Rama Navami- Here’s why we rejoice this festival

Do you know about Ram Navami festival? Do you known the date or time we are we going to celebrate it in 2019? Keep reading to know more about it.

Rama Navami is dedicated to Purushottam Ram- Lord Rama. It is one of the most awaited Hindu celebrations that rejoices the birthday of Lord Rama.

When is Ram Navami celebrated?

It falls on the 9th day of Shukla Paksha or bright fortnight in Hindu month of Chaitra. But as per Gregorian calendar, it is observed in the month of March-April. Generally, it coincides with Chaitra Durga Puja or Vasant Navratri.

In 2019, it is going to be observed on 14th April. As it follows Lunar calendar, the date keeps changing every year.

Ram Navami History and Story

Have you ever thought about the origin of this festival? Do you know why is it celebrated? Lets find it out.

As per Hindu epic Ramayana, Dashrath was the king of Ayodhya. During his reign, the kingdom prospering. However, Dashratha, due to not having any children was unhappy. He decided to conduct Puthra Kamesti Yagna. Maharshi Rushya Shrung took command of the yagya. It was in fact a great event for the people of Ayodhya. During the ending ceremony, Maharshi Rushya Shrung cited a mantra and made an offering in the fire of the yagya.

When the sacrificial ceremony of the Ashvamedh yagya came to an end, there appeared a shining figure from the kund.

The divine figure offered Kingd Dashratha a divine beverage and asked him to give it to his queens. As an effect, in due time Kaushalya, Kaikayi and Sumitra gave birth to Rama, Bharat, Laxman and Shatrugna.

It was an auspicious day of celebrations for the people of Ayodhya. Little did they know, Lord Vishnu himself incarnated as Rama to kill Ravana.

This is why Ram Navami is celebrated to mark the birthday of Lord Rama.

Celebrations of Sri Rama Navami Festival

Rama Navami is celebrated all across India with full spirit. The celebration begins from the first day called Pratipada in the month of Chaitra (March-April). People read Ramayana and organize bhajans and kirtans.

They play bhakti songs and decorate Shri Ram’s statue beautifully. During the nine days, those who recite Ramaraksha stotra eleven times a day with a sankalpa gain prosperity. On navami (the ninth day), a special bhajan is held. In some temples and shrines, a coconut draped in a cloth is placed in a cradle. It symbolizes baby Rama. Devotees shower chandan, gulaald flowers onto it. People also observe a day-long fast.

Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh), Bhadrachalam (Telangana), Rameshwaram (Tamil Nadu), and Sitamarhi (Bihar) are famous for their Rama Navami celebrations. In some parts of India, devotees organize Rath-yatras (chariot processions).

In many parts of India, fairs are held that signifies the celebration of Rama Navami.

Rama Navami Puja Vidhi and offerings

Since Lord Rama is an avatar of Lord Vishnu, the puja vidhi is same for His adulation. Tulsi leaves are essential to worship Lord Rama. Use lotus flowers and offer kheer (made in rice and milk). You can also use a sweet treat made from pure gree, semolina and sugar as an offering.

So, seek the blessings of Lord Rama and rejoice the day with pomp and glory.