Ramnavmi Wishes - Indian Festivals

Ramnavami is celebrated with immense zeal and enthusiasm all over India. This festival is celebrated in order to commemorate the birth of Lord Rama, the incarnation of Lord Vishnu on earth. Apart from being extremely popular in India, this festival is equally popular in all the countries where people following Hindu religion reside. It is considered one of the most ancient Indian festival in the country. On Ramnavami, devotees of Lord Ram also keep, a whole day fast and sing Ram bhajans throughout the day. They make this festival a vibrant and gusty affair. People on this day also present gifts to each other and exchange good wishes. If you also want to wish your near and dear ones, Happy Ram Navami, here are few soulful wishes.

Ram Navami best Wishes

Ram Ji ki jyoti se noor milta hai, sabke dilo ko shurur milta hai,

jo bhi jata hai Ram Ji ke dwar , kuch na kuch jarur milta hai.

Aapke liye bhi ye Ramnavami dher sari khushiyan lej\kar aaye!

'Happy Ram Navami'

Bhaji man raam siyapati raghukul ish

Deen bandhu dukh taran kausaladish

Ram kisi bhanti bhaji, Ravan ki riti taji

Happy Ramnavami !

Aapke jeevan me Ramrajya ki tarah satya, such aevam shant ka basera ho. Meri Ram se yehi prarthna hai ki wo aapko har khushi de. Ram ki jai ho!

Ramnavami ki Shubhkamna!

Ram aapke jeevan me prakash laye, Ram aapke jeevan ko sundar banaye..taj kar agyan ka andhkar, aapke jeevan me gyan ka prakash aaye…

Happy Ramnavami !

Ram ke naam me gyan hai, dhyan hai, satya hai, dharm hai, sach hai, sampoornta hai. Ram sansar ka sabse bada satya hai. Shree Ram ke charan kamal pe sar jhukayen aur jeevan me har khushi paye. Ramnavmi ki Badhai.

Ramnavami ke din Ram ne avtar liya tha buraiyon se ladne ke liye.. Is din ko sarthak banaye, apne andar ke Ravan ko mitaye. Happy Ramnavami!

Ram ko jeevan ka param satya maan, jeevan path par aage badhe.. Purshottam Ram aapko safalta denge, yehi meri kaamna hai! Jai shree Ram!

Sukhad Sundar aevam safal jeevan ki taraf Ram aapka margdarshan kare. Ram ka jeevan ek prerna shrota hai. Ram ki jai!

May the blessings of Lord Ram fill your life with happiness, prosperity and success! May you be blessed with all the happiness you deserve. Happy Ram Navami!

Lord Ram is the source of divine knowledge. Seek his blessings of peace and spiritual enlightenment. May you be blessed and bestowed with all kinds of success. Remember Ram with true heart. Happy Ram Navami!

Ram Navami SMS - Indian Festivals

Rama Navami is one of the important Hindu festivals of India, celebrated with great fanfare. The festival falls on the ninth day of the Chaitra month of Hindu lunar year in 'Shukla paksha' or waxing moon. Therefore, the festival is also referred to as Chaitra Masa Suklapaksha Navami. The festival marks the culmination of the nine-day celebrations of Chaitra Navaratri. Ram Navami is celebrated with religious fervor. The festival commemorates the birthday of Lord Rama, when Lord Vishnu was incarnated as Rama on this day, through Dasharatha's wife Kaushalya. All through the day of the festival, the devotees of Lord Rama indulge themselves in the worship of the deity. Special pujas are conducted in temples, as part of the festivities. If you want to wish anybody in your acquaintance a 'Happy Rama Navami', then explore the article. We have compiled a list of some of the popular SMS messages for Rama Navami.

Rama Navami Text Messages

Ram ji ki jyoti se noor milta hai

Sabke dilo ko shurur milta hai

Jo bhi jata hai ram ji ke dwar

Kuch na kuch jarur milta hai.

"Happy Ram Navami".

Bajre ki roti, aam ka achar,

Suraj ki kirne, khushiyo ki bahar,

Chanda ki chandni,apano ka pyar,

Mubarak ho aapko

Ramanavami ka tyohar.

Let us pray sacred mantras, in the praise of eternal savior: "Om Sri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram". Wish you be accompanied with auspiciousness and blessings of Rama Navami

Happy Ram Navami.

May Lord Ram Bless you on Ram Navami and Always

Ram jinka naam hai, Ayodhya jinka dhaam hai,

Aise raghunandan ko, hamara pranam hai

Aapko aur apke parivaar ko Ram Navami ki haardik shubhkaamnaye.

Bhaji mann Ram siyapati

Raghukul eese

Deen bandhu dukh taaran

Kosaladhees

Ram kisi bhaanti bhaji,

Ravan ki reeti taji.

Jai Shri Ram!

Significance Of Ram Navami - Indian Festivals

The festival of Ram Navami is celebrated as the birthday of the Hindu God Rama, who is believed to be one of the incarnations of Lord Vishnu. According to the Hindu calendar, it falls on the ninth day of the Chaitra month, which is the spring season. Though Rama Navami is a major festival which celebrates birth of Lord Rama, it is widely celebrated by the worshippers of Shiva, too. It is considered auspicious to undertake a fast on the day of Ram Navami, in the name of Rama. The objective of the fast is not to ask for special favors of the deity, but to seek perfection as a human being.

Devotees perform elaborate pujas and chant the name of Rama for whole day. Temples of Rama are specially decorated and satsangs and bhajan sessions are organized in most of the temples, through the day. Discourse on the Ramayana, are recited by a pundit or a professional story-teller on this day. At some places of India, it usually lasts nine days, beginning on Ugadi and ending on Rama Navami. A skilled story-teller who can liven up the event by weaving in contemporary events attracts massive crowds. Thus, people of India celebrate Ram Navami with great joy and devotion.

Since Rama is also one of the most sung-about deities in Indian classical music and literature, week-long (and sometimes, month-long) musical programs are also organized at some places. Sacred places associated with Rama, like Ayodhya, Ujjain and Rameshwaram, draw thousands of devotees on this festival of Ram Navami. In Rameshwaram, people take a ritual bath in the sea before worshipping at the Ramanathaswamy temple. Many places in North India host fairs in connection with the festival, culminating in spectacular fireworks on Rama Navami.

Indian Festivals - Ram Navami Rituals

Ram Navami is a sacred Hindu festival celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm all over the country. It is celebrated on the ninth day (Navami) of the Chaitra month (first month of Hindu lunar calendar) in 'Shukla paksha' or waxing moon. This festival is observed in order to celebrate the birth of Marayada Purshottam Ram, considered to be a form of Lord Vishnu, one of the prime deities of Hindu trio. It is said that, Lord Rama is not only god but also the ideal figure for a human being. He is considered to be an ideal son, a doting husband, a mighty king, a wonderful brother and a great father. On the occasion of Ramnavami, mot only the people in India but also the Hindu community living in the other parts of the world celebrate this great day with immense joy and fervor. Read on, if you want to explore about the traditional and rituals of this festival.

