In the tapestry of Hindu mythology, Shri Ram stands as a beacon of righteousness, an embodiment of virtue, and the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Revered as Maryada Purushottam, the perfect man, Ram's life, chronicled in Valmiki's Ramayana, serves as a timeless guide to ethical living, emphasizing duty, sacrifice, and love above personal interests. Ram Navami, observed on the ninth day (Navami) of the Hindu month of Chaitra, marks his birth and is a day of profound significance for millions of Hindus. In 2025, this auspicious occasion falls on April 6th, offering a moment to reconnect with enduring values that resonate deeply on a personal level.

On Ram Navami, devotees begin their day with ritualistic bathing and donning clean attire, gathering for prayer. Temples echo with the melodies of bhajans and aartis, while communities come together for spiritual gatherings. Ayodhya, believed to be Shri Ram's birthplace, hosts grand celebrations marked by processions, chanting, and saffron flags, transforming the town into a vibrant display of devotion. Pilgrims flock to the Sarayu River for a purifying dip and seek blessings at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. Fasting is also a common practice, believed to purify the soul and bring spiritual clarity.

Ram Navami serves as a call to embrace dharma, even when faced with adversity. Spiritual teacher Sri Sri Ravi Shankar reminds us that "Ram means the radiance within us; the light of the Self," a light that is rekindled each Ram Navami. Shri Ram's strength lies in his restraint, moral clarity, and commitment to justice, making him an enduring figure of inspiration. Mahatma Gandhi once said, "Rama is the ideal of the Hindus. He is the embodiment of righteousness. In times of difficulty, I remember Ram and derive strength."

The Ramayana's episodes, from Ram's exile to his devotion to Sita and his battles for justice, offer lessons in grace under pressure. Swami Sivananda described Lord Rama as "the very incarnation of dharma," setting an example for all householders to follow. Here are some inspiring quotes about Shri Ram and from the Ramayana:

On Truth and Courage:

• "आहुः सत्यं हि परमं धर्मं धर्मविदो जनाः" - "The wise always believe that truth is the highest form of righteousness."
• "शोको नाशयते धैर्यं शोको नाशयते श्रुतं। शोको नाशयते सर्वं नास्ति शोकोसमो रिपुः" - "Grief destroys courage, learning, and everything; there is no enemy like grief."
• "उत्साहो बलवानार्य नस्त्युत्साहात् परं बलं। सोत्साहस्यहि लोकेषु न किञ्चिदपि दुर्लभं" - "Enthusiasm is powerful, noble one; there is no greater strength than enthusiasm. For the enthusiastic, nothing in the world is difficult."

On the Essence of Ram:

• "Ram is not just a person. He is a phenomenon." – Sadhguru
• "Lord Rama represents calmness in chaos, grace in struggle, and perfection in duty." – Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
• "Rama, the embodiment of truth, of morality, the ideal son, the ideal husband, and above all, the ideal king — this is the reason why he is God." – Swami Vivekananda
• "Repeat the name of Ram. That name alone is enough to take you across all suffering." – Neem Karoli Baba
• "राम नाम मनि दीप धरु जीह देहरी द्वार। तुलसी भीतर बाहेरहुँ जौं चाहसि उजियार॥" - "Place the lamp of Rama's name on the tongue's doorway; within and without, there will be only light.” - Tulsidas

Messages for Family and Friends on Ram Navami 2025:

