Ramnavami, the birthday of Lord Rama, the celebrated hero of the famous epic, 'Ramayana', is enthusiastically celebrated all over India.
Lord Vishnu is worshipped in his human incarnation as Rama, the divine ruler of Ayodhya.
Celebrations begin with a prayer to the Sun early in the morning. At midday, when Lord Rama is supposed to have been born, a special prayer is performed.
Temples of Rama are decorated, religious discourses (satsangs) are held and Ram Katha (chronicles of the life of Lord Ram) is read and the Ramayana is recited for ten days.
Devotees fast, offer fruits and floral tributes to the Gods, sing devotional songs (kirtans) in praise of Rama and rock images of him in a cradle to celebrate his birth.
Rathyatras or chariot processions of Rama, his wife Seeta, brother Lakshmana and devotee Hanuman are held from many temples.
The chariot is accompanied by several devotees dressed up in ancient costumes as Rama's soldiers.
The procession is a gusty affair with the participants shouting praises echoing the happy days of Rama's reign.
People gather in thousands on the banks of the sacred river Sarayu in the temple town of Ayodhya for a dip.
Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, considered to be the birthplace of Lord Rama is the focus of great celebrations.
Devotees throng the temples of Ayodhya and Pondicherry, two places closely connected with the events of the Ramayana to participate in the Ramnavami festivities.
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