Rama Navami Traditions & Customs

Pooja

On the occasion of Ram Navami, all the devotees of Lord Rama worship to appease him. All the members of the family worship together, in order to celebrate the auspicious birthday of Lord Rama. The Pooja begins with the establishment of the idols or pictures of Lord Rama, Laxmana, Sita and Hanuman. All of these Gods and Goddess are then welcomed by lighting diyas and incense sticks. Then they are worshipped with the auspicious pooja materials like roli, aipun, rice, water, flowers, bell and conch and are also offered scrumptious sweets. At last, an aarti is performed and all the devotees in the Pooja are sprinkled with holy water as a sign of blessing and auspiciousness from God. The youngest female member of the family applies teeka to all the male members of the family. At the last the prasad is distributed to all the devotees.

Bhajan

Bhajans are also an important ritual of Ram Navami Pooja. The devotees of Lord Rama make the entire atmosphere pious by singing the bhajans and choupais of Ramcharit Manas. A holy priest narrates the story of Ran Janama (Lord Rama's birth) to all the devotees who observe fast on this day. Continuous chanting of holy mantras and Ramnam (Ram's name) makes the occasion highly religious as well as spiritual.

Fast

The followers of Lord Rama also observe a whole-day fast on the festival of Ram Navami. Many of the devotees go for a fast on satvik food i.e. holy food without salt and other adulterated materials. However many of them also observe a waterless fast (nirjal vrat). Those who prefer to have satvik food can have potatoes made in any form without haldi (turmeric), garlic, ginger or onion. Sendha namak (rock salt) is allowed for usage in fast. While on a fast, the person can also eat curd, milk, tea, coffee, fruits and root vegetables. The Ram Navami fast is opened on midnight if one has observed a waterless fast (nirjal vrat).

Rath Yatra

On the occasion of Ram Navami, a Rath Yatra or a chariot procession is also taken out in Ayodhya, the birth place of Ram. The Ram Rath Yatra also consists of idols of Sita, Laxman and Hanuman. The Rath Yatra is taken out by many of the temples in the city and is followed with the chanting of Ram Nama ( Rama's holy name) by the devotees. Many foreigners who are seeking spiritual enlightenment also attend this chariot procession as it is said to bring spiritual enlightenment and good luck forever in life.

Ram Navami Recipes - Indian Festival

Sri-Ramnavami is dedicated to Lord Rama, the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It occurs on the ninth day (navami) of the Chaitra month (the first month according to Hindu calendar). The festival commemorates the birth of Rama, who is remembered as righteous and mighty king and an incarnation of God on earth to fight the unreligious elements. This festival is held in high regard not only in India but also at all those countries where people of Hindu religion exist. This festival is celebrated with immense enthusiasm in Ayodhya, the birthplace of Shree Ram and in various other places in the country. In Ayodhya, a special Rathyatra (chariot procession) is taken out on this occasion, which is attended, by thousands of Ram devotees.

On Ramnavami, the devotees of Lord Ram observe whole day fast. It is said that fasting on this day helps one attain salvation. On this occasion, some of the devotees prefer to have a fasting with satvik food while many go for nirahar (without food) or nirjal (without water) fast. Those who go for the first kind of food are allowed eating potato, fruits, dairy items and rock salt (sendha namak) and are probhibited from eating any food that is considered adulterated according to Hindu shastra (texts). In our Ramnavami recipes section, we have given few traditional Ramnavami recipes based on these ingredients, which are not only very easy to make but extremely scrumptious to taste. We have given here two such scrumptious Ramnavami recipe, give a look…

Food Recipes For Ramnavmi

Sabudane Ki Kheer

Ingredients

1 litre Milk

1 cup Sugar

1 cup Water

1 cup Sago (Sabudana)

1 tbsp Cashew nut

1 tbsp Raisins

Method

Wash and drain Sabudana and keep it aside.

When it gets soft, add to boiling milk.

Boil milk till it thickens.

After the milk has become dense, dissolve the sugar in water and add to the milk.

Cook on medium heat stirring continuously, till thick.

Add the cashew nuts and other raisins.

Refrigerate and serve after half an hour.

Aalu Ki Subzi (Potato Curry)

Ingredients

3 potatoes (Boiled, peeled and thick sliced)

1 tsp Ghee

2-3 green Chilies (Chopped)

Sendha Namak (Rock Salt)

1/2 cup dhaniya/Cilantro leaves (Finely chopped)

Method

Heat the pan.

Add ghee in the pan.

After a minute add green Chilies and let them crackle.

Now add potatoes and salt.

Mix and Fry well.

Add water in accordance with the quantity of curry you want

Add dhaniya leaves for garnishing.

Serve with Roti / puri.

Ram Navami Quotes - Indian Festivals

Ram Navami festival commemorates the birth of Lord Shree Ram. Ram, the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, one of the three major gods of Hindu religion came to earth for killing Ravana and reestablishment of 'dharama' (religion). He was also born as idyllic example of perfect human being. Lord Rama through various incidents of his life taught the human beings what should be the ideal behavior of a perfect human being in the situations of loss, gain, pleasure and pain. The epics like Ramayana and Ramcharit Manas explain the real identity of Rama and significance of his existence on earth. It is said that the name of Ram is so pious that simply remembering his name by true heart vanishes all the sins of a man. Explore through this article some quotes about Ram that are often used on occasion like Ramnavami.

Popular Rama Navami Quotes

Rama for you should mean the Path He trod, the ideal He held aloft, and the Ordinance He lay down. They are eternal and timeless.”

The Immortal had come in the form of Rama to show the way to Immortality.

WHEN Rama is installed in the heart, every thing will be added unto you - fame, fortune, freedom, fullness.”

Now you worship His Form, you repeat His name; ignoring His orders. Without practicing the discipline laid down by Rama to purify the mind, all else is mere show, empty rituals.”

It is not enough, nor is it essential that you should repeat the name of Rama loudly; respect it in the fullness of love and admiration.”

Every one's voice was given equal weight in the empire ruled over by Rama.

THE greatest formula that can liberate, cleanse and elevate the mind is Rama-Name, the Name of Rama.”

From the fact that I had permitted them to announce My arrival for the function, they could well have inferred that the floods would subside and that I would be in their midst, for, once My word goes forth, it must happen accordingly. Do not doubt it. The furious waves calmed before Rama, the floods went down in time for Me.

