Sri Rama Navami celebrated with religious fervour in Vijayawada

A spiritually vibrant atmosphere enveloped the city on the occasion of Sri Rama Navami on Friday (March 27, 2026). Major temple centres, including Ramalayam Satyanarayanapuram, Kodanda Rama Temple Patamata and Sri Abhaya Anjaneya Swamy Temple Ghat Road, witnessed a steady influx of devotees. Streets and neighbourhoods transformed into festive spaces, with pandals hosting the traditional ‘Sita Rama Kalyanam’.

At precisely noon, during the auspicious Abhijit muhurtham, priests performed the celestial wedding rituals amid Vedic chants and traditional music. The deities, adorned in silk garments and vibrant floral decorations, were the centre of devotion as rituals like ‘Jeelakarra Bellam’ and the tying of the ‘mangalasutram’ were conducted, symbolising the divine union of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita.

Across the city, devotional fervour resonated through chants of “Jai Sri Rama,” “Kodanda Rama,” and “Janaki Rama.” Youth actively participated in preparations, distributing traditional ‘prasadam’ such as ‘vadapappu’ and ‘panakam’, a refreshing jaggery-based drink.

Prominent localities like Besant Road, Benz Circle, and One Town hosted elaborate pandals, although some areas saw relatively subdued arrangements compared to previous years.

Volunteers distribute ‘prasadam’ to devotees on the occasion of Sri Rama Navami in Vijayawada on Friday.
| Photo Credit:
K.V.S. Giri

Beyond the city, celebrations extended across Krishna and NTR districts, with thousands thronging temples and participating in special rituals. Residential colonies and welfare associations also organised ‘Sita Rama Kalyanams’, reflecting the deep-rooted cultural significance of the festival.

Temples were decorated with buntings, marigold garlands, and colourful lights, while flagpoles lined the approach roads. Many temples also organised ‘annadanam’, serving community meals to devotees.

Later in the day, processions carrying the deities were taken through main streets, continuing a long-standing tradition. Markets bustled with activity as people purchased festive items and offerings.