Why Observe Bhisma Pancaka? #JayapatakaSwamiArchives

Get ready for the last five days of Karthik. Indulge in Bhakti by following the footsteps of the great Mahajjans. Why observe Bhishma Panchaka? Bhijma Dev, the son of Mother Ganga and a Mahajjan, had the boon of leaving his body when he so desired. The last five days of Kart month, termed as Bhishma Panchaka, marks those days when Bishmadev prepared to leave his body meditating on the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Lord Ka, being very pleased with Bishmadev, agreed to give his pure love to those fortunate souls who chant, sing, hear, read, worship and fast for the five days of Bisma Panchaka. It is stated in the Padma Purana that the fast should begin by remembering Bismadev on the Ekodeshi day and should end on Purnima. One should eat only fruits and roots and should worship Lord Gauranga. It is also stated in the Padma Purana that for one who observes Karthik vrat, he should intensify it for the last five days. Suta Goswami further remarks, this liberating fast is unknown even to the demigods. Even if someone attentively listens to this narration, he also achieves happiness. Take the opportunity to benefit from these precious five days. Every year Jayapataka Swami inspires thousands of devotees all around the world to observe this vrat in honor of Bhmahadev. They bathe in the Ganga, offer tarpana for Bhmahdev and enthuse devotees by observing fasting. By personally serving an honoring prasad with thousands of devotees.