Rama Navami kicks off musical, cultural fiesta

Devotees dressed up as Ram and Hanuman treated weary commuters to delicious Panaka (jaggery juice) on the roads as part of Rama Navami celebrations in the city on Saturday. 

Dressed in striking red and green, they engaged with residents near various Hanuman and Ram temples in different parts of the city.  Large crowds gathered at the Anjaneya temple near Anand Rao Circle to witness the devotees in divine costumes.

Many religious and cultural organisations opened roadside stalls and offered Panaka and buttermilk to the public. Temples in various parts of the city also offered Kosambri (sprout salad), buttermilk and Panaka to devotees. 

Special puja and religious programmes marking the festival were conducted in Ram and Anjaneya temples where the idols of Ram, Sita and Lakshmana were decorated. The festival kick-starts a month-long musical and cultural fiesta when singers and instrumentalists give daily concerts.