KATHMANDU: Hindus across Nepal are celebrating Ram Nawami today marking the birth of Lord Ram, also known as Maryada Purushottam, a symbol of truth, dignity and justice.

The festival falls on the ninth day of the bright half of the lunar month of Chaitra. It commemorates the birth of Lord Ram believed to be an incarnation of the Hindu god Vishnu, born to King Dasharatha and Queen Kausalya in Ayodhya during the Treta Yuga.

From early morning devotees have been visiting temples and shrines dedicated to Lord Ram. Large crowds gathered at major temples in the Kathmandu Valley including Battisputali to offer prayers.

In Janakpurdham, thousands of devotees have thronged the famous Ram Janaki Temple. A fair is being held on the temple premises, drawing pilgrims from across Nepal and neighboring India.

Many devotees are also taking holy dips in Gangasagar before offering prayers at the temple. Religious activities include recitals of the Ramayana and singing of hymns with some observing night long prayers.

Ram Nawami celebrates the victory of truth over evil and light over darkness. Lord Ram is widely regarded as an ideal figure a devoted son, a just ruler and a symbol of moral values.

His reign often referred to as Ram Rajya, is still remembered as a model of good governance and justice.