Ram Navami Pooja - Indian Festivals

Ram Navami is celebrated with great zeal by Hindus all over the world. It is a festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Rama. Lord Rama, the son of King Dasharath and Queen Kaushalya is regarded as the avatara (incarnation) of Lord Vishnu, one of the supreme Hindu deity. According to the old Indian epics, Ram was born after a lot of prayers and yagya (holy bonfire) and as he was born as the royal inheritor of Ayodhya, his birth day was a joyous occasion in Ayodhya. It was very much like a dream come true for Dasharath as the lack of an heir was a big trouble for him even long after his marriage.

Reason Behind Rama Navami Puja

It is said that Lord Vishnu took the avatar of Rama when he saw the growing havoc of the invincible Ravana on earth. As it is said, when the troubles created by Ravana started increasing on earth, Lord Brahma started receiving complaints from all the gods about the mayhem that Ravana was inflicting on earth. However, as Lord had granted Ravana an exceptional boon that he could never be killed by a god, all the Gods in heaven had become helpless.

However as soon as Gods realized the loophole in his boon that Ravana had not asked for invincibility from a human being, Lord Vishnu decided to go to earth in the guise of Maryada Pushottam Ram, the son of King Dasharath and Queen Kaushalya to save the earth and his devotees from the wrathes of Ravana and his unreligious measures. This great legend is known to every Indian irrespective of caste, creed and religion.

Lord Rama is worshipped in the country as an epitome of an ideal man. One who is good and true and the one who is ideal in every regard- a perfect son, an ideal brother, a wonderful husband, a mighty king and a great father. He is not simply thought of a hero, but as someone who is the true representation of a flawless man. Therefore, it is no surprise that his birthday is celebrated year after year with great enthusiasm on the ninth day after the new moon in Shukal Paksh (the waxing moon), which falls sometime in the month of April.

Doing Pooja On Ramnavmi

Ramnavami Pooja is held in high regards by all the Hindus all over the world. Most of the people prefer to observe a whole day fast on this day. Generally devotees prefers to be on a satvik food without salt, however there are people who also go for Nirjal fast that is fast even without water. Those who are satvik fast consume potatoes made in any form without haldi (turmeric), garlic, ginger or onion. He can also eat fruit and root vegetables of any kind. Curd, tea, coffee, milk, and water are also permitted.

There is no very specific ritual to perform pooja. People visit temples and listen to stories of Ram janam (Rama's birth) and various other legends from Ramayana. Devotees also sing bhajans praising the deeds of Lord Rama, his loyal brother Lakshman, his devoted wife Sita and Rama's greatest devotee Hanuman. If the pooja is preformed at home, the home is first of all cleaned properly and pictures of Lord Rama, Lakshman, Sita and Hanuman are put on a dais in preparation for the puja.

All the members of the family together worship the deity on his birthday. Devotees offer flowers, sweets and light diyas and incense sticks in order to please Lord Rama and his consort. Two thaalis are kept ready infront of the deities. One thali containing the prasada and the other containing necessary items like roli, aipun, rice, water, flowers, bell and conch for the pooja rituals. After lighting the diyas and incense sticks, devotees sprinkle holy water, roli, and aipun and rice on the deities. They also read out holy mantras in order to please thje deity. After the pooja is done, an aarti is performed and the holy water from the pooja is sprinkled over the devotees as a sign of blessing and auspiciousness from God. The youngest female member of the family then applies teeka to all the male members of the family. At the last the holy prasad is distributed among all the people who have gathered for worship.

Ram Navami Poems - Indian festivals

Ramnavami is one of the most popular festivals in India. It is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm throughout the country in order to commemorate the birth of Lord Ram. This occasion is considered to be an extremely auspicious and pious occasion by all the Hindus as Lord Ram is considered to be the incarnation of Lord Vishnu on earth. It is said that Ram was born as an idyllic example to all the human beings to set the parameter of perfection in a man's existence. He was an ideal son, a doting husband, a loving brother, a perfect father and a mighty king. A lot of poets, have written odes and bhajans in the name of Lord Ram. One of them is given along with its translation below.

Popular Rama Navami Poem

Kosalendraya , mahaneeya gunabhdhaye

Kosalendraya , mahaneeya gunabhdhaye,

Chakravarthi thanujaaya sarva bhoumaya Mangalam.

Vedavedantha vedhyaya , Megha Shyamala moorthaye,

Pumsaam mohana roopaya , punyaslokaya Mangalam.

Viswamithrantharangaya , mithila nagari pathe,

Bhagyaanaam paripakaya , bhavya roopaya Mangalam.

Pithru bhakthaya sathatham brathrubhi saha seethaya,

Nandithakhila lokaya , Ramabhadraya Mangalam.

Thyaktha saketha vasaya , chithra koota viharine,

Sevyaya sarva yaminaam , dheerodhayaya Mangalam.

Soumithrina cha janakya chapa banasi dharine,

Samsevyaya sada bhakthya , swamine mama Mangalam.

Danda karanya vasaya , khara dhooshana sathrave,

Grudhra rajaya Bhakthaya , mukthi dayasthu Mangalam.

Sadaram Sabari datha phala moola abhilashine,

Soulabhya paripoornaa, sathvodrikthaya Mangalam,

Hanumath sama vethaya , harresabheeshta dhayine,

Bali pramadhanayasthu , Maha dheeraya Mangalam.

Srimathe Raghu veeraya , sethullangitha sindhave,

Jitha rakshasa Rajaya , Rana dheeraya Mangalam.

Vibheeshana kruthe preethya , lankabheeshta pradhayine,

Sarva loka saranyaya , Sri Raghavaya Mangalam.

Asadhya nagarem divyamabhishikthaya Seethaya,

Rajadhi rajaya Rama Bhadraya Mangalam.

Brahmadhi deva sevyaya , brahmanyaya mahathmane,

Janaki prana nadhaya , Ragu nadhaya Mangalam.

Sri soumya jamathru mune krupaya smanu peyushe,

Mahathe mama nadhaya , Raghu nadhya Mangalam.

Mangala sasana paraiir madacharya purogamai,

Saescha poorvairacharyai , sathkruthayasthu Mangalam

Ramya jamathru muneena , mangala sasanam krutham,

Trilokyadhipathi Sriman , karothu Mangalam sada.

Ithi Sri vara vara muni swami krutha , sri rama mangala sasanam sampoornam

English Translation

Let good happen to Rama ,

Who is the king of Kosala,

And the ocean of good qualities

Let good happen to Rama,

Who is son of emperor Dasaratha,

And who is a very great king.

