Bheema Jayanthi

Bheema Jayanti is a significant day commemorating the birth of Bhimasena, the second of the Pandavas, in the epic Mahabharata.

Details of Bheema Jayanti

• Date: Bheema Jayanti is observed on the 8th day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase) in the month of Margashirsha (also known as Margashira or Margashira).
• Significance: This day celebrates the birth of Bhimasena, who is considered a major hero in the Mahabharata. He is one of the Pandavas, known for his strength and unwavering devotion.

Divine Aspects of Bheema

• Avatara: Bheema is an incarnation of Vayudevaru (the Wind God). His birth as Bheema and his previous incarnation as Hanuman (during the Ramavatara) are seen as manifestations of Vayudevaru's divine presence. Both incarnations played crucial roles in destroying demons and upholding dharma (righteousness).
• Name and Meaning:
  • Bheema: Derived from the Sanskrit term meaning "fearless" or "one who brings fear to enemies". The term Bhee means "full" and Maa refers to "knowledge" or "mastery", while Sena implies "accompanied by Srihari" (Lord Vishnu).
  • Vrikodara: Another name for Bheema, meaning "one with the belly of a wolf", symbolizing his immense strength and voracious appetite.
• Role and Character: Bheema is known for his strength, valor, and commitment to Bhagavata Dharma (devotion to Lord Vishnu). He is often depicted as fiercely loyal and a powerful warrior who followed the path of righteousness.

Birth of Bheema

• Birth Story: According to the Mahabharata, Bheema was born to Kunti, the wife of Pandu, through the divine intervention of Vayudevaru. Vayu, the Wind God, merely touched Kunti to conceive Bheema, rather than following traditional methods of birth, which include icha (desire), sambhashana (conversation), veekShaNa (glance), sparshaNa (touch), and maithuna (union).
• Attributes: Bheema is known as a master of all vidyas (knowledge) and was always accompanied by Srihari (Lord Vishnu), symbolizing his divine connection and support.

Philosophical and Scriptural References

• Chaandogya Bhashya: This text describes Bheema as "without fear" and "bestower of fearlessness" (abhayadaayaka). He is depicted as unparalleled in both knowledge and strength.
• Verse:
  • "Bheemasena samo nasti senayor ubhayorapi."
  • This means "There is no equal to Bheemasena in both strength and leadership."

In summary, Bheema Jayanti honors Bhimasena, celebrated for his strength, devotion, and significant role in the Mahabharata. His divine origins and heroic deeds highlight his unique place in Madhwa Philosophy.