Prasoon Tiwari
Maryada Purushottam Lord Ram was born on ninth day of Shukla paksha of Chaitra month. He took birth in Purnvarsu Nashatra and Kark Langna from the womb of Kaushalya in the Suryavansh. That's why this date is known as Ramnavami. The festival is considered holy in Indian society. Importance of this day can be understood from the fact that the great poet Tulsidas started writing 'Ramcharitmanas' from this day.
Ram Navami 2016 will be celebrated on 15th of April (Friday)
All Hindu families in India celebrate the birth of Lord Ram with joy and enthusiasm. People take holy dip into sacred Salila Sarayu on this day. Ramnavami is a very important day for the devotees of Lord Ram.
There is a big fair in Ayodhaya on this day. People come from far locations to get a glimpse of Sriram’s idol and to take holy dip.
One should observe fast and worship Lord Ram and the Ramayan. One should make bathe to idol of Lord Ram with pure and sacred water and decorate it with new clothes. The idol should be incensed with flowers, aarti and yellow sandalwood. Lord Ram should be offered with Panchmrit made up of curd, milk, ghee, honey and sugar followed by religious prayers and prasad should be distributed among people.
Chaitra Masiya Navratra is also known as Vasantiya Navratra. People who observe fast with faith on this day got blessed with fotunte. The time of this day should be spent with memorizing lord Ram, singing prayers, charity and in havan.
Ramnavami is celebrated on the joining of Punvarsu nakshatra. When punvarsu nakshatra are not uniting Ramnavami could be celebrated if navami is available in the afternoon. Some people observe fast till afternoon on this day. But this procedure is not according to Hindu scriptures. The fast should be observed for all eight pahars.
We should try to follow all models of lord Ram's personality. One can avail all blessings of lord Ram by following all these rituals.