Let good happen to Rama,

Who is venerated by Vedas and Vedanta,

Who is of the black colour of the rich cloud,

Who is one of the prettiest among men,

And who has a fame which is pure.

Let good happen to Rama,

Who is a confidant of Viswamithra,

Who is the matured luck of ,

The king of Mithila and ,

Is the form of pure humility.

Let good happen to Ramabhadra,

Who is a devotee of his father,

Who shines with Sita and his brothers,

And who makes the entire world happy.

Let good happen to Lord Rama,

Who is courageous and kind,

Who left the city of Ayodhya,

And lived in the forest of Chithrakoota,

And who served all great sages.

Let good happen to my Lord Rama,

Who was with Lakshmana and Sita,

Who was armed with sword and bow,

And who is always served by devotees.

Let good happen to the giver of salvation,

Who lived in the forest of Danda karanya,

Who was the enemy of Asuras, Khara and Dhooshana,

And who was greatly devoted to Jatayu , the king of birds.

Let good happen to him who has lot of good qualities

Who liked the fruits and roots offered by Shabhari.

And can be fully realized, extremely easily.

Let good happen to the God who is very brave,

Who can be easily be attained by Hanuman,

Who used to fulfill desires of King Sugreeva,

And who wounded and killed the great Bali.

Let good happen to the God who is brave in battle,

Who is the valorous hero of the clan of Raghu,

Who built the bridge over the sea,

And who won over the king of Rakshasas.

Let good happen to Lord Raghava,

Who presented with happiness Lanka,

To Vibheeshana due to his love,

And who has the entire world as devotees.

Let good happen to Lord Raghava,

Who was crowned along with Sia,

When he returned back to the city of Ayodhya,

And who is the king of all kings.

Let good happen to the Lord of the Raghu clan,

Who is served by Lord Brahma and other devas,

Who protected Vedas and Brahmins,

And who was the king of the soul of Janaki.

Let good happen to the Lord of the Raghu clan,

Who was got to us by the grace of the saint Jamathru,

Who is my Lord who is on of the greatest.

Let good happen to the Lord who only did good,

The salutary song about him is greatest by my teacher,

Grater than all that is written by previous great teachers

This song praying for good to the lord,

Written by the handsome sage Jamatha,

Wishes for all good all times,

To Lord Rama who is the king of three worlds.

Thus ends the song of good for Lord Rama, written by the sage Vara vara muni

Ram Navami Mantra - Indian Festivals

Ram Navami is celebrated in order to commemorate the birth of Lord Rama. As Rama was considered the seventh incarnation of Lord Maha Vishnu, the festival is held in high regard by Hindus all over the world. On this day, the devotees of Ram all over the world observe fast and engage in the worship of Ram. It is said that Ram Navami is one of the most ancient festivals in the country and when, there was class division in the society Ramnavami was one of the few festival that the shudras (lower class) people were allowed to celebrate, so from time immemorial, Ram Navami is the festival of masses.

Apart from God or avtar (incarnation) of God, Lord Ram is regarded as an ideal king, ideal son, ideal husband and an ideal brother. It is said that Ram naam (the name of Lord Rama) in itself is a divine mantra and simply chanting this Ram (Ra ma) helps one to attain salvation. The Mantra ‘Ra ma’ is called the Thaaraka mantra. It is a combination of 'Namasivaya mantra' and the 'Om Namo Narayanaya maha mantra' thereby representing the union of Shiva and Narayana. Another popular mantra of Rama is "Shri Ram, Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram". Few other Ram mantras are-

Shri Rama Mantras

Rama Mantra

Neelambhuj shyamalkomlang Sita Samaropitvambhagam

Pano Mahasaikacharoochapam

Namame Ramam Raghuvanshnatham

Rama Gayatri Mantra

Om Daserathaya Vidhmahe

Sita Vallabhaya Dheemahe

Thanno Rama Prachodayath.

Ram Navami Legends - Indian Festivals

Ram Navami is a famous Hindu festival, which celebrates the birth of Lord Rama. It falls on the ninth day of the shukla paksha, or bright phase of the moon, in the lunar month of Chaitra (April-May). Rama is amongst the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu and also one of the two most popular avatars, along with Lord Krishna. Consequently, Rama Navami is widely celebrated across India. Lord Rama is considered to be the epitome of perfection, the uttama purusha, fulfilling all his duties towards both family and subjects.

It is believed that listening to the story of Rama cleanses the soul. Meditating on the noble Rama and chanting his name is believed to ease the pains of life and lead one to moksha, or liberation. It is also common practice to chant the name of Rama while rocking babies to sleep. The public worship starts from the early morning on the auspicious day of Ram Navami. People keep a fast throughout the day, breaking it only at midnight with fruit. In some parts of India, public gatherings called satsangs are organized to commemorate the birth of Rama. People of all castes and creeds participate in these gatherings to listen to the stories and their explanations offered by the learned.

Legends Of Ram Navami

Birth Of Lord Rama

The country of Kosal was situated on the banks of the river Sharayu. During the reign of king Dasarath, Ayodhya reached a period of great prosperity. However, Dasarath faced a big problem - he had no children. Therefore, he decided to perform a sacrifice known as “ashvamedh”, or horse-sacrifice. Elaborate and difficult rituals had to be observed. A very holy man, rishi Rishyashring, was chosen to conduct the sacrifice with the utmost accuracy. The performance of this sacrifice was a great event in Ayodhya. At the end, Rishyashring recited a mantra and made an offering to the fire. Then the gods, Gandharvas, Siddhas, and Rishis present arid began to pray to Lord Brahma, the Creator of Hindu Trinity.

At that time, Ravana (king of Lanka) was terrorizing the people, and all were longing for liberation from his menace. Ravana was invincible, because Lord Brahma gave him a boon according to which, he would never die at the hands of gods, or Gandharvas, Or Yakshas (demigods) or demons. As he was not afraid of humankind, he did not care to include men in the list of his potential slayers. Therefore, Brahmadev declared that Ravan would die at the hands of a man. Then the gods went to Vishnu with the request, “Dasarath is a glorious king. Please, take birth in the wombs of his three queens in four different degrees of your divinity.”

When Dasarath’s sacrifice ended, a shining figure appeared over the sacrificial homa kund, and offered the king a divine beverage called “payasam” to be given to his queens Kausalya, Kaikayi, and Sumitra. In due time, Kausalya gave birth to Rama, Kaikayi to Bharat and Sumitra to Laxman and Shatrugna. Rama was born at noon of the bright ninth day of Chaitra. He was believed to be the embodiment of half degree of Vishnu’s divinity, (Ardha Ounsh). His birth is celebrated as Ram Navami, with pomp and geity.

