With deep spiritual roots and a rich historical background, India is a country of diverse traditions, beliefs, and festivals that bring people together in devotion and celebration. Festivals in India are a true reflection of its essence of culture and are worth experiencing.
Ram Navami is among the most important Hindu celebrations. This year, the event takes place on Sunday, April 6.
What is Rama Navami?
People celebrate Ram Navami with deep devotion and enthusiasm to honor the birth of Lord Rama, the son of Dasaratha and Kausalya, who is also the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Rama holds a special place as one of the most revered deities and is considered a symbol of worship in Hinduism through his integrity and virtue.
The festival takes place on the ninth day of the Chaitra month as per the Hindu calendar, usually falling in March or April. It is also part of the Chaitra Navaratri festival observed during spring. Devotees celebrate this occasion by worshipping Lord Rama at home and in temples, with grand celebrations in Ayodhya, which is considered his revered birthplace.
Rama Navami History
Faced with the threat of the demon Ravana, Lord Vishnu decided to be born as the four sons of Dasharatha, including Rama, to defeat the demon.
King Dasharatha was unable to have children, and with the advice and assistance of Rishi Vashishth, he performed the Putra Kamesti Yagna. From the sacrificial fire of Dasharatha emerged a deity carrying a pot of payasa. According to the instructions, the king distributed the sacred offering among his three wives.
Then, Queen Kaushalya gave birth to Rama on the ninth day of the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) of the lunar cycle in Chaitra (March-April). Along with him, Kaikeyi gave birth to Bharata, and Sumitra was blessed with twins, Lakshmana and Shatrughna.
Rama is renowned for his good conduct, righteousness, and virtues. Lord Rama is the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He later became the king of Ayodhya.
Rama Navami Celebration
Devotees worship Lord Rama to seek his blessings and attain inner peace. During this period, folks fast and chant mantras for Rama. Many also go to temples to pray to him.
Rama Navami Puja:
During Ram Navami, people take a bath and put on clean clothes to maintain purity. They tidy up their worship spaces to perform puja at home and bathe a sacred idol of Rama. The rituals involve setting up idols of Lord Rama as well as Sita (his wife), Lakshmana (his brother), and Hanuman (a deity and a devoted follower of Rama).
Rama Navami Puja Samagri List:
- Panchamrit
- Gangajal
- Akshat
- Chandan
- Kumkum and Haldi
- Flowers
- Garland and Tulsi Leaves
- Agarbatti and Dhoop
- Kapoor
- Ghee Lamp
- Fruits
- Sweet Offerings
Chant prayers or recite mantras. Do an arti to end the puja.
Conclusion
It feels amazing to be enveloped in the devotion and joy that surrounds Ram Navami. Put on traditional clothes, participate in the prayers, and witness the divine energy of the Lord. Nothing beats the spirit of devotion and the blessings this special festival brings.
