Ramaayan Week, observed nine days before Ram Naumi, marks the Appearance Day of Lord Ram.

During this sacred period, devotees read the Ramayana, sing devotional songs and offer prayers honouring Lord Ram, the seventh avatar of Vishnu, who is revered for destroying evil and exemplifying virtue and chivalry. The story symbolises the triumph of good over evil, and many devotees fast during this time to seek blessings and inner peace.

The Dundee Hindu Temple will observe Ramaayan Week from March 19 to 26, with daily prayers from 18:00 to 19:30, including Ramayana readings, bhajans and kirtans.

Special prayers during the week include:

• Saturday, March 21: Ram Bhajan prayer at 18:00.

• Sunday, March 22: Hanuman Jundha prayer at 09:00, followed by Ram Katha at 10:00. Devotees wishing to offer or sponsor parsadh may contact Guru Umeshvaran.

The week will conclude with Ram Naumi celebrations on Thursday, March 26, starting at 09:00 with Ganesh pooja and ending with aarthi at 12:00.

Upcoming temple celebrations

Hanuman Jayanti will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 1, beginning at 18:00. The Hanuman Chalisa will be recited 11 times, followed by bhajans, kirtans, hawan and aarthi.

The Tamil New Year falls on April 14, while Chitrai Paravum Kavady will be observed on Friday, May 1, from 17:00.

Although smaller than the Thaipoosam Kavady, the day carries the same spiritual significance for devotees seeking blessings, healing and renewal.

The Dundee Hindu Temple invites all devotees and well-wishers to attend the prayers and celebrations.

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