Ram Navami History - Indian Festival

Ram Navami is a popular Hindu festival. It is celebrated on the ninth day (Navami) of the Chaitra month of Hindu lunar year in 'Shukla paksha' or waxing moon. This festival is celebrated in order to commemorate the birth of Marayada Purshottam Ram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This day also known as Sri Rama Navami, marks the end of nine-day Chaitra-Navratri celebrations. The festival of Ram Navami is held in high regard not only by the people in India but also by the Hindu community living in the other parts of the world. The festival is celebrated with immense joy and enthusiasm. Many devotees also fast on this occasion. It is believed that all the devotees who fast on this day are showered with immense happiness and good luck by Lord Rama. Read on, if you want to explore about the origin and history if this festival.

Origin Of Rama Navami

According to the great epic Ramayana, once upon a time there lived a King named Dasarath, then king of Ayodhya, who had three wives named Kaushalya, Sumithra and Kaikeyi. As even long after his marriages, Dasarath was not blessed with a child, this has become a question of worry for him. Even the people of Ayodhya were disheartened because they had not heir to their kingdom. At this stage, Rishi Vasistha suggests Dasarath to perform Puthra Kamesti Yagna, through which he can have a desired child.

Soon King Dasharath agreed to do the Yagya and headed to Maharshi Rushya Shrunga's ashram, to get him for performing the yagya. Maharshi agreed and accompanied Dasharath to Ayodhya to solemnize the perform Puthra Kamesti Yagna. As the result of yagna, Yagneshwar appeared and hands Dasarath a bowl of kheer and asked him to feed this to his three wives. Dasarath did the same. He gave one half of the kheer to his elder wife Kausalya, and another half to his younger wife Kaikeyi. These two gave one half each of their kheer to Sumithra.

After few days all the three Queens conceived Dasratha's child. On the ninth day (Navami) of Chaithra Masa (first month in Hindu calendar), at noon Kaushlya gave birth to Lord Sri Ram, Kaikeyi gave birth to Bharath, and Sumithra gave birth to twins, Lakshman and Shatrughan. It was the day of joyous celebrations in Ayodhya. This day since then is celebrated as an auspicious occasion by the devotees.

History Of Ramnavami

Ram Navami is one of the most ancient festivals celebrated in India. It is said that the date of Ram Navami can be traced back to the pre-christian era, as Hinduism is the oldest religion of the world. The reference of Ramnavami can also be found in the Kalika puran. It is said in the earlier times, when caste system was prevalent in India; Ramnavami was one of the few festivals that the lower castes (shudras) were allowed to celebrate. In Hindu religion, it is considered to one of the five major sacred festivals and it is said that, properly observing this fast leads to the attainment of salvation.

Ram Navami Cards - Indian Festival

Today, a number of gift galleries have come up with attractive greeting cards for various ceremonious occasion. It is not surprising to see greeting cards for Hindu festivals flocking the markets, because sending and receiving cards has become customary amongst the people. Greeting cards for religious occasions such as Ram Navami are also available, in most of the gift galleries. Rama Navami cards act as a wonderful means to communicate the enthusiasm for the festival and immense faith in Lord Rama. Greeting cards are exchanged between friends, relatives and even family members, in order to spread good cheer. Go through the following lines to know all about Rama Navami cards.

Rama Navami Cards

Greeting Cards

With the increasing competitiveness, the gift shops are providing a lot of variety in the greeting cards for religious festivals like Ram Navami. Varied forms of Rama Navami greeting cards have flocked the shelves of the gift galleries, because in the recent years, the demand for the product has increased considerably. A remarkable boost in the variety of the product has given way to increased sales of the same. Today, apart from the traditional mid-sized ones, you can get oversized cards as well as small sized ones, which can easily fit into your palm. Since the festival has religious significance, greeting cards are available in both Hindi and English languages.

In the present time, the greeting cards for Hindu festivals like Rama Navami have become very expressive. The quotations included in the cards carry the real essence of the festival. Quotes from Ramayana are often used for the cards. The love, devotion and respect for Lord Rama are clearly expressed by the quotes. While most of the quotations used for the greeting cards are serious, you can also find funny quotes in them.

Homemade Cards

If you want to show your enthusiasm for the festival of Ram Navami and your devotion to the deity, then send handcrafted cards to your friends and relatives. Handcrafted cards are always in vogue, because they depict what is in mind of the sender and convey exactly what he/she wants to say to the receiver. Many people send handmade greeting cards to their loved ones, on Rama Navami. Apart from being a personalized way to convey messages, homemade cards are easy on the pocket.

E-Cards

In the technologically-driven society, people are opting for easier and quicker ways to send their wishes on festivals and other ceremonious occasions. The trend of sending e-cards for every other festival has been followed since a long time. In the present time, since Internet provides easy access to all kinds of information, people find it easy to connect to their loved ones. Sending wishes and e-cards during festivals has become a hot trend. A number of websites are offering attractive e-cards for almost every occasion and Ram Navami is no exception. You can now get a wide variety of attractive Rama Navami E-cards - both animated and non-animated - and send them free of cost, to your loved ones.

Ram Navami Fast - Indian Festival

Ram Navami is one of the prominent festivals of Hindus in India. The festival, which marks the birth of Lord Rama - the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu - is celebrated with gusto, by people in different parts of the country. According to the legends, Lord Rama was born as the eldest son of Dashratha, the king of Ayodhya, and Kaushalya. Lord Rama is worshiped as one of the most influential deities - he is regarded the epitome of humankind, a perfect son, an ideal husband and father. In fact, he is one among the most worshipped Gods of Hinduism. Many Hindu temples in India are especially dedicated to the deity. On the auspicious occasion of Rama Navami, Lord Rama temples are flocked by his devotees.

The celebrations of Ram Navami are marked by fasting, chanting mantras and singing bhajans in the praise of Lord Rama. Although people in different parts of the country celebrate the festival in their own ways, the thought amongst them remains one and the same - to offer their prayers to the deity and honor his birth. Out of the traditions of Ram Navami, fasting stands out as one of the most popular ones, followed since ages. On the wonderful occasion of Rama Navami, the devotees of Lord Rama observe a whole-day fast, as a part of the festivities. After offering prayers to the deity, they break the fast in the midnight, by eating fruit. Explore the article to know more about Ram Navami fast (vrat).

Ram Navami Vrat

The followers of Lord Rama would observe a whole-day fast on the festival of Ram Navami. The fast is also called vrat. Although it is not mandatory to observe a waterless fast (nirahar vrat), many people observe a stringent fast, when they would not drink a drop of water until midnight, when they break the fast. On the other hand, those who prefer to follow a particular diet for the fast, are recommended to eat certain foodstuffs including potatoes made in any form without haldi (turmeric), garlic, ginger or onion. Sendha namak (rock salt) is used for the preparation of food for Rama Navami fast. While on a fast, the person can also eat curd, milk, tea, coffee, fruits and root vegetanbles.

