Sri Rama Navami

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In some parts of India, it is celebrated as a nine-day festival, coinciding with the conclusion of Vasanta Navaratri. On each of the nine days, a serialised enaction of Ramayana, the story of Rama, takes place in public places.

In some parts of India, especially Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, satsangs - public gatherings - are organised to commemorate the birth of Rama. Excerpts from the Ramacharitamanas, extolling the glory of Rama, are recited. People from all strata of the Hindu society gather to listen to the stories and their explanations offered by the learned.

In North India, this event involves Ramnavami procession. The main attraction in this procession is a gaily decorated chariot in which four persons are dressed as Rama, his brother Laxman, his queen Sita and his disciple, Hanuman.

Scriptures dictate that the most important observation to be made on this day is that the Tidhi beginning before sunrise should be Navami. In such a situation, the devotees fast in the morning and after prescribed rituals like chanting Vedic mantras dedicated to Vishnu and other festivities, should have meals in company of friends.

In the event of the Tidhi being Ashtami even for a small duration after the sunrise, the devotee should donate a statue (or a picture) of Sri Rama and have a single meal in the day.

After the ceremonies, Harikathas are conducted in some villages wherein some scenes from Ramayana are enacted through dramas. Some devotees perform a marathon chanting of Rama's name. Some believe that writing the name of Rama a 10 lakh times would reward them with Punya and liberation. On the evening of Sri Rama Navami the effigy of Ravana is burnt by enthusiastic youth and children.