Narayana's quest for knowledge and spiritual enlightenment led him to travel extensively throughout India. He studied various religious and philosophical texts and interacted with scholars and spiritual leaders from different traditions.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Kerala was characterised by significant social and economic inequalities, driven primarily by the entrenched caste system. Guru’s response to these challenges was both revolutionary and practical. He emphasised the importance of education and self-reliance as tools for social progress.

One of their key contributions was the creation of schools and educational institutions, which helped empower marginalized communities and foster social mobility.

Spiritual teachings and legacy of the guru

The Guru's spiritual teachings focused on the concept of universal brotherhood and the unity of all religions. He advocated the idea that all human beings, regardless of caste or religion, were equal in the eyes of God.

This philosophy was captured in his famous maxim: “One caste, one religion, one God for all.” His teachings encouraged people to transcend religious and social barriers and seek a deeper understanding of their spiritual selves. In addition to his emphasis on spiritual unity, Sree Narayana Guru also played a key role in reforming temple practices. He sought to make temples accessible to all, regardless of caste, and promoted the idea of ​​inclusive worship.

His last years

Sree Narayana Guru continued his work until his death on 20 September 1928. His passing was a significant loss to his followers and to the broader social reform movement in India.

Today, Sree Narayana Guru is remembered as a pioneering figure in the struggle for social justice and spiritual enlightenment. His life and teachings continue to inspire individuals and communities in Kerala and beyond, reflecting his lasting impact on Indian society.

Sree Narayana Guru Jayanthi: How is it celebrated?

Temples and community centers hold special prayers, pujas and offerings to commemorate the Guru's birth.

Devotees gather to participate in these rituals, which often include the singing of hymns and the recitation of the Guru's teachings.

Spiritual leaders and scholars conduct discourses on the teachings of Sree Narayana Guru, discussing his philosophy, social reforms and their relevance in contemporary times.

These sessions aim to inspire and educate people about his vision of equality and unity. Cultural performances, including traditional songs (bhajans) and dances, are organised to celebrate the Guru's life and contributions.

These performances often include devotional music that reflects the guru's teachings and values. Cultural performances, including bhajans and dances, are organized to celebrate the guru's life and contributions.

These performances often include devotional music that reflects the Guru's teachings and values.

The annual boat race held at Kumarakom is different from the other famous boat races of Kerala.

This boat race is held in commemoration of the visit of Sree Narayana Guru to the village. It is held on the day of Sree Narayana Guru Jayanthi. On this day, a grand procession of rural boats carrying the portrait of the Guru is taken out from the Kumaramangalam temple to Kottathodu.