Ram Navami Celebration in Ayodhya: All You Need to Know

Ram Navami in Ayodhya: Lord Ram was the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu. Ramnavmi marks the celebration of the birth of Lord Ram in Ayodhya. Ram Navami in Ayodhya is not just a religious occasion. It marks the transformation of Ayodhya into a rich tapestry of devotion, culture, and celebration.

Since Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Ram, it is the hotspot of Ram Navami celebrations. Devotees from many parts of India and also from all around the world visit Ayodhya for the Ram Navami celebration. Devotees will celebrate Ram Navami 2024 on 17th April, Wednesday.

This blog post covers all the important details such as the Ram Navami 2024 festival’s history, significance, and traditions. Read the complete blog to know more about interesting facts about the celebrations of Ram Navami in Ayodhya.

About Ayodhya Dham

Ayodhya is an ancient city located in the state of Uttar Pradesh. This ancient city is soaked in the rich memories of Lord Ram. The rich history of Ayodhya is mentioned in the spiritual scriptures such as Tulsi Ramayan and Valmiki Ramayan.

Ayodhya was the capital of the Suryavanshi kings. The word ‘Ayodhya’ means the one that can not be defeated in war. Lord Ram was born in the legendary kingdom of Suryavansha. Mighty kings such as Raja Dilip, Raja Bhagirath, Raja Aja, and Raja Dashratha sat on the throne of Ayodhya and gained popular support through their dharma-based actions.

Lord Ram was born to the mighty emperor Raja Dashrath and Queen Kaushalya. Lord Vishnu was pleased with his devotees, Raja Dashrath and Queen Kaushalya. He took birth in their house in his seventh avatar, Lord Ram.

Lord Ram was born in the mid-day time of Chaitra Shukla Navmi. All the conditions at the time of the birth of Lord Ram. The whole atmosphere was pleasant. It was neither cold nor hot. People were in a relaxed state.

The time of Lord Ram in Ayodhya was marked with virtue, values, and righteousness. Ram Navami in Ayodhya is a sort of homecoming for the devotees. They get a chance to celebrate the divine presence that graced Ayodhya.

Read further to know about the exact reason why Lord Vishnu took avatar in the home of Raja Dashrath and Queen Kaushalya. Read further to learn more about the easiest route to visit Ayodhya, the best hotels, and the best locations to visit in Ayodhya.

Birth Story (Katha) of Lord Ram

The tale of the birth of Lord Ram is far from ordinary. It can be traced back to the atrocities committed by the Asuras. The asuras disturbed sadhus and rishis performing the activities of dharma at will. In some cases, they even killed these rishis for no apparent reason.

Even the Devtas were not spared. The asuras were crushing righteous activities of free will. They had the backing of their powerful emperor, Demon Ravan. Demon Ravan performed penance and gained numerous boons from Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva.

Demon Ravan became arrogant after receiving these boons and started considering him as invincible. He had received a boon that he could not be killed by any Devta or Asura. He had not asked for safety from human beings and monkeys as he considered them to be too weak.

Demon Ravan became so relieved with these boons that he forgot that he had not been saved from human beings and monkeys. All the Devtas who were feeling anxious due to the activities of Demon Ravan came together and went to Lord Brahma.

Lord Brahma suggested they visit Lord Vishnu at Ksheer Sagar. All the Devtas decided to meet Lord Vishnu with great expectations. He did not let them down. He reminded them that the end of a sinner lies in the sin itself.

Lord Vishnu promised them that he would take an avatar at the house of Raja Dashrath in the form of (Lord) Ram. The Devtas were very relieved. They left Ksheer Sagar with great hope and started preparing to take avatars on Earth in the form of human beings and monkeys to help Lord Ram in his dharma-based tasks.

Ram Navami Celebration

A flurry of activities starts weeks leading into Ram Navami celebrations in Ayodhya. The complete city undergoes a dazzling transformation. All major temples in the city and the streets are decorated with orange (Bhagwa) coloured flags.