Significance Of Fasting On Ram Navami

Like most of the Hindu festivals, fasting holds special significance in the celebrations of Ram Navami too. It is believed that when a devotee observes fast on Rama Navami, with sincerity and immense devotion, he/she is blessed with health, wealth and prosperity for the year ahead. Therefore, it has been a tradition since a long time to observe fast on the festival. This perception has been supported by the ancient religious texts of Hinduism, according to which, fasting is the only mean of gaining happiness it the material world and achieving salvation at the same time. Moreover, Rama Navami vrat is considered as the five of the most important fasts in the ancient times

Ram Navami Date - Indian Festivals

The festival of Ram Navami is dedicated to Lord Ram. It is celebrated with immense zeal and enthusiasm throughout India. On this occasion, all the people following the Hindu religion pray and chant the name of Lord Ram. Even Hindus who are living outside Indian observe this day as an auspicious and festive occasion. Pooja is organized in several temples and the devotees of Lord Ram immerse themselves completely in the colors of his devotion. They narrate and listen to the legends of Ram, chant his name, recite sholkas and mantras associated with him and dance to the tunes of Ram bhajans.

When is Rama Navami

Though the festival is celebrated in a grand manner everywhere in the country, the Ramnavami festival at Ayodhya, the birth place of Shree Ram is celebrated with extreme zeal and enthusiasm. Every year on Ramnavami, people of Ayodhya take out a chariot procession (Rath Yatra) in order to commemorate the existence of the almighty on earth. On the ninth day of Chaitra month (the first month of a Hindu calender) when Lord Rama was born, Hindus all over the world celebrate this festival. The date of Ramnavami is decided according to the Hindu lunar calendar. As per the Gregorian calendar, the month of Chaitra corresponds to the month of March-April.

On Ramnavami, the celebrations begin with a prayer to the Sun early in the morning. A special prayer is arranged for the midday, when Lord Rama is supposed to have been born. Throughout the day, couplets of Ramayana and Ramscharit Manas are narrated in the temples. People sing bhajans, chant the Ramnam (name of Ram), and seek the blessings of the almighty. Many of the devotees also observe a whole day fast on this occasion.

In north India, especially in Ayodhya, the devotees of Lord Rama take out Ramnavami procession. This procession consists of a merrily decorated chariot with four persons dressed up as Rama, Laxman, Sita and Hanuman. The chariot is accompanied by thousands of Ram devotees. They move with the procession of Ram and Sita throughout the city and chant the name of Shree Ram with great vigor and enthusiasm. The entire procession is a gusty affair with all the devotees echoing the happy days of Rama's reign.

Ram Navami Date

Ram Navami 2010 will be celebrated on 24th of March (Wednesday)

Ram Navami Celebrations - Indian Festival

Ram Navami is a Hindu festival celebrated with fun and religious fervor by Hindus across different parts of India. The festival commemorates the birth of Lord Rama, one of the most worshipped Hindu Gods. He is regarded as the epitome of humankind, the ideal son, husband and father. Every year, Ram Navami falls on the ninth day of the Chaitra month of Hindu lunar year in 'Shukla paksha' or waxing moon, which corresponds to March-April as per the Gregorian calendar. The celebrations of the festival are marked by stringent fasting by the devotees of Lord Rama. The festival marks the end of the nine-day festivities of Chaitra Navratri. Know more about the celebrations of Rama Navami, in the article.

Rama Navami Festival Celebrations

The celebrations of Rama Navami start with the worship of Sun God. On the day, people wake up early in the morning, take bath and pay honors to Sun God. Thereafter, they would chant mantras of Lord Rama and offers fruits and flowers to the deity. The devotees of Lord Rama would observe a whole-day fast on the festival, which they would break only in the midnight, by eating a fruit. In many parts of India, satsangs are organized by cultural committees to commemorate the birth of Lord Rama. The congregation of the devotees would sing bhajans, chant mantras in the praise of the God and listen to the legendary stories.

As a part of the celebrations, people would keep their home clean and decorate it beautifully. In the households where pujas are conducted, the pictures of Lord Rama, his wife Sita and brother Lakshman are hung. The devotees would offer flowers, burn dhoop and incense sticks. A thali used for the performance of the pooja would typically contain prasad and other items necessary for the ritual, including roli (sacred tilak), rice, lota (container filled with water), flowers, a bell, earthen lamp or deep and a conch. Everyone in a family takes part in the puja, which is conducted by the elderly member of the family. While worshipping the deity, songs are sung. When the puja is over, prasad is distributed among all the people gathered for the worship of Lord Rama.

In many parts of India, typically South India, small idols of Lord Rama and Sita are worshipped in the households, which are take to a procession on the streets, in the evening. In many temples, Kalyanam' (a ceremonial wedding) is performed by the temple priests. Panakam, a sweet drink prepared by mixing jaggery with ginger and pepper, is a specialty of Ram Navami in southern parts of India. The dish is prepared as a prasad. It is first offered to the deity, and then distributed amongst the devotees. When the idols of the deity are taken to a procession, the devotees often play with water and colors, to mark the birth of the God.

Ram Navami Bhajans - Indian Festivals

Ram Navami is celebrated with immense joy and fervor by all the Ram devotees throughout the world. Despite being one of the most ancient festivals in the world, Ram Navami does not involve extreme intricate rituals and traditions. Though, it is made a highly vibrant and gusto affair by the Ram devotees, traditionally Ram Navami does not call for any special preparation. It is simply about remembering Ram and following the path of dharma (religion) that he showed us. People on this day observe fast, chant Ram's name and sing Ram bhajan entire Ramnavami day. If you also want to explore some interesting Ram bhajans, here are few.

Popular Rama Navami Bhajans

Hey Ram

Hey Ram, hey Ram, hey Ram, hey Ram,

Jag Mein Sacho Tero Naam. Hey Ram...

Tu Hi Mata, Tu Hi Pita Hai;

Tu hi hai Radha ka Shyam.

Tu antaryami, saba ka Swami;

tere charno me charo dham.

Tu hi bigare, tu hi savare,

es jag ke sare kaam.

Tu Hi Jagdatta, Vishava Vidhata;

Tu Hi Subah Ho, Tu Hi Sham

Hey Ram, Hey Ram, Hey Ram, Hey Ram,

Jag Me Sacho Tero Naam

Mangal Bhawan Amangal Haari

Mangal Bhawan Amangal Haari

Dhurvhu sudasrath achar bihari

Ram siya Ram siya Ram

Jai Jai Ram.

