Women Celebrate Ram Navami at Purnanand Ghat

Rishikesh : The sacred banks of the Ganges at Purnanand Ghat in Rishikesh came alive with spiritual fervor and cultural pride as women gathered in large numbers to celebrate the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami. Organized by the Rishikesh Ganga Aarti Trust, the celebrations were steeped in devotion, traditional rituals, and a call for women's empowerment and well-being.

Marking the ninth and final day of Chaitra Navratri, the women performed special worship dedicated to Goddess Siddhidatri, the ninth form of Maa Durga. The ceremony began with a collective Ganga Aarti where dozens of women, dressed in traditional attire, offered prayers and lamps to the holy river, invoking blessings for equality, rights, and good health for all women.

The spiritual atmosphere grew even more vibrant with the rhythmic chants of "Jai Jai Shri Ram," which echoed across the ghats, creating a mesmerizing blend of faith and festivity. Devotees were seen singing devotional songs, clapping in unison, and lighting lamps as the sun set over the tranquil river, symbolizing divine light and spiritual awakening.

In addition to prayers and rituals, a community feast or bhandara was organized. Women took the lead in preparing and distributing prasad to the devotees, fostering a spirit of unity and selfless service. The event also featured a traditional Kanya Pujan ceremony, where young girls were honored as representations of divine feminine energy. They were offered gifts, food, and blessings, reinforcing the cultural belief that worshiping girls brings prosperity and divine grace.

Dr. Jyoti Sharma, one of the key participants, highlighted the spiritual and societal significance of the event. “Kanya Pujan during Navratri not only pleases the goddess but also invites peace, prosperity, and abundance. Our scriptures emphasize its importance and today’s gathering is a beautiful reminder of that age-old wisdom,” she said.

Adding to the spiritual vibe, a special havan was performed by the young girls themselves, guided by the trustees of the Ganga Aarti Trust. This was followed by a specially choreographed Ganga Aarti dedicated to Lord Ram, drawing hundreds of onlookers and devotees. The event continued late into the evening with the ghats illuminated by lamps and the air filled with devotional songs and the fragrance of incense.

The Ram Navami celebrations at Purnanand Ghat not only exemplified religious devotion but also reflected a deeper cultural ethos that respects women and encourages their active participation in spiritual and community life. It was a day where tradition met empowerment, and the riverbank became a sacred space of unity, faith, and joy.

The event concluded with blessings shared among all and a collective prayer for peace, prosperity, and the continued upliftment of women in society.