People decorate their premises with intricately designed rangolis. Spiritual mantras, hymns, and bhajans resonate in every corner of Ayodhya on the occasion of Ram Navami. Temples in Ayodhya especially the newly built Ram temple in Shri Ram Janmbhoomi are the focal centers for celebrating Ram Navami in Ayodhya.

The whole temple complex especially the sanctum sanctorum is decorated with fresh flowers to mark this important day. Special arrangements are made to accommodate the large influx of devotees on the occasion of Shri Ram Navami.

Celebrating Ram Navami in Ayodhya encompasses many rituals and cultural practices. Some of the most important events of the day are listed.

Shri Ram Janm Muhurat Puja

Devotees eagerly wait for the auspicious occasion of Shri Ram Janm muhurat puja. Special prayers and rituals such as abhishekam are performed. The complete atmosphere inside the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi temple reverberates with the chants of ‘Jai Siya Ram ’.

Shobhayatra

A grand Shobha yatra makes its way through the heart of Ayodhya on the occasion of Ram Navami. Grand chariots carrying the idols of Lord Ram, Devi Sita, Lakshman, and Lord Hanuman make their way through the important locations of Ayodhya.

Saints, pandits, and devotees participate in the procession with devotion and joy. Shobhayatra is one of the most mesmerising events in the Ram Navami celebrations held in Ayodhya.

Community Kitchen

Temples and ashrams of Ayodhya come alive with community kitchens offering prasad to the devotees. Devotees come in thousands of numbers to get prasad on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami. The spirit of community and celebration take centre stage.

Cultural Events

Large parts of Ayodhya hold cultural programs on the theme of the Ramayana. Religion-based dance performances, musical nights, and Kavi Sammelans are also organized. These cultural events highlight the events of the life of Lord Ram. Bhajan sandhya and Ram naam sankirtans are also held.

Fireworks

Vibrant fireworks illuminate the nighttime skyline of Ayodhya on the occasion of Ram Navmi. Chants of ‘Jai Siya Ram’ fill the air. This creates an atmosphere of spiritual ecstasy and joy.

Saryu Aarti

Every evening, the people of Ayodhya hold Saryu Aarti. It is a mesmerizing spectacle of devotion. Devotees gather on the Saryu ghat (banks of the river ) to participate in Saryu Aarti. People offer hundreds and hundreds of Diyas (flickering earthen lamps) to the river.

Every evening, the banks of the Saryu River create breathtaking scenes. The reflection of flickering Diyas in the river is hard to miss. It symbolizes the removal of darkness and the victory of good over evil. Devotees create cherishing memories.

Key Attractions in Ayodhya

Ayodhya is the go-to destination for Hindu devotees. They visit the hometown of Lord Ram to immerse themselves in the memories of Lord Ram. One of the most important sites to visit in Ayodhya is the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi temple. Other attractions include Hanuman Garhi and Kanak Bhawan. Read further to know about all the important sites in Ayodhya.

Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Temple

Shri Ram Janmbhoomi temple is the focus centre for the devotees visiting Ayodhya. A grand temple dedicated to Lord Ram is at the centre of celebrations for Ram Navami in Ayodhya.

Hanuman Garhi

Hanuman Garhi, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, one of the most ardent devotees of Lord Ram, is a magnificent temple. Located atop a hillock, devotees visit Hanuman Garhi to seek the blessings of Lord Hanuman. The vibrant orange facade of the temple and flags fluttering in the air create a captivating site for the devotees.

Kanak Bhavan

Many believe that Kanak Bhavan is the celestial abode of Lord Ram’s childhood. Rich in architecture, the serene atmosphere of Kanak Bhavan takes visitors back to the bygone era of the Ramayan.

