Hindus all over the world will be celebrating Rama Navami, the festival commemorates the birth of the seventh avatar of Vishnu; Rama, to King Dasharatha and Queen Kausalya. Rama is seen as the ideal human; the perfect sibling, spouse and parent.{copytag:[611]:copytag}
Rama Navami
In some areas the festivities last nine days, but noon on Rama Navami is the focus for the celebrations as this is the time Rama was born. So at midday, many families attend sumptuous decorated temples and shrines. The day is observed by fasting followed by a feast. No festival would be complete without something tasty to eat or drink, and Rama Navami is no exception and a special drink called Panakam, which is made with jaggery and pepper, is enjoyed by many people at this time. Some families place a small figure of Rama in a cradle as a focus for their devotions.
Wedding anniversary of Rama and Sita
In South India, today also sees celebrations for the wedding anniversary of Rama and Sita. South Indians often perform Kalyanotsavam (marriages) with small deities of Rama and Sita in their homes. The larger Kalyanam ceremony performed in the Bhadrachalam Temple, in Telangana, is particularly famous.
