Importance Of The Month Of Ramayana

The Reason Behind The Month Of Ramayana

The month of Karkidaka is plagued with heavy and torrential rains. In the olden days, this meant scarcity of food and means. It also brought with it illnesses and chaos. This is why people are focused on spiritual pursuits. They spend the time praying to god to deliver them from all harm.

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Pilgrimage To The 'Nalambalam'

Other than reading the Ramayana, people also go on a pilgrimage to visit the four Temples (Naalambalam). The pilgrimage often begins from the Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple and then proceeds to the four temples. The four temples are- Sree Rama Temple at Triprayar, Bharatha Temple at Irinjalakuda, Lakshmana Temple at Moozhikkulam and Shathrughna Temple at Payammel. As evident from the names, the Temples are dedicated to Lord Sri Rama and his brothers.

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Significance Of Karkidakam

It is believed that it was during the month of Karkidaka that the sage Valmiki finished writing the epic Ramayana.

Vavu Bali

Amavasi or the no-moon day of Karkidaka sees people perform rituals for their dead ancestors. People visit riverbanks and seashores to perform the ritual which is called Vavu Bali. It falls on August 14 this year.

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Karkidaka Kanji

Karkidaka Kanji is a spicy rice gruel made with many medicinal herbs. It is an age-old tradition to consume it during the month of Karkidakam. It benefits the immune system and helps keep the seasonal diseases at bay.

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Reading Sundar Kand

Sundar Kand of the Ramayana, which deals with the feats of Hanuman, is thought to be of special significance. Often, people who are unable to read the whole Ramayana, only read the Sundar Kand.