Ram Navami 2024: Date, History, & All About Lord Rama's Birth Celebration

Ram Navami celebrates the birth of Lord Ram, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. It is observed on the 9th day of Chaitra, which falls in March or April. This year, Ram Navami will be celebrated on April 17. According to Drik Panchang, Navami Tithi starts at 01:23 PM on April 16 and ends at 03:14 PM on April 17.

Introduction to Ram Navami

Rama Navami is a joyous occasion that reaffirms faith and highlights the importance of following a righteous path. It’s a celebration not just of a deity’s birth, but also of the ideals he represents. Devotees observe fasting, perform puja (worship rituals) at home and temples, recite the Ramayana (epic tale of Rama), and participate in Ramlila (dramas enacting Rama’s life).

Meaning and Significance of Ram Navami

Ram Navami also marks the end of the Navaratri fasts. During this time, people worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga and pray for the well-being of their families and friends. Devotees also perform Kanya puja and offer prasad and gifts to girls and seek their blessing.

Legends and Stories Associated with Lord Rama

Lord Rama’s life is a rich tapestry woven with legends and stories that showcase his virtues and his battles against evil. Here are some of the most prominent ones:

1. The Birth and Early LifeLord Rama was born to King Dasharatha of Ayodhya and destined to be king. However, palace intrigue led to his exile for 14 years, showcasing his commitment to duty despite personal hardship.
2. Sita Swayamvara and AbductionRama won the hand of Sita, a princess known for her beauty and virtue, by stringing a mighty bow. During their exile, the demon king Ravana, enamored by Sita, abducted her, setting the stage for the epic battle.
3. The Journey to LankaRama, with his brother Lakshmana and the devoted monkey god Hanuman, embarked on a perilous journey to Lanka to rescue Sita. This journey highlights the importance of loyalty and perseverance.
4. The Loyalty of HanumanHanuman played a pivotal role. He infiltrated Lanka, met Sita, and ultimately burned down the city, showcasing unwavering devotion and courage.
5. The Battle with RavanaA fierce war ensued between Rama and Ravana. Rama, with his righteousness and archery skills, ultimately emerged victorious, demonstrating the triumph of good over evil.
6. The Ordeal of FireAfter rescuing Sita, Rama, due to doubts cast upon her purity, asked her to undergo a trial by fire. Sita emerged unscathed, proving her unwavering devotion.
7. Return to Ayodhya and CoronationRama finally returned to Ayodhya, where he was crowned king, marking the restoration of dharma (righteous order).

History of Ram Navami

The day marks the birth of Lord Ram. Devotees believe that on this day Dasharatha, the ruler of Ayodhya (a historical city in Uttar Pradesh), had his prayers fulfilled.

Foods to Eat and Avoid During Ram Navami

On Ram Navami, here is the list of food items you should eat and avoid.

1. What To AvoidRefrain from consuming tamasic foods, including alcohol, non-vegetarian meals and onions and garlic.
2. What To EatYou can prepare aloo curry using tomatoes and yoghurt and relish it with puri. Also you can enjoy a bowl of yummy halwa.

Ram Navami Wishes

1. May the divine grace of Lord Rama shower you with joy, peace, and prosperity.
2. On this auspicious occasion of Ram Navami, let us celebrate the ideals of righteousness and courage embodied by Lord Rama. Wishing you a blessed Ram Navami.
3. May the chants of “Jai Shri Ram” fill your heart with devotion and may the light of diyas illuminate your path.
4. As we celebrate Ram Navami, may we find the strength to overcome challenges and follow the path of dharma like Lord Rama. Shubh Ram Navami!
5. Wishing you a Ram Navami filled with the sweetness of bal mithai (sweets) and the joy of togetherness. May Lord Rama’s blessings be with you.

Ram Navami 2024 Bank Holiday

On Ram Navami, banks across India observe a holiday. However, it’s important to note that the specific dates for bank holidays can vary by state, as determined by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Banks across most regions of the country will remain closed on April 17 Banks across most regions of the country will remain closed on April 17. Check Full List Here.

