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Ramnavami or the birth ceremony of
Lord Rama falls on the 9th day of the bright fortnight of the month of Chaitra. According to the Hindu mythology Ram is the
seventh incarnation of Vishnu, the Creator God. Ram is the hero of the epic
Ramayana, incarnate on earth for the destruction of Ravana.
Ramnavmi is one of the most important festival of the Hindus.
On this auspicious day, devotional songs on Shri Ram were sung by devotees.
Celebrations begin with a prayer to the Sun early in the morning. Devotees throng Ram temples to offer
prayers. Throughout the day, devotees had the
opportunity of darshan. At midday,
when Lord Rama is supposed to have been born, a special prayer is performed. At night temples
are lit with electric lights to mark the birth of one who vanquished the forces
of darkness, even the image of Lord Rama is richly adorned.
Kirtan, bhajan and speeches on "Maryada Purushottam Ram" are delivered by the
saints and pujari.
Ayodhya is the focus of great celebrations. At Ayodhya, the birthplace of Sri Rama, a big fair is
held on this auspicious day.
Ratha yatras of Rama and his wife Sita, brother
Lakshmana and devotee Hanuman, are taken out from many temples.
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