~ Hindu Festivals ~

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Types of Rakhi

Rakhi or Rakhsha Bandhan is a festival which is celebrated by all classes of people in India. It is basically a Hindu festival, which is celebrated on the full moon of the month of Shraavana. It is basically to commemorate the relationship of brother and sister. On this occasion, a sister ties Rakhi (holy thread) on the hand of his brother and his brother in return promises to protect her from all the evils of the world. In yesteryears, the Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan was only a holy thread (made of silk); however with time various kinds of Rakhi have come in fashion. People these days also go for designer Rakhis. If you are interested in exploring various varieties of Rakhis, read the following paragraphs.

Different Types Of Rakhi

Cartoon Rakhi
In such types of Rakhis, the cartoon characters are prominent designs over the Rakhi thread. These characters are generally popular cartons like Micky mouse, Donald duck, Tweety, Mogli, Casper, Shaktiman or any other character popular among the children. These kinds of Rakhis are meant for kids.

Sandalwood Rakhi
These Rakhis are made by using sandalwood pieces in various decorative forms. There may be small animals, flowers or some idols made of sandalwood. Sometimes sandalwood beads are also used to give an ethnic look to the Rakhis. The sweet smell of sandalwood also adds extra freshness to the Rakhi festival.

Musical Rakhi
Musical Rakhis are those which play special kind of music when touched. These consist of sensors which get active and play melodious or surprising music. These Rakhis are also a craze amongst children.

Floral Rakhi
These are the Rakhis which have a touch of ancientness. These Rakhis give a complete traditional look. Use of different colorful small and big flowers makes such Rakhis extremely beautiful. These Rakhis are naturally filled with sweet fragrance.

Zari Rakhi
These Rakhis are made of Zari threads. Apart using the zari as thread, it also uses it in making the central motif of the Rakhi. The zari is generally silver or golden therefore it appears shiny and gives a very royal look.

Resham Rakhi
Resham Rakhis or Reshami Rakhis are those Rakhis which are made by Resham (silk) threads. Such Rakhis are soft in touch and look bright. All kinds of Resham Rakhis, be it a simple Dori or a heavily decorated one, are well-liked by each age-group.

Mouli
A special kind of thread is used in Hindu Dharma rituals, for tying onto the wrists of the participants of any Hindu rites as an auspicious symbol. This special thread is also known as 'Kalava'. This 'Mouli' is also used as Rakhi because of its auspiciousness.

Gold-Siver coated Rakhi
When Rakhis are prepared by using coatings of the precious metals like silver and gold then they automatically give a royal look. At times, these metals are also used in the different shapes like flowers, Indian Gods and Goddesses and even beads while preparing the Rakhis. These Rakhis also have keepsake value.

Shree-Om Rakhi
Rakhis containing the symbols of Hindu Dharma, like the 'Shree' sign, the 'Om' sign and the 'Swastika' signs are also in demand. Such Rakhis leave a religious impression. So, these Rakhis are especially popular among the old people.

Ram Rakhi
Sometimes Rakhis are made of simple silk threads. They are very simple Doris only with no decorations at all. Just a flower made of same thread in the middle of the Dori. .

Beads Rakhi
The Rakhis that have beads embedded into their threads or embedded on top of the Rakhi base in the middle of the Rakhi thread are put into this category. Such Rakhis give a unique tribal appearance.

Currency Note Rakhi
Such Rakhis have different denominations of currency notes like Rupees or Dollars attached to them. These currency notes can be made of plastic or even real. These Rakhis are simply used for fun.

Stones Rakhi
The Rakhis that are made by using the pieces of precious and semi-precious stones like opal, emerald, ruby or topaz are called stone Rakhis. A Rakhi decorated with various kinds of glittering stone pieces looks just marvelous.

Special Rakhis

Mysore: Sandalwood Rakhis.

Mumbai: Cartoon Rakhis.

Gujarat: Silver Rakhis.

Calcutta: Handmade Rakhis.

Punjab: Resham Rakhis.

South India: Zari Rakhis.