• "May Lord Rama bless you with strength, courage, and wisdom on this holy day. Happy Ram Navami!"
• "Jai Shri Ram! May His divine grace always be with you and your loved ones."
• "Let us bow our heads in reverence and receive Shri Ram's blessings. Happy Ram Navami!"
• "Just like Lord Ram stood by his family, may we stand by each other through every test of time."
• "On this blessed occasion of Ram Navami, may Lord Ram fill our home with happiness, peace, and positivity. Let's celebrate together and cherish the bond that ties us as a family!"
• "May the blessings of Lord Ram guide our hearts and our lives with love and strength. Wishing my wonderful family a very Happy Ram Navami!"
• "As we come together to celebrate Lord Ram’s birth, may our family’s love and unity grow stronger. Wishing you all a day full of joy, peace, and divine blessings!"
• "Let’s celebrate this Ram Navami with a heart full of gratitude for the love and support we share as a family. May Lord Ram’s blessings be with us always!"
• "Ram Navami is a reminder of the power of good over evil, and may our family continue to prosper in peace and happiness. Wishing all of you a blessed and joyful Ram Navami!"
• "Wishing you a Ram Navami full of joy, laughter, and positivity. May you find peace in every moment and strength in every challenge, just like Lord Ram did!"
• "On this auspicious day, let’s promise to keep spreading kindness and positivity, just like Lord Ram. Have a blessed and happy Ram Navami, my friend!"
• "Happy Ram Navami, my friend! May the day bring you success, good health, and endless happiness. Let’s make this festival unforgettable with loads of smiles and fun!"
• "May the teachings of Lord Ram inspire us to be better humans and stronger friends. Wishing you a peaceful and joyous Ram Navami!"
• "To my dearest friend, may the blessings of Lord Ram fill your life with serenity, happiness, and all things wonderful. Have a fabulous Ram Navami!"
• "On the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami, may your hard work and dedication be blessed with success and prosperity. Have a great day ahead!"
• "May Lord Ram bless you with the strength to overcome every challenge and the wisdom to make the best decisions. Wishing you a peaceful and prosperous Ram Navami!"
• "Happy Ram Navami! May the blessings of Lord Ram shower upon you and your loved ones, bringing peace and joy to your life."
• "Ram Navami is a perfect time to reflect on goodness and virtues. Wishing you a day full of positivity and success in everything you do. Have a great festival!"
• "May Lord Ram’s blessings give you the courage to face every challenge and the wisdom to always do what’s right. Wishing you a bright and joyful Ram Navami!"
• "Happy Ram Navami! May Lord Ram’s divine blessings guide us towards a brighter tomorrow. Let’s spread love and positivity today and always!"
• "Wishing everyone a blessed Ram Navami! May we all live with the strength of Lord Ram and the love that binds us together as a community!"
• "On this auspicious day of Ram Navami, let’s remember to walk the path of righteousness, just like Lord Ram. Wishing everyone peace, love, and prosperity!"
• "As we celebrate the birth of Lord Ram, may his divine blessings bring peace, joy, and prosperity to your life. Happy Ram Navami!"
• "May the light of Lord Ram’s wisdom guide your way. Let’s celebrate this Ram Navami with gratitude, love, and positivity. Happy Ram Navami to all!"

The essence of Ram Navami lies not only in rituals but also in rekindling faith in ourselves, in goodness, and in the eternal interplay between duty and love. As we light a diya or chant Jai Shri Ram, we should reflect on embodying Ram's virtues in our daily lives. As Ramakrishna Paramahamsa beautifully stated, "Rama and Sita are not just a king and queen. They are ideals of the divine in human form, showing us how to live with purity and devotion."

In West Bengal, Ram Navami celebrations commenced with processions and chants of 'Jai Shri Ram', amidst heightened security. Kolkata saw numerous rallies, with significant police deployment to maintain order. BJP leaders urged peaceful celebrations, while the TMC accused the BJP of politicizing the event. Drones and CCTVs were used for surveillance, and Quick Response Teams were stationed at sensitive locations.

Visuals from Ayodhya's Ram Janmabhoomi Temple showcased the birthplace of Lord Ram illuminated for Ram Navami. Devotees gathered in large numbers to take a holy dip in the Sarayu River and visit the Ram Temple, celebrating the Hindu New Year and the birth of Lord Ram.

May this Ram Navami inspire us to live with compassion, humility, and unwavering purpose. Jai Shri Ram.