Temple Keepers Warned

As Hindu devotees around the country gather to observe Ram Navami, Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji president Dhirendra Nand is advising temple management to exercise caution and consider the safe keeping of all cash donations, musical instruments and sound systems.

Mr Nand said Ram Navami started yesterday and it would continue for another eight days with people gathering every night.

“I would like to strongly encourage the groups not to leave large amounts of money in the temple,” Mr Nand said.

“This is for the safety of everyone and the protection of our deities.”

He said Ram Navami holds immense significance to Hindus worldwide, symbolising the triumph of good over evil and the victory of righteousness.

The celebration is marked with devotional songs, recitation of scriptures, and community prayers, all of which serve to reinforce the timeless teachings of Lord Ram.

Police proactive measures

Police Chief of Operations, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Livai Driu said community policing teams have been visiting temples in Fiji.

“They are offering advice about safety and security and how money can be secured in anticipation of the offering and to reach out to Police in circumstance where assistance is needed,” ACP Driu said.

Celebration preparation

Shree Sai Ambaji Darbaar priest Mandhir Singh said the purpose of celebrating Ram Navami was to bring Lord Ram’s teaching and lessons to life.

Narrating the life story of Lord Ram, Mr Singh said the celebration was deeply connected with the Ramayana.

“Ramayana, the story of Lord Ram was well-written magnificently by the sage Valmiki and people learned about his impeccable deeds and divine characteristics through the words of the epic Ramayana,” Mr Singh said.

“Lord Ram was born in an ancient place called Ayodhya as the son of king Dasaratha and queen Kaushalya.”

Lord Rama’s life was deeply rooted in adventures and challenges.

It included expulsion from Ayodhya, confronting demon king Ravan, and saving his wife Sita from his captivity.

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