Kurma Jayanti is celebrated to
mark the birth of Lord Vishnu as a tortoise which is called Kurma in Sanskrit.
He is believed to lift Mandaranchal Parvat on his back during his incarnation
as kurma. This auspicious day falls on Purnima in the Hindu month of Vaishakh
every year. This year it will be celebrated on Sunday 3rd May, 2015.
Legend of Kurma incarnation
Lord Vishnu took birth as tortoise
during the time of Samudra Manthan which was the battle between Devas and
Asuras in the mighty sea. During that time Asuras were very powerful as they
were having support and powers of Shukracharya. Also at that time Devas king
Indra was powerless as he was cursed by Durvasa Rishi. Taking advantage of this
situation Asura king Bali instituted his empire in all three lokas (Pataal,
Bhumi, and Antariksh) leaving Devas helpless and homeless.
Anxious Devas reached Lord Brahma
for help. Lord Brahma took all Devas to Lord Vishnu and explained him the
situation of Devas. Lord Vishnu told that a battle between Asuras and Devas
will take place in Kshir Sagar in which Devas will drink Amrit and will become
immortal and therefore kill Asuras.
Battle between Asuras and Devas
started with Mandaranchal Parvat as centre and snake King Vasuki as rope. But
as soon as Mandaranchal Parvat placed at the centre, it started sinking. At
that time Lord Vishnu came in as tortoise and lifted the mountain on his back.
That is how the battle completed making Devas victorious again.
Importance of Kurma Jayanti
According to Shastras the day of Kurma Jayanti is very significant. Performing tasks like shifting in a new house or starting construction on this day is considered auspicious. Many special puja dedicated to Lord Vishnu are organized in various Vishnu temples on his day.