Worship
Akhand Ramayan
An unbroken recitation of the Ramayana, usually through a day and a night.
When
A day the family chooses. The circle of readers is fixed beforehand.
In an akhand Ramayan the reading does not break. When one reader tires, another takes the seat, but the book stays open and the voice continues. Manas or Valmiki — follow the book your house already keeps. This is not a task for one person. Share the night in turns, agreed before you begin.
Food, water, and rest are part of the arrangement. Holding a guest in the seat by force is not hospitality. Those who can listen should listen. Those who cannot may leave with a blessing.
This is a general introduction. Sequence, materials, and timing change with family, region, and shakha. Your priest and your own custom have the last word.