The Advent of the Ideal Man
Ram Navami is a cherished Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Rama, the seventh and one of the most revered avatars of Lord Vishnu. Observed on the ninth day (Navami) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu month of Chaitra, this day marks a momentous occasion in Hindu tradition. Lord Rama is the central figure of the epic Ramayana, a story that is not just a religious text but a guiding light on morality, duty, and righteousness. He is revered as 'Maryada Purushottam', the perfect or ideal man, the very embodiment of dharma, compassion, courage, and devotion.
The story of his birth is one of divine intervention. The noble King Dasharatha of Ayodhya, despite having three wives, was childless and longed for an heir. On the advice of the sages, he performed a grand 'Putrakameshti Yajna' (a sacred fire ritual for progeny). From the sacrificial fire, a divine being emerged, bestowing upon the king a bowl of divine kheer (pudding) to be shared among his queens. As a result, his eldest queen, Kaushalya, gave birth to Rama. His birth was a divine answer to the prayers of the gods and the earth, to vanquish the tyrannical demon king Ravana of Lanka. Ram Navami, therefore, is not just a birthday celebration; it is a festival that reaffirms the power of good, the importance of living a righteous life, and the promise that divinity will always descend to Earth to conquer the forces of evil.
In This Article
How to Celebrate Ram Navami
Prayers and Fasting
Devotees observe a day-long fast, breaking it only at midnight, the time of Rama's birth. Temples dedicated to Lord Rama are beautifully decorated, and special prayers and pujas are conducted. An image or idol of infant Rama is often placed in a cradle and rocked by devotees.
Reading the Ramayana
Continuous chanting of the epic Ramayana, especially the 'Akhand Path' (unbroken reading), is organized in many temples and homes. This immersion in his life story is a key part of the celebration.
Rathayatras
In several places, chariot processions, known as 'Rathayatras', are taken out, with people dressed as Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman, reenacting scenes from their lives.
Puja Essentials
Sacred Mantras of Rama
The Taraka Mantra
"Shri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram"
This powerful and popular mantra, known as the 'Taraka Mantra' (the chant that liberates), is chanted by devotees. It is believed that its continuous repetition brings peace, purifies the soul, and leads one across the ocean of worldly existence.
