Ayodhya: Devotees visited temples and took holy dip on Friday on the occasion of 'Ram Navami'. In Ayodhya, thousands of devotees started visiting temples since early hours to say their prayers. Devotees also thronged the banks of river Saryu to take a dip on the auspicious occasion. "We are feeling very good after coming here," said Rajendra Das, a devotee. Meanwhile, security has also been tightened to ensure peace. Security personnel were deployed at all temples and checkposts erected at different entry points in the town. The festival falls on the ninth day of the moonlit fortnight in the months of March-April. Most people considered it auspicious to observe a strict fast on the day. Ram Navami marks the birth of Lord Ram, who according to legend rid the world of demon Ravana - the symbol of evil. Ram Navami is also one of the most important Hindu festival and Rama is one of the most popular figures.

New Delhi: Ram Navami, the birthday of Lord Ram, was celebrated with religious zeal and gaiety across the country. President Pratibha Singh Patil, Vice President Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh have greeted the nationals on the occasion. In her message, President Patil said: "May the celebrations of this joyous festival bring all our people together and inspire us to follow the highest moral and ethical values of Lord Ram and rededicate ourselves to build a glorious nation." Vice President Ansari said the life and teachings of Lord Rama is a beacon of light to mankind with his message that the good and the righteous shall always emerge victorious. Prime Minister Dr. Singh said that Lord Ram is the embodiment of righteousness and high moral values. His philosophy and teachings inspire all of us to rededicate ourselves to cause of the underprivileged with service and sacrifice. "May the festival usher in happiness, prosperity and well being of all," Dr. Singh said. Ram Navami marks the birth of Lord Ram, who according to legend, rid the world of the demon Ravan - the symbol of evil and is one of the most important Hindu festival. To celebrate Ramnanmi, a large number of devotees have reached Lord Ram's birthplace 'Ayodhya' situated in UP. Elaborate security arrangements have been made in the city.

Srinagar: Kashmiri Hindus celebrated Ram Navami with reverence in Srinagar, as this festival brought various devotees together at a Hindu temple here. "We want the older interaction with people, peace, religious understanding and a harmonious world. We have performed this 'Havan' (holy fire ritual) for the same," said Rajender Tikoo, a Hindu devotee. A traditional 'Havan' was performed to pray for peace and prosperity in the region. "Because of our saints and Gods, we are doing well. With their blessings we wish the lost brotherhood returns to the state. If the peaceful atmosphere of the past returns here, the flowers will blossom as before and forever," said Herath Lal, another Hindu devotee. In early '90s, thousands of Kashmiri Hindus had to flee from their homes in the valley after being targetted by Kashmiri and foreign militants. Today, Kashmiri Hindus now constitute a miniscule population in the State.
- Apr 3, 2009