By Pradip Jain
Ram Navami is a significant Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It typically falls on the ninth day of Chaitra month, according to the Hindu calendar, which is in March or April in the Gregorian calendar. This year, the festival fell on April 6.
The 57-year-old Nepal Ramnavami Stamp was issued on April 18, 1967. The stamp carries the year 2024 in the Vikram Samvat Hindu calendar used in Nepal and certain regions of India. The year 2024 aligns with the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha.
Lord Rama is revered as a symbol of virtue and righteousness, and revered as an ideal king, son, and husband. The day is marked with special prayers, bhajans (devotional songs), recitations of the Ramayana, and vibrant processions in many parts of India. Devotees often observe fasting and visit temples dedicated to Lord Rama.
Nepal 1967 Ramnavami Stamp First Day Cover.
Lao People's Democratic Republic) 2024 stamp and cover on Ram Lalla of Ayodhya. Lao is the first country in the world to issue a stamp depicting the revered deity.
Throughout India's ancient scriptures, it's emphasized that Lord Vishnu descends in various incarnations to draw devotees and vanquish the wicked. His activities, known as Lila (pastimes), are revered, celebrated, and contemplated upon by his beloved devotees. Lord Vishnu's Rama incarnation, or avatar, is characterized by such divine pastimes to spread his teachings across the country.
Indonesia 1971 Ramayana Festival stamp.
Ramnavami special cover Prayagraj, 2024.
Ram Navami marks the appearance of Lord Rama in both his human and divine forms, celebrated with profound reverence and festivities across India, particularly in the sacred city of Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, which is the birthplace of Lord Ram.
Ram Navami celebrations at Chitrakoot's Ram Ghat in Uttar Pradesh this year.
Preceding Ram Navami, Hindus observe a nine-day fast during Chaitra Navaratri, abstaining from alcohol, smoking, and consuming sattvic vegetarian food while engaging in prayer and meditation for detoxification of the body. On the ninth and final day, Ayodhya and other cities across India adorn themselves like a radiant bride, immersed in prayer and festivity. Ram Navami honors every aspect of Lord Rama's life.
(The author's involvement in Indian and global philately stretches over many years. He won several Gold Medals in International philately and served three terms as the Governing Council member of the Philatelic Congress of India. Contact: [email protected])
(All Photos courtesy: UP Travel & Tourism/Facebook; X@uptourismgov)
