Narmada Jayanti 2026

Narmada Mata

Narmada Jayanti, Narmada Janamdivas, is the birth anniversary or the first appearance of River Narmada on the Earth. In 2026, Narmada Jayanti date is January 25.

Narmada Jayanti falls on Ratha Saptami, Shukla Paksha Saptami in Magh Month.

Narmada River originated at Amarkantak of Madhya Pradesh and flows in western direction through Maharashtra and Gujarat and then merges in the Arabian Sea.

Hoshangabad city authorities and the government of Madhya Pradesh conduct Narmada Jayanti celebrations in grand manner.

Amarkantak and Omkareshwara Jyothirlinga Temple are the best places to perform Narmada Pushkara Snana and other sacred rituals.

Omkareswar is the fifth Jyothirlingas among Dwadash Jyothirlinga Temples. Omkareswar is located at distance of 77 kms from Indore.

It is to note that Ujjain Mahakali Temple Shakti Peetha and Ujjain Mahakaleshwar Jyothirlingam Temple are located in Ujjain city, which is on Kshipra River banks, but not on Narmada River banks.

Significance

Devotees honor Narmada Mata, believed to be Lord Shiva’s daughter, for her purifying powers that bring prosperity, health, and protection from misfortunes. The festival coincides with Ratha Saptami and emphasizes river conservation alongside spiritual merits from worship.​

Key Rituals

• Early morning bath (snan) in the Narmada River, ideally with Narmada Jal or Gangajal for purification.​

• Puja with offerings of milk, honey, fruits, flowers, and incense; recite Narmada Ashtakam and perform aarti.​

• Evening Deep Daan (floating lamps) and vrat conclusion with sattvic prasad.​

Celebration Sites

Pilgrims gather at Amarkantak (river’s source), Omkareshwar, Maheshwar, and Hoshangabad for holy dips, fairs, and grand aartis. In South India and Hyderabad, devotees may visit nearby temples or perform home rituals venerating the river goddess.