Mathura/Varanasi, March 27 Ram Navami was celebrated in a grand manner across Uttar Pradesh on Friday, with special rituals at renowned temples and instances of communal harmony in several locations, officials said.
In Varanasi, a group of Muslim women participated in the 'aarti' of Lord Ram, conveying a message of world peace. The event was jointly organized by Vishal Bharat Sansthan and the Muslim Mahila Federation, with participation from both Hindu and Muslim women.
At the Dwarkadhish temple in Mathura, grand festivities included a "mahabhishek," during which the deity was adorned as Lord Ram. This special tribute was in honor of the poet-saint Tulsidas, who famously wished to see Lord Ram in the heart of Braj.
At Shri Krishna Janmasthan, recitations of the Ramcharitmanas concluded, followed by rituals and 'abhishek' of Lord Ram amid Vedic chants. Similar ceremonies, including yajnas and special prayers, were organized at other temples, including the historic Birla temple in Mathura.
In Vrindavan, the Chandrodaya temple conducted a "mahabhishek" of Sita and Ram, offering "chhappan bhog" to the deities. The temple grounds were beautifully decorated with flowers, and prasad was distributed among devotees.
Varanasi also saw Ramayana recitations and rituals at several temples. At Rajendra Prasad Ghat, a special 'aarti' and cultural programs were organized by a citizens' group.
In Sahpau town of Hathras district, a centuries-old tradition of staging Ramleela during Chaitra Navratra continued. This over 180-year-old practice culminates with the burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhkaran on Dashami.
The effigy burning will take place on March 28 at Hanuman Tila. Local MLA Pradeep Kumar, also known as Guddu Chaudhary, stated that the fair is organized by residents and attracts large crowds every year, according to the organizers.
Officials informed that necessary arrangements were made across districts to ensure smooth celebrations.