Rama Navami 2021

Lord Rama was born on Navami Tithi during Shukla Paksha of Chaitra month. Each year this day is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Rama. Lord Rama was born during Madhyana period which is middle of Hindu day. Madhyana which prevails for six Ghatis (approximately 2 hours and 24 minutes) is the most auspicious time to perform Rama Navami Puja rituals. The mid-point of Madhyana marks the moment when Shri Rama was born and temples symbolize this moment as the birth moment of Lord Rama. The chanting of Shri Rama and celebration reaches its peak during this time.

Due to the widespread use of the western clock and Gregorian calendar people assume 12 p.m. as Madhyana moment. This could have been correct if sunrise and sunset occur exactly at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. respectively but at most places sunrise and sunset timings are different from six O’clock. Hence, the exact time to celebrate the birthday of Lord Rama falls between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. for most Indian cities.

Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Rama and Rama Navami celebrations in Ayodhya are remarkable. Devotees come to Ayodhya from far-flung places. After taking a holy dip into river Saryu Devotees visit Rama temple to participate in birthday celebrations.

Eight Prahar fasting is suggested during Rama Navami. Which means devotees should observe the fast from sunrise to sunrise. Rama Navami Vrat can be observed in three different ways, casual (नैमित्तिक) -which can be observed without any cause, continual (नित्य) – which can be observed throughout life without any desire and desirable (काम्य) – which can be observed to fulfill any desire.