Lord Rama is believed to be the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He is considered to be an ideal human being and a symbol of truth, righteousness and virtue. He is known for his bravery, courage and devotion for his duty. He was free from greed, hatred and vices; defended the vulnerable and stood up for what was right against all odds, because of these qualities he was known as ‘Maryada Purushottam.’ Ram Navami marks the birth anniversary of Lord Shri Ram. Almost every festival has a story behind it and Ram Navami also has the same. The Hindu epic- Ramayana has a description of the festival.
History/Story Behind Ram Navami
King Dashratha had three queens – Kaushalya, Kaikeyi and Sumitra, but they weren’t able to bear him an heir. On the advice of Rishi Vashishth, they performed Putra Kamesti Yagna. Lord of Yagna blessed the three queens and were given kheer. Soon after having the kheer, the queens conceived- on the ninth day of Chaitra month (Threta Yuga), Queen Kaushalya gave birth to Lord Rama, Sumitra gave birth to Lord Shatrughan and Lord Lakshaman, and Kaikeyi gave birth to Lord Bharat.
How Is Ram Navami Celebrated?
Ram Navami is celebrated as the conclusion of Chaitra Navratri. Devotees of Maa Durga organise havan at their homes and end the nine-day-long Navratri fast.
According to Drik Panchang, devotees are supposed to observe a one-day fast, during which they recite and listen to the epic Ramayana and celebrate the union of Lord Shri Ram and Lady Sita. They organise Ram Navami processions. They perform a havan before breaking the fast the next day.
During the puja, they offer kala chana, puri and halwa/kheer. They also prepare panka (juice with muskmelon), masala buttermilk, kosambari.
Although the festival is celebrated across India, it is celebrated in Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) in a grand way.
Happy Ram Navami to all! Jai Sri Ram.