Ho, hoihee wohi jo Ram rucj rakha

ko kare taraf badhaye sakha

Ho, dheeraj dharam mitra aru nari

aapad kal parakhiye chari

Ho, Jahike jehi par satya sanehu

So tehi milay na kachu sandehu

Ho jaki rahi bhavna jaisi

raghu murati dekhi tin taisi

Raghukul reet sada chali aayi

Pran jaye par vachan na jai

Ram siya Ram siya Ram

Jai Jai Ram.

Ho, hari anant hari katha ananta

kehhi sunehi bahuvidhi sab santa

Ram siya Ram siya Ram

Jai Jai Ram.

Ram Apni Kripa se

Ram apni kripa se

Ram apni kripa se mujhe bhakti de

Ram apni kripa se mujhe shakti de..

Naam japta rahu, kaam karta rahu

Tan se seva karu, man se sayam karu

Naam japta rahu, kaam karta rahu

Shree ram jai ram jai jai ram

Ram japo ram dekho

Ram japo ram dekho, ram ke bharose raho

Ram kaaj karte raho, ram ke bharose raho

Ram japo ram dekho, ram ke bharose raho

Ram kaaj karte raho, ram ko rijhate raho

Ram Chalisa - Indian festivals

Ram chalisa is a usual practice in Hindu houses, where Shri Rama is regarded as the main deity. Especially after the puja or after the recitation of Ramayan or Ramcharitmanasa, the chalisa is performed at the end, along with the Ram Aarti. It is believed that reading or even listening to Ram Chalisa daily liberates a person from the sins of life and helps him attain moksha. It is also believed that the person who reads Ram chalisa gets special blessings from the Lord. You can also read the Ram Chalisa given below and recite it while praying to the Lord.

Ram Chalisa

Ganapati charan saroj gahi

Charanodak dhari bhal,

Likhau vimal Ramavali, sumiri Anjanilal.

Ram charit varnan Karaun, Ramahin hridai manai.

Madan kadan ral rakhishir, man kahan tap mitai.

Ram Ramapati Raghupati jai jai

Maha-Lokpati Jagpati jai jai.

Rajit Janak dulari jai jai

Mahinandan Prabhu-pyari jai jai.

Ratihun divas Ram dhun jahin

Magan rahat man, tan dukh nahin.

Ram saneh jasu ur hoi

Maha bhagyashali nar soi.

Rakshas dal sanhari jai jai

Maha patit tanu tari jai jai.

Ram nam jo nishdin gavat

Man vanchhit phal nishchai pavat.

Ramayudhsar jehin kar sajat

Man manoj lakhi kotihun Iajat.

Rakhahu laj hamari jai jai

Mahima agam tumhari jai jai

Rajiv nayan munin man mohai

mukut manohar shir par sohai.

Rajit mridul gat shuchi anan

Makarakrit kundal duhun kanan.

Ramchandra sarvottam jai jai

Maryada Purshottam jai jai

Ram nam gun agam ananta

Manan karat sharad shruti santa.

Rati divas dhyavahu man Rama

Man ranjan bhanjan bhav dama.

Raj bhavan, sang men nahin jaihain

Man ke hi man men rahi jaihain

Ramhin nam ant sukh daihain

Man gadhant gap kam na aihain.

Ram kahani Ramahin sunihain

Mahima Ram tabai man gunhain.

Ramhi mahan jo nit chit rakhihain

Madhukar saris madhur ras chakhihain.

Rag rang kahun kirtan thani hain

Mamta tyagi ek ras janihain.

Ram kripa tinhin par hvai hain

Man vanchhit phal abhimal paihain.

Rakshas daman kiyo jo chhan men

Maha banhu bani vicharyo van men.

Ravanadi hati gati, dai dinhyo

Mahi Ravanahin Siya vadh kinhyo.

Ram ban sut sursari dhara

Maha patkihun gati dai dara.

Ram ramit jag amit ananta

Mahima kahi na sakahin shruti santa.

Ram nam joi det bhulai

Maha nisha soi let bulai.

Ram bina ur hot andhera

man sohi dukh sahat ghanera.

Ramahi adi anadi kahavat

Mahavrti Shankar-gun gavat.

Ram nam lahi Brahma apara

Mahikar bhar shesh shir dhara.

Rakhi Ram hiya Shambhu sujana

Maha ghor vish kinhyo pana.

Ramahi mahi-lakhi lekh Maheshu

Maha pujya kari diyo Ganeshu.

Ram ramit ras ghatit bhakti ghat

Man ke bhajatahin khulat prem pat

Rajit Ram jinahin ur antar

Mahavir sam bhakta nirantar.

Ramahi linha ek sahara

Maha sindhu Kapi kinha para

Ram nam rasna ras shobha

Mardan kam krodh mad lobha.

Ram charit bhaji bhayo sugyata

Mahadeva mukti ke data.

Ramahi japat mitat bhav shula

Ram mantra yah mangal mula.

Ram nam japi jo na sudhara

Man pishach so nipat ganvara.

Ram ki mahima kahan lag gaun

mati malin man par na paun.

Ramavaii as likhi chalisa

Mati anusar dhyan Gaurisa.

Ramahi sundar rachi ras paga Math Durvasa nikat Prayaga.

Ram bhakt yahin jo nit dhyavahin

Man vanchhit phal nischai pavahin.

Doha

Ram nam nit bhajahu man. ratihun din chitlai.

Mamta matsar malinata. manastap miti jai.

Ram ka tithi budh Rohiini, Ramavali kiyabhas.

Man sahastra bhuj drug samat, magsar Sundardas.

Ram Aarti - Ram Navmi Festival of India

Aarti refer to the song sung in praise of the deity. Aarti is performed and sung to develop the highest love for God. "Aa" means "towards or to", and "rati" means "right or virtue" in Sanskrit language. In the other words, it is a song praising the virtues of the deity. Aarti is generally performed at the end of a puja or bhajan session. It is sung, as a part of the puja ceremony, on almost all Hindu ceremonies and occasions. While communal aarti is performed in the mandir; devotees also perform it individually, in their home. Hinduism has a long tradition of aarti songs and there are different aartis for different Hindu Gods. In this article we have listed the aarti of Lord Rama.

Ram Aarti

Shri Ramachandra kripalu bhaju man,

haran bhav bhai darunam.

Nav kanj lochan, kanj mukh,

kar kanj pad kanjarunam

Kandarp aganit amit chhavi,

Navvnil jiraj sundaram,

pat pit manahun tadit ruchi,

Suchi naumi Janakasutavaram.

Bhuj din bandu dinesh danav,

dusht dalan nikandanam,

Raghunand anand kand Kaushal,

chandra Dashrath nandanam.