Ram Navami 2024 Songs And Bhajans

While the festivities and Satvik food items have major significance during the Ram Navami celebration, this special occasion is also marked by singing and listening to devotional songs and bhajans related to Lord Rama.To make your celebrations of Ram Navami 2024 extra special add some musical touch to it, here are some popular devotional songs and bhajans to celebrate the birth of Lord Rama. Here is a full curated playlist to celebrate Ram Navami 2024.

Top Temples To Visit in India For Ram Navami Celebrations

The newly-built Ram temple in Uttar Pradesh’s Ayodhya is all decked up for Ram Navami celebrations on Wednesday. The festivities, which fall on the ninth day of the Chaitra month, mark Ram Lalla’s birth. This year, the auspicious occasion will be more special by ‘Surya Abhishek’ of Ram Lalla, when the sun’s rays will fall on the forehead of the deity’s idol at noon. Huge crowds are expected in Ayodhya on Ram Navami to witness the ‘Surya Abhishek’ or ‘Surya Tilak’ of Ram Lalla when the rays of the sun fall on his forehead. From the majestic Ayodhya Ram Mandir which is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram, to the serene Ramaswamy Temple in Tamil Nadu. Here is a list of temples where you can visit for Ram Navami celebrations.

Rama Navami FAQs

What is Rama Navami?

Rama Navami is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He is considered an ideal king and human due to his righteousness, good conduct, and virtue.

When is Rama Navami 2024?

Rama Navami falls on the ninth day of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the lunar cycle of Chaitra (March–April), the first month in the Hindu calendar. It usually occurs sometime in March or April. This year it will be celebrated on April 17.

What is the significance of Rama Navami?

• It celebrates the birth of Lord Rama, a revered deity in Hinduism.
• It marks the conclusion of the nine-day Chaitra Navratri festival.

How is Rama Navami celebrated?

1. Visiting temples dedicated to Lord Rama
2. Praying and fasting
3. Listening to spiritual discourses
4. Singing bhajans or kirtans (devotional songs)
5. Reciting the Ramayana, the epic tale of Lord Rama
6. Enacting or watching Ramlila plays that depict scenes from Rama’s life
7. Offering special prayers to Lord Rama in his infant form

Is it a government holiday in India?

Yes, Rama Navami is a government holiday in India. The festival is a joyous occasion that celebrates the ideals of Rama, such as righteousness, courage, and devotion.

What is the function of Ram Navami 2024 in Ram Mandir?

This year’s Ram Navami is particularly significant as it’s the first one after the inauguration of the grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. It’s a day to celebrate the birth of Lord Rama and will be a major festival at the temple.

What should we do on Ram Navami?

Devotees perform special pujas and prayers dedicated to Lord Rama.

The auspicious birth time of Lord Rama is observed with religious ceremonies.

Many devotees observe fasting and break it after performing puja.

Ratha Yatra or chariot processions are held in some places.

What Are The Timings Of Ayodhya Ram Mandir On 17th April, 2024?

Due to the anticipated large crowds for Ram Navami, the Ayodhya Ram Mandir Trust has made some changes:

1. No VIP DarshanFrom April 15 to 18, there will be no VIP entries. Any previously issued VIP passes for this period are cancelled.
2. Regular Darshan TimingsWhile the official timings haven’t been released yet, expect them to be extended to accommodate the larger number of devotees on Ram Navami.

SURYA TILAK PHOTOS

What is the Science Behind Surya Tilak of the Deity in Ayodhya Ram Mandir?

At 12 pm today, sun rays will light up the forehead of Ram Lalla, seated in the sanctum sanctorum of Ram Mandir, for around 2.5 minutes. The sunlight falling on Ram Lalla’s forehead will create a Surya Tilak. Scientists from IIT-Roorkee were roped in to design the Surya Tilak mechanism. They employed an apparatus with high-quality mirrors and lenses to precisely direct the Sun’s rays onto Ram Lalla’s forehead at a specific time.

Read More | When & Where to Watch ‘Surya Tilak’ of Ram Lalla LIVE ?