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Rakhi Around The World

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated in a grand manner in India. It is celebrated with extreme zeal and enthusiasm throughout the country. This festival is given great importance in the country as it commemorates the unique relation shared by brothers and sisters. It is celebrated in the Hindu month of Shravan which corresponds to the July- August month of the Gregorian calendar. Apart from India, this festival is also celebrated in various parts of the world where Hindu population resides. Interestingly, many non- Hindu families opt for celebrating this festival because with time, this occasion has become a Universal celebration of the unbreakable thread of love between brothers and sisters. Explore more about worldwide Raksha Bandhan celebrations, through the lines given below.

Rakhi Celebrations Around The World

Rakhi In Europe
Rakhi is also celebrated with great zeal in various countries of Europe. It is celebrated by the South East Asian population residing here. People from different parts of the city gather at a common place at times to give festive touch to this occasion. As there are several people who live in these foreign states alone, they have developed brotherhood amongst themselves. Girls tie Rakhis to boys who are not their real brothers but their foster brothers.

Rakhi In Nepal
Nepal is the only Hindu Country in the world. There are also many Indians residing in the country. So, in Nepal you will feel homelike on the Indian festivals like Rakhi. Very similar to India, in Nepal also people celebrate this occasion as a commemoration of brother-sister relationship. The festival begins with the ceremony of tying Raksha Sutra on brother's hand and comes to an end with feasting and family get-togethers.

Rakhi In Australia
There is also commendable Asian population in Australia. Most of them are Indian students and professionals. So, on the occasion of Rakhi, these people generally celebrate it by community gathering and feasting. In countries like Australia, where the native population is completely alien to any such festival getting Raksha sutra in market is a little difficult, so people preferably tie bands or bracelets around bother's hand. Very much like European Asian community, people here also have the concept of foster brothers and sisters as most of the people live away from their family.

Rakhi In Gulf Countries
The concept of Rakhi in Gulf countries is very new. Since, the time Indians have started moving in these countries for working in Oil companies and factories, they have also introduced the concept of Indian festivals like Rakhi in the Gulf culture. Though the native people do not celebrate this festival, the Indians here nake this occasion look like festival in their community. Many communities of Indian origin who do not have the Rakhi culture back home enthusiastically participate in this festival to increase warmth and love in their relations with the fellow Indians living abroad.

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Rakhi Date

Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan is a popular Indian festival. It is celebrated in order to commemorate the sacred relationship of a brother and sister. On this occasion, a sister tied an auspicious thread called Raksha Sutra, Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi on her brother's hands. This sacred thread is the symbol of the unbreakable tie of love between the siblings. A sister ties Rakhi on her brother's hand to seek his protection and care throughout her life. There is also a trend of presenting a gift or money by brothers in return as a token of love.

When Is Rakhi
The festival of Rakhi is celebrated in almost all the Hindu families around the world. Nowadays even some non-Hindu families now celebrate this festival as Rakhi has now become a universal celebration beyond religion to commemorate the pious threads of love between brother and sister. According to the Hindu calendar, Raksha Bandhan falls on the purnima or full moon day in the holy month of Shravana, the fifth month of a Hindu calendar. This day corresponds to the July-August month according to the Gregorian calendar.

The preparation for Rakhi celebrations begin days before the actual celebrations. People wear new dresses and prepare lots of scrumptious items on this day. Those brothers who stay away from their sisters visit their sister's place to celebrate this occasion. In some families, this festival also becomes a reason for mini get-together. This day stands as the epitome of the eternal bonding of love and affection among siblings.

The festival of Rakhi is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm. It is awaited by every body in the family. It becomes extra special when sisters get married and go away to some other place, as this becomes the occasion for the reunion of brother and sister. Though several changes have come in the recent years in terms of celebrations, the piousness of the festival remains the same. It is like the thread of Rakhi- beautiful, auspicious and unbreakable.

Raksha Bandhan Date
2012 - 02 August.

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Ram Aarti

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.

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Ram Chalisa

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.

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Ram Navami Bhajans

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

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Ram Navami Celebrations

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.

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Ram Navami Date

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 2012: 1st April.

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Ram Navami Fast

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.

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Ram Navami History

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.

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Ram Navami Legends

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.

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Ram Navami Mantra

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.

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Ram Navami Pooja

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.

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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.

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Significance Of Ram Navami

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.