Ipsita Priyadarsini 
Bhubaneswar: Celebrated on the occasion of Lord Rama’s birthday, Ram Navami is a Hindu spring festival, observed on the ninth and last day of Chaitra Navratri. Ram Navami marks the arrival of Lord Vishnu’s seventh avatar, Rama. The day generally falls in the Gregorian months of March or April, every year. Though the festival is specifically important to the Vaishnavite tradition of Hinduism, Rama is worshipped all across the world by a lot of devotees on this day.
Thousands of devotees made a beeline to several temples all over the state to have darshan and offer prayers to Lord Ram. Rituals that began with Mangala Alati in the wee hours today are being followed by Sringar Alati, Ramcharitmanas, Nabanna Parayana Purnahuti and Homa Yagyna.
Capital city Bhubaneswar wore a festive look with devotees thronging the famous Ram Mandir in large numbers to offer prayers. Elaborate security arrangements have been made by the Twin City Commissionerate Police in and around the temple premises to ensure a hassle-free darshan for the devotees. Special rituals are being performed at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri on Ram Navami. Preparations are in full swing in the pilgrim town for Sahi Jata event.
Ram Navami marks the birth anniversary of Lord Ram. The festival falls in the Hindu month of Chaitra, on the ninth day of the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha). It holds immense significance for devotees who commemorate Lord Ram’s life and teachings.
Devotees observe fasts and engage in prayers and bhajans dedicated to Lord Ram. Many also participate in processions, carrying idols or portraits of Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman.
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:
The Birth and Early Life Lord 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.
Sita Swayamvara and Abduction Rama 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.
The Journey to Lanka Rama, 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.
The Loyalty of Hanuman Hanuman played a pivotal role. He infiltrated Lanka, met Sita, and ultimately burned down the city, showcasing unwavering devotion and courage.
Ordeal of Fire After 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.
