Hundreds of Hindus in Auckland spent the past nine days attending discourses on Lord Rama, with Bhajans and Artis to commemorate Rama Navami, culminating in the Birth of an Avatar of Lord Vishnu.
Om Kaar Mandali in Otahuhu (66 Atkinson Avenue), next to Food 4 Less Supermarket was the scene of hectic activity, with daily events that were held from April 4 to 12.
Pandit Hari Prasad Sharma conducted the daily prayers, explaining to people the significance of the event.
The birth or appearance of Sri Rama, an incarnation of the Protector of the Universe, is hailed as a significant event in Hindu Mythology and a point of focus in Indian epic, Ramayana.
While Hindus the world over mark the occasion with prayers, entertainment and even sporting events, scholars say the real significance of the Sri Rama Navami should be understood and emulated. Sri Rama epitomised obedience and duty towards parents, conjugal fidelity, patience, perseverance and love towards fellow beings.
But the reincarnation also taught not to subjugate oneself to tyranny, discern the right from the wrong and rise against the latter. Diplomacy and fairness were also demonstrated, as Sri Rama tells demon king Ravana to release his wife held in captivity and mend his ways. It was only when peace efforts failed that he declared war on Sri Lanka and vanquished the evil monarch.
Reports of special events held at homes have also been received from readers around the country.
