Rama is the seventh avatara of Vishnu and the hero of the Ramayana: the exiled prince of Ayodhya who rescues Sita from Ravana and rules as the model of dharma. His birthday is Ramanavami, his worship is central to Vaishnavism, and Ayodhya is his great pilgrimage site.
Modern Practice
Invoked for right conduct, courage in exile and the keeping of promises. The Ramayana is read as a guide to dharma in household and public life.