Ram Navami celebrates the birth of Lord Ram, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It falls on the ninth day of the Chaitra month in the Hindu calendar. This year devotees will be celebrating Ram Navami on 17th April. On this devotees observe fasting, visit temples, and recite prayers to honour Lord Rama's virtues and teachings.
Vedic astrology teacher and counsellor Bani Singh Chadha recently shared that Ram Navami is one of the most auspicious days in the year and that's why no 'muhurat' or special time is needed to start any new venture. According to her the resolution of fasting on Navami should be taken on the day of Astami which is one day before.
She mentioned that on the day of Ram Navami, you can do the pooja at home with Ram name chants. You can also listen to Ram ramashtakam or Ram raksha stotra which is like a protective shield given by Lord Ram to his devotees. Bani also stated that the Ram name has the power to move mountains and to keep stones floating in water.
According to the Drik Panchang, the Navami Tithi begins at 1:23 PM on April 16 and concludes at 3:14 PM on April 17. The prime time for Ram Navami puja is between 11:03 AM and 1:36 PM on April 17, with the exact moment of Lord Rama’s birth celebrated at 12:21 PM. The optimal period for puja, known as the Madhyanha Muhurat, spans from 9:57 AM to 12:31 PM.
Celebrations: Devotees celebrate Ram Navami with great enthusiasm and devotion. They visit temples dedicated to Lord Rama, offer prayers, and participate in religious ceremonies and processions.
Fasting and Feasting: Some devotees observe fasts on Ram Navami as a form of penance and to seek blessings from Lord Rama. Others organize feasts and distribute prasad (sacred food) to family, friends, and the community.
Recitation of Ramayana: The epic Ramayana, which narrates the life and deeds of Lord Rama, is recited in temples and homes during Ram Navami. Devotees gather to listen to the sacred verses and reflect on the teachings of the epic.
Bhajans and Kirtans: Singing devotional songs (bhajans) and chanting the name of Lord Rama (kirtans) are integral parts of Ram Navami celebrations. These musical renditions create a spiritual atmosphere and invoke feelings of devotion among the worshippers.
Processions: In some regions, colourful processions are taken out on the streets on Ram Navami. These processions feature images or idols of Lord Rama, accompanied by singing, dancing, and chanting by devotees.
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