KATHMANDU, MARCH 27 President Ramchandra Paudel has said that cultural and historical festivals play a vital role in strengthening national unity by fostering mutual trust, harmony, tolerance and cooperation among Nepal's diverse communities. In a message on the occasion of Ram Navami, he expressed hope that the festival would promote mutual understanding, sustainable peace and fraternity among Nepalis at home and abroad. Ram Navami, observed on the ninth day of the bright fortnight of Chaitra, marks the birth anniversary of Lord Ramachandra, revered as the epitome of virtue. The day is believed to bring blessings and fulfil wishes through special worship. The President noted that such age-old traditions help preserve Nepal's ancient civilisation, religion and culture, while symbolising the victory of righteousness over evil. The festival is celebrated across the country with fairs and religious activities, particularly at the Ram Janaki Temple. Meanwhile, Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav also extended greetings, wishing for happiness, peace, prosperity and good health of all Nepalis. In his message, he described Ram Navami as not only a religious festival but also an occasion to embrace the ideals of truth, duty and dignity represented by Lord Ram. He emphasised the importance of indigenous traditions, culture and faith in steering society away from negative tendencies, expressing hope that the festival would help guide Nepali society away from frustration and moral decline.