ISKCON Bangalore celebrated Sri Rama Navami, the auspicious day of Lord Rama’s appearance at ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna Temple and ISKCON Vaikuntha Hill on 17 April 2024 with great devotional fervour and enthusiasm.
On the day of Rama Navami, the Deities of Krishna and Balarama were splendidly adorned as Rama and Lakshmana, wearing royal attire and carrying bows and arrows in Their hands. Devotees felt Their mercy and protection while beholding Their beautiful transcendental forms. An image of Sri Rama Lalla’s Deity in Ayodhya also graced the main altar to bless everyone who visited the temple on this day. Delicious Panaka and Kosambari were distributed to all the temple visitors, as per the tradition.
The celebrations commenced in the evening with Rama Taraka Homa in the main temple hall. This was followed by an engaging video presentation on the glories of Lord Rama and the various holy places connected with His pastimes.
A special Shayana Arati was performed while devotees sang Sri Nama Ramayana. This song summarizes the entire Ramayana and glorifies Lord Rama. The festivities culminated with an ecstatic Pallaki Utsava accompanied by chanting and dancing by devotees.
The widespread worship of Lord Rama and the joyful celebrations of Sri Rama Navami across the country by millions serve as clear evidence of Lord Rama’s profound influence as an exemplary figure. It reflects the collective longing of people for the return of an era akin to Rama-rajya.