<span style="color: #222222;">In Kerala, the month-long Ramayana Masam or Ramayana Month begins today. It marks the beginning of the month of Karkkidakam, the last month according to the Malayalam calendar.<br />''<br />''Considered a lean month, it coincides with heavy monsoon rains experienced in the state making people spiritually inclined. In Hindu households, slokas from Ramayana are recited at dusk throughout the month. A strict, light vegetarian diet is followed. Recitation of Ramayana is done in temples as well.<br />''<br />''Although auspicious ceremonies are avoided,  the month is considered ideal for undergoing ayurvedic treatment and for pilgrimage.<br />''<br />''The Ramayana month draws to a close on August 16. </span><br />