Sri-Ramnavami, dedicated to the birth of Lord Rama, occurs on the ninth
day (navami). The festival commemorates the birth of Rama who is
remembered for his prosperous and righteous reign known as Ramrajya,
associated with a period of peace and prosperity. Ramnavami occurs in
the month of March. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy
nation wide. Celebrations begin with a prayer to the Sun early in the
morning. At midday, when Lord Rama is supposed to have been born, a
special prayer is performed. In northern India especially, an event that
draws popular participation is the Ramnavami procession. It is avery
famous procession which attracts people all over the country. The main
attraction in this procession is a gaily-decorated chariot in which four
persons are dressed as Rama, his brother Laxman, his queen Sita and his
disciple, Hanuman. Several other persons dressed in ancient costumes as
Rama's soldiers accompany the chariot. The procession is a gusty affair
with the participants shouting praises echoing the happy days of Rama's
reign.
The birthday of Lord Rama, the celebrated hero of the famous epic,
'Ramayana', is enthusiastically celebrated on the ninth day of the
waxing moon in the month of Chiatra, all over India. Lord Vishnu is
worshipped in his human incarnation as Rama, the divine ruler of
Ayodhya. Celebrations begin with a prayer to the Sun early in the
morning. At midday, when Lord Rama is supposed to have been born, a
special prayer is performed. People sing devotional songs in praise of
Rama and rock, images of him in a cradle to celebrate his birth.
Rathyatras or chariot processions of Ram, his wife Seeta, brother
Lakshman and devotee Hanuman are held from many temples. People gather
in thousands on the banks of the sacred river Sarayu for a dip. Some
observe a strict fast on this day. Ayodhya is the focus of great
celebrations. Devotees throng the temples of Ayodhya and Pondicherry,
two places closely connected with the events of the Ramayana to
participate in Ramnavami festivities.
