RAMNAM (RAMNAVMI)

Ram Navmi or the birthday of Lord Rama is observed on the ninth day of the waxing moon of the month Chaitra (March-April). Ramnavami is celebrated to rejoice the birth anniversary of Lord Rama. Lord Rama, is the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Ram Navami is a nine day festival which starts from the beginning of the Hindu New Year.

Lord Rama was born to King Dasharath and his wife Kaushalya as an answer to the prayers of the people who were traumatized by Ravana, the King of Lanka. Lord Brahma whom they asked for help, could not do much because Ravana could not be killed by a God. Hence, Lord Brahma asked Vishnu to help. Lord Vishnu took the avtar of Rama and successfully killed Ravana.

On Ram Navami, the temples are decorated and the images of Lord Rama are adorned with flowers. The day starts with chanting the Vedic mantras dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Lord Rama’s devotees fast for nine days. Some observe a strict fast only on this day. The Ramayana is read or recited in the temples.

Fairs are organized in various places. Lord Rama's birthday is celebrated with great happiness and is believed to bring peace of mind and happiness to the people. The biggest celebration takes place at the Partgal Math in Canacona in south Goa where thousands of devotees gather to take part in the festivities.

See Also Hindu Festivals Celebrated in Goa:

| Chovoth | Diwali | Gokulashtami | Holi | Lairai Jatra | Nagpanchami |
| Gudi Padwa | Raksha Bandhan | Ram Navmi | Vasco Saptah | Chikhalkala |