Today marks the auspicious festival of Ram Navami, the celebration of the birth of Lord Ram, also known as Maryada Purushottam Shree Ram. The festival falls on Chaitra Shukla Navami, signifying the victory of light and dignity over darkness.
Ram Navami commemorates the descent of Lord Vishnu as the Ram avatar, born to King Dasharatha and Queen Kausalya in Ayodhya. Devotees celebrate by reciting the Ramayana, visiting temples dedicated to Lord Ram, and offering prayers in their homes.
Temples and shrines throughout the country are filled with devotees paying homage to Lord Ram. In Kathmandu Valley, large crowds have gathered at Shree Ram Temples, including Battisputali. The Ramjanaki temple in Janakpurdham is also bustling with devotees, many arriving from India to offer prayers and participate in the fair held on the temple’s premises.
Traditionally, devotees observe Ram Nawami by staying awake at night, reciting hymns dedicated to Shree Ram. Lord Ram’s reign in Ayodhya is considered a golden age, remembered for its just governance. Worshipped as an ideal figure, Lord Ram is revered for his devotion to family, respect for elders, and love for his people.
The festival of Ram Navami reminds us of the eternal struggle between good and evil, and the belief that righteousness will ultimately prevail. Lord Ram’s kingdom, Ram Rajya, symbolizes a society built upon justice and compassion.
