Narasimha Jayanti नृसिंह जयंती

Narasimha, the man-lion, is the fourth avatar of Vishnu in the traditional list of ten. The Bhagavata Purana tells how the demon king Hiranyakashipu received a boon that he could not be killed by man or beast, indoors or outdoors, by day or night, on earth or in the sky, or by any weapon. His son Prahlada remained a steadfast devotee of Vishnu despite repeated attempts on his life. When Hiranyakashipu mocked him and struck a pillar, asking whether Vishnu was in it, Narasimha burst from the pillar at twilight, placed the demon on his lap on the threshold, and tore him apart with his claws, which is how each condition of the boon was technically respected.

The story is told on the evening of the festival, which is the tithi of the avatar's appearance at dusk. This is why the fast runs until the evening, and the principal worship is held at twilight and not at noon. Narasimha is revered as a fierce protector who is also gentle toward his devotee, and the image of Prahlada seated safely at his side shows that duality. The mantra Ugram Viram Maha-Vishnum is widely chanted on the day.

The deity has important shrines in Andhra Pradesh at Ahobilam and Simhachalam, at Yadadri in Telangana, and at Melkote in Karnataka. In Andhra and Telangana he is a family deity for many households. Panakam, the jaggery drink, is frequently offered. Exact customs differ between Vaishnava lineages, so it is best to follow your family's or temple's schedule for the evening worship.