Belapur Gaon is abuzz with anticipation as the century-old Ramnavami utsav, which commenced on the auspicious day of Gudi Padwa, gears up for its grand finale on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. The Ram Janma utsav, marking the birth of Lord Rama, will commence at 12:40 PM at the historic Belapur Gaon Ram Mandir.

The temple, reminiscent of the Peshwa era, retains its timeless charm, having undergone recent renovations to adorn it with exquisite marble work. The Ram Maruti Janam Utsav Mandal, entrusted with the temple's upkeep, has spared no effort in ensuring that this year's Ram Janam Utsav becomes a monumental celebration for the Belapur community.

Kirtan mandals from across the state have been assembled, while shops and kiosks line up near the temple grounds for the traditional fair, locally known as Jatra. The local populace eagerly awaits the festivities, with preparations in full swing.

The Ram Janam Utsav kicked off on Gudi Padwa with the ceremonial abhishek of Lord Rama, accompanied by the adornment of the temple with over 100 kgs of flowers, transforming the complex into a sight of grandeur. Devotees from far and wide have already begun flocking to pay their respects.

Chandrakant Patil, President of the Ram Maruti Janam Utsav Mandal, expressed, "Previously, this was the sole Ram Janam Utsav within the Thane-Kalwa region, and to this day, it remains the largest. We anticipate a turnout of several lakhs this year as well."

The popular Jatra, synonymous with the fair, has set up tents and attractions such as giant wheels and merry-go-rounds to entice visitors. The narrow lanes around the temple are bustling with roadside vendors. Additionally, the traditional Kirtan, locally known as Laith, has been captivating audiences with devotional songs and hymns every evening since April 9th.

Adding to the excitement is the three-day-long Kusthi (wrestling) tournament, a major crowd-puller event, with wrestlers from places as distant as Pune and Raigad vying for the prestigious 'Belapur Kesari' title.