Indians across the Hindu religion will celebrate Valmiki Jayanti on October 17, 2024, as they mark the birth anniversary of Maharishi Valmiki. Known as the Adi Kavi, or the first poet of Sanskrit literature, Valmiki authored the epic Ramayana, a collection of 24,000 verses and 7 cantos. The day, also known as Pargat Diwas, is celebrated traditionally on the full moon day of Ashwin in the Hindu calendar, and is commonly referred to as Panchanga. Share in the festivities with Valmiki Jayanti Wishes, quotes, greetings, and photos to commemorate the occasion.
Valmiki Pargat Diwas, also known as Prakat Diwas, is an auspicious day observed annually by Hindus worldwide to commemorate the birth anniversary of Maharishi Valmiki, the revered author of the epic Ramayana. This occasion coincides with the full moon day (Purnima) of the Ashwin month in the Hindu calendar, which typically falls in October or November.
According to mythology, Valmiki was a reformed dacoit who underwent a profound spiritual transformation under the guidance of sage Narada. After years of intense penance, he was granted the divine ability to narrate the story of Lord Rama and his legendary journey.
The Ramayana, a Sanskrit epic of over 24,000 verses, is considered one of the most sacred and influential texts in Hindu literature. Valmiki's masterful storytelling and his profound insights into human nature have made the Ramayana an enduring classic that has inspired countless generations.
Valmiki Pargat Diwas serves as a tribute to the literary genius of Maharishi Valmiki and the profound impact of the Ramayana on the spiritual and cultural fabric of India. It is a day when devotees express their gratitude for the wisdom and guidance enshrined within this epic masterpiece.
On Valmiki Pargat Diwas, people across India engage in various religious and cultural activities to mark the occasion. These include:
1. When is Valmiki Pargat Diwas celebrated in 2024?
Valmiki Pargat Diwas will be celebrated on October 17, 2024.
2. What is the significance of the Purnima day for this occasion?
According to legend, Valmiki is believed to have received the divine inspiration to compose the Ramayana during Purnima. Therefore, the full moon day is considered particularly auspicious for celebrating his birth anniversary.
3. What is the history behind Valmiki's transformation?
Valmiki was originally a notorious dacoit named Ratnakar. After an encounter with sage Narada, he underwent a profound change of heart and embarked on a journey of spiritual enlightenment.
4. Why is Valmiki considered the Adi Kavi (first poet)?
Valmiki is revered as the Adi Kavi because the Ramayana is believed to be the oldest surviving epic poem in Sanskrit literature, thereby establishing him as the pioneer of Sanskrit poetry.
5. What is the central theme of the Ramayana?
The Ramayana is essentially a story of dharma (righteousness), love, and sacrifice. It narrates the journey of Lord Rama, an ideal king and warrior, who faces numerous challenges and tests his faith to ultimately triumph over evil.
US-based private equity firm Tillman Global Holdings (TGH) is reportedly in advanced discussions to invest up to $6 billion in Vodafone Idea Ltd, which could lead to a change in operational control. However, the investment is contingent on the Indian government providing comprehensive relief covering AGR and spectrum payment dues. If the deal goes through, it could dilute existing promoter holdings, including those held by Aditya Birla Group and Vodafone Plc. While the news has boosted investor sentiment, analysts caution that government approval and debt restructuring clarity are key to the execution of the deal.
The Indian real estate market is undergoing a major shift with rising home prices, as apartments priced between Rs 2 crore and Rs 5 crore now dominate sales. This change has been highlighted by a Redditor who expressed concerns over the dwindling chances of middle-class buyers to afford a house. According to a Moneycontrol report, the trend is a result of big developers focusing more on luxury projects, leaving affordable housing in the backseat. As a result, home ownership for the middle-class seems like a distant dream, with even government employees struggling to afford these expensive properties.
Vodafone Idea's share price saw a significant increase of 14% after the Supreme Court provided further clarity on the AGR dues issue. The court clarified that the government can consider providing relief for both additional and reassessed AGR dues, giving some respite to the struggling telecom operator. At the time of writing, Vodafone Idea's share price was trading at Rs 9.51, with a gain of 8.93%. This comes after the court's previous hearing which did not provide a clear ruling on whether the relief applies to only Vodafone Idea's plea or the entire pending AGR amount of nearly Rs 80,000 crore.
After failing to meet Apple's internal sales expectations, the ultra-thin iPhone Air is facing a significant production cut of 80%. The initial prediction of reducing production by one million units has now been deemed insufficient, highlighting deeper concerns about the device's market performance. This setback raises questions about the competitive landscape of high-end smartphones and hints at Apple's next possible move towards a foldable iPhone.
In an effort to secure their rights to their intellectual property, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a new copyright agreement that will be in effect until 2025. This move ensures that BCCI maintains its exclusive right to reproduce, broadcast, and use any of its content, including images and videos, for commercial purposes. With the deal also covering the use of BCCI's logos and trademarks, it gives the governing body a tighter grip over its assets and sets a precedent for other sports organizations to follow suit.
The Social Security Administration recently released updates for 2026, including a potential 2.7% increase to benefits. However, the official announcement of the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) could be delayed due to the government shutdown. While an increased COLA is positive for beneficiaries, some argue that it still may not keep up with the rising cost of living. Additionally, beneficiaries who currently receive physical paper checks will need to make arrangements for direct deposit or a Direct Express card to continue receiving their benefits.
The Indian government has given its approval for the formation of the 8th Central Pay Commission, which will be tasked with assessing and making recommendations around pay, benefits, and working conditions for over 1.2 crore central government employees and pensioners. The Commission, which will have a chairperson, a part-time member, and a member-secretary, will have 18 months to complete its work and will also look at emolument structures and conditions in the private sector and CPSUs. The recommendations are expected to be implemented from January 1, 2026.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Gyan Bharatam Portal, dedicated to preserving and promoting India’s vast and unique manuscript heritage. Speaking at the Gyan Bharatam International Conference, PM Modi emphasized the importance of preserving India’s knowledge legacy and adapting to changing times. He also highlighted how the ancient manuscripts reflect India’s diverse cultural heritage and contribute to humanity’s progress in various fields.
The Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025, organized in New Delhi, has gathered delegates from over 80 nations, aiming to boost India's rice export share from 40% to 60%. IREF National President Prem Garg highlighted the need for increased export to benefit Indian farmers and declared the rice industry to be self-sufficient. The event, with participation from farmers, diplomats, and exporters, also emphasizes on banning pesticides and government support with ports and logistics to further boost the industry.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement, coinciding with the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, to showcase only indigenous Indian dog breeds at the upcoming National Unity Day Parade highlights the country's reliance on self-sustained K9 forces. The Ekta Diwas Samaroh celebrated India's diversity and unity, while PM Modi emphasized the significant role of indigenous dog breeds in Indian military and cultural traditions. With the current population of 150 Indian breeds deployed in strategic areas, the initiative, which gained momentum after PM Modi's visit to the BSF National Dog Training Centre in 2018, showcases the agility, stamina, and adaptability of these breeds in diverse terrains and climates.