Nageshwarnath Mahadev Temple

The Nageshwarnath Mahadev temple is one of the oldest Shiva temples in Ayodhya. This temple holds immense significance for the devotees visiting Ayodhya. Devotees believe that Lord Ram worshipped Lord Shiva in this temple.

Sita Rasoi

Sita Rasoi is the site of the kitchen of Devi Sita. Devotees visit this site to witness the unique architectural style and also get the nourishing ‘Prasadam’ offered here.

Ram Katha Park

Ram Katha Park is a site rich with gardens and water fountains. Sculptures depicting scenes from the Ramayan fascinate the devotees. Devotees visit this site to reflect and relax.

Points to Remember

Devotees visiting Ayodhya Dham to celebrate Ram Navami in Ayodhya should consider the following points before visiting Ayodhya at this time.

Travel

Thousands of devotees visit Ayodhya to celebrate Ram Navmi. At this time, crowds overwhelm trains and buses. Devotees should consider booking tickets in advance or make use of alternative modes of transportation such as taxis.

Weather

People usually celebrate Ram Navami in the month of April. Ayodhya in April month can be quite warm. It is better that devotees carry lightweight luggage, breathable clothing, and comfortable shoes. They should also carry sunscreen, caps, and sunglasses to shield themselves from the Sun.

Accommodation

There is a massive influx of devotees for Ram Navami in Ayodhya. Devotees should book accommodation in advance. They can consider options such as hotels and guesthouses. Some devotees also prefer staying in ashrams and ‘Dharamshalas’ for spiritual benefits.

Devotees immerse themselves in the festive spirit of Ram Navami in Ayodhya. They participate in religious activities such as arti, pujas, sankirtans, and rituals to immerse themselves in the memories of Lord Ram. Read further to know interesting facts about Lord Ram.

Interesting Facts

King Bhagirath performed rigorous penance for the liberation of his sons. He convinced Devi Ganga to come to Earth and liberate his sons. Devotees thank King Bhagirath for his penance to this day.

Lord Vishnu lies in a resting pose on Shesh Nag. Shesh Nag took the avatar of Lakshman, brother of Lord Ram to serve him in his avatar.

An ancestor of Lord Ram Raja Bhagirath brought the Ganga River to Earth for the liberation of his sons and the betterment of the people. He appeased Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva for this task.

Lord Ram was born in Ayodhya but the kingdom of Suryavanshi kings extended far and wide from Ayodhya. It covered large sections of modern-day India.

Roads, railways, and air routes connect Ayodhya with important cities like Delhi. Ayodhya inaugurated Maharishi Valmiki International Airport to serve national and international devotees coming to the city.

Final Glimpse

Ram Navami in Ayodhya is more than a celebration. Ram Navami in Ayodhya is a transformative journey for the devotees. They get a chance to reconnect with the ideals of Lord Ram and experience the power of tradition and culture.

Many parts of India celebrate Ram Navami with great joy and enthusiasm, but the celebrations in Ayodhya are unparalleled. Devotees from all parts of the country visit to experience something very special.

People who are not able to visit Ayodhya for Ram Navami need not worry. They can visit the website or application of 99Pandit to Book a Pandit for pujas such as Ram Navami Puja. It is easy to book Pandit Ji on 99Pandit. Devotees enjoy booking pandit for pujas, jaaps, and Homams on 99Pandit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.When is Ram Navami 2024?

A.Devotees will celebrate Ram Navami 2024 on 17th April 2024.

Q.What is the significance of Ram Navami in Ayodhya?

A.Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Ram. Devotees celebrate Ram Navami in Ayodhya to immerse themselves in the memories of Lord Ram.

Q.How to reach Ayodhya?

A.Devotees can easily reach Ayodhya through road, rail, and air connectivity.

Q.Which places can the devotees visit in Ayodhya?

A.Devotees can visit places such as Shri Ram Janmbhoomi temple, Hanuman Garhi, and Sita Rasoi in Ayodhya.