Celebrating Rama Navami: A Revered Festival

Rama Navami is a vibrant spring festival that celebrates the birth of the Prince of Ayodhya from the epic Ramayana. Lord Rama is regarded as the seventh avatar of the Hindu deity Lord Vishnu, and this festival is marked across India with immense fervor. Among the fascinating cultural aspects of this celebration are the 108 temples and towns known as Divya Desams or “mystical abodes,” which are dedicated to Vishnu and his avatars. Below, we explore some of the most renowned temples dedicated to the worship of Lord Rama across India.

Ayodhya on the banks of River Sarayu is celebrated as the birthplace of Rama © 108 Divya Desams/Niyogi Books

The rich tapestry of mythology, fables, and legends surrounds the temples and pilgrim towns across India. There are 108 Divya Desams, or abodes of Vishnu. According to Vaishnavite beliefs, 105 of these temples are located throughout India, one in the neighboring nation of Nepal, while two exist in the celestial realm.

A sculpted tableau of Rama and Sita flanked at Srinivasa Perumal Temple at Thiruvellakulam in Tamil Nadu. © 108 Divya Desams/Niyogi Books

In South India, 84 Divya Desams are distributed across Tamil Nadu, with the island temple at Sri Rangam being particularly special. There are additionally two temples in Andhra Pradesh and eleven in Kerala. In contrast, eight Divya Desams are located in North India and one in Nepal. Many of these temples boast over 2000 years of rich history, showcasing stunning architecture, intriguing legends, and unique temple cuisine.

Colourful murals of the Vishnu purana cover the walls at Thirukkozhi Temple in Tamil Nadu © 108 Divya Desams/Niyogi Books

Traditional Cuisine during Rama Navami

In South India, traditional food offerings during Rama Navami include a refreshing vegetable salad called kosumalli, complemented by two popular drinks: a sweet jaggery water flavored with elaichi known as panagam, and neer more, or watery buttermilk. Conversely, in North India, households typically prepare meals consisting of kala channa, poori, and delicious sweets like sooji halwa and kheer, while fasting foods include sabudana or tapioca.

According to legend, the Thiruppullani Temple in Ramanathapuram is where King Dasharata received a sweet kheer, which he shared with his queens, blessing him with sons. © 108 Divya Desams/Niyogi Books

The epic Ramayana and its various regional interpretations across India continue to resonate deeply with its followers. The numerous temples and towns remain vibrant pilgrimage sites to this day, showcasing the enduring significance of Lord Rama in the hearts of millions.