Overview
- Drik Panchang, cited Tuesday by multiple outlets, lists the Navami tithi from 11:48 am on Thursday, March 26, to 10:06 am on Friday, March 27, creating two valid observance windows.
- Ayodhya’s Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, through General Secretary Champat Rai, says Ram Navami will be observed on Friday, March 27.
- Several calendars and temples favor Thursday because the Madhyahna muhurat, tied to Rama’s midday birth, falls around noon on March 26, with listings such as 11:13 am to 1:41 pm.
- Guidance reported by panchang sources notes the sunrise rule places festivals on the day the tithi exists at dawn, and many also advise fasting on the first Navami and breaking it on Friday after 10:06 am.
- Local schedules reflect the split, with Mumbai temples planning major abhishekams on March 27 while others hold events on March 26, as devotees prepare midday puja and simple prasad like panakam and kheer.