Sir krit kundaltilak charu,

udar ang vibhushanam,

Ajanubhuj san-chap dhar,

sangramajit kharadushanam.

iti badit Tulasidas Shankar,

shesh muni man ranjanam,

Mam hridai kanj nivas kar,

kamadi khal dal bhanjanam.

Manujahi racheu milahi so bar sahaj sundarsanvaro,

Karuna nidhan sujan silu sanehu janat ravaro.

Ehi bhanti Gauri asis suni,

Siya sahit hiya harshin ali,

TuIsi bhavanihin puji-puni mudit man mandir chali.

Jani Gauri anukal,

Siya hiya harshu na jai kahi,

Manjul mangal mul,

bam ang pharkan lage.

Ram Navami - Indian Festivals

At that time Ravan, king of Lanka, was terrorizing the people, and all were longing for liberation from his menace. Ravan had acquired great power because he had obtained from god Brahma the boon that he would never die at the hands of gods, or gandharvas, or yakshas (demigods) or demons. As he was not afraid of men he did not care to include men in the list of his potential slayers. So Brahmadev declared that Ravan would die at the hands of a man. Then the gods went to Vishnu with the request, “Dasarath is a glorious king. Please, take birth in the wombs of his three queens in four different degrees of your divinity.”

When Dasarath’s sacrifice came to an end a shining figure appeared over the sacrificial kund, and offered the king a divine beverage called “payasam” to be given to his queens Kausalya, Kaikayi, and Sumitra. In due time Kausalya gave birth to Rama, Kaikayi to Bharat and Sumitra to Laxman and Shatrugna. Rama was born at noon of the bright ninth day of Chaitra. He was believed to be the embodiment of half degree of Vishnu’s divinity, (ardha ounsh).

Legend:

Four storeys - even the original Ravana may not have been so tall. But this is the Kali Yuga, when evil is supposed to assume an even more terrifying form. Ravana has his moments of glory, and that too, on Rama Navami, the birthday of Rama.

The effigy of the ten-headed Ravana swaggers through the town, wearing a gaudy crown and exaggerated moustache, with shouting hordes following. But once Ravana reaches the open ground that is his final destination, he is suddenly deserted by most of his "followers" - because the noble Rama has made his appearance.

In the end, righteousness does triumph, even in Kali Yuga. Rama engages him in battle, and finally pierces him with a potent arrow. And the huge effigy of Ravana, filled to bursting with firecrackers, is set alight, and explodes into a thousand bits amid loud cheers from the crowd and shouts of Jai Shri Ram. This ritual is an important part of the Rama Navami celebrations in most parts of North India.

Rama Navami falls on the ninth day of the shukla paksha, or bright phase of the moon, in the lunar month of Chaitra (April-May). The first day of Chaitra , or Ugadi, also marks the beginning of the Indian year.

Rama is one of the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, and one of the two most popular, along with Krishna. Consequently, Rama Navami is widely celebrated, though not on the scale of festivals like Diwali or Dussehra.

According to legend, Rama was born at noon. Rama is the epitome of perfection, the uttama purusha, fulfilling all his duties towards both family and subjects.

Rama was the first of the four sons of King Dasharatha of Ayodhya. When it was time for Rama to be made crown-prince, his stepmother, Kaikeyi, got Dasharatha to send him to the forest for 14 years. His wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana also accompanied him. In the forest, Sita was kidnapped by Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. Rama, together with Hanuman and the monkey army, built a bridge to Lanka, killed Ravana, and brought Sita back.

It is believed that listening to the story of Rama cleanses the soul. Meditating on the noble Rama and chanting his name is believed to ease the pains of life and lead one to moksha, or liberation. It is also common practice to chant the name of Rama while rocking babies to sleep.

Significance:

Though Rama Navami is a major festival for Vaishnavites, it is widely celebrated by worshippers of Shiva, too. It is considered auspicious to undertake a fast on the day in the name of Rama. The more devout fast for nine days, from Ugadi to Rama Navami. The objective of the fast is not to ask for special favours of the deity but to seek perfection as a human being. Devotees perform elaborate pujas and chant the name of Rama. Temples of Rama have special services and bhajan sessions through the day.

One significant and popular element of the celebration is the Ramayana parayana, a discourse on the Ramayana, by a pundit or a professional story-teller. It usually lasts nine days, beginning on Ugadi and ending on Rama Navami. A skilled story-teller who can liven up the event by weaving in contemporary events attracts massive crowds.

Since Rama is also one of the most sung-about deities in Indian classical music and literature, week-long (and sometimes, month-long) musical programmes are organised.

Sacred places associated with Rama, like Ayodhya, Ujjain and Rameshwaram, draw tens of thousands of devotees. In Rameshwaram, thousands take a ritual bath in the sea before worshipping at the Ramanathaswamy temple.

Many places in North India host fairs in connection with the festival, culminating in spectacular fireworks on Rama Navami.

Ram Navami 2010: 24 March.

Daal Vade - Indian Festival Recipe

The spring festival of Holi brings lots of excitement along with it. All through the day, people are busy in merrymaking and relishing on delicious sweets and scrumptious pakode. Taking thandai mixed with Bhang and several other kinds of drinks is also a trend on this occasion. Since pakoras and vadas make an interesting companion with these drinks, varieties of pakoda and vadas are made on the occasion of Holi. Kanje ke vade, made of Urad dal, red chillies and hing is one of the most scrumptious vada made on Holi. If you also relish on vadas and pakodas, you must try the Kanji ka vada once. It is very easy to make and does not take much time. The recipe is given below.

Kanji Ke Vade Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 kg Urad Dal
• 2 pcs (small) Hing
• 3 tsp Salt
• 4 tsp Rai (finely ground)
• 2 tsp Red Chilies (pounded)
• 6 jugs Water
• Oil, for deep frying
• Whole Red Chilies, for garnish

Method

1. Soak urad dal overnight and grind to the consistency of a cake batter.
2. Whisk the paste till it is fluffy.
3. Heat oil well in a deep frying pan.
4. Slide the small paste-parts into the heated oil and deep fry to a golden brown color.
5. Take care not to make the vadas too thick.
6. Take them out with a sieve type ladle and drain the oil completely.
7. Keep a tawa on the fire and heat crystals of hing on it.
8. As soon as it gives off the fragrance, turn an earthen pot on it.
9. Take it off the fire and fill it with warm water.
10. Mix rai, salt, red chilli powder and whole red chillies into the water.
11. Put the fried vadas into the matka.
12. Clean the top of the matka and cover it with a clean muslin cloth and securely tied.
13. Leave the matka in the sun during the day for eight days before it is ready to be served.
14. Makes about 1 Kg.

Time: 35min