Ayodhya, January 22, 2024 – In a momentous ceremony, the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya was inaugurated, making it a historic day for the nation. The mighty event witnessed esteemed guests, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and dignitaries from various walks of life.
The Pran Pratishtha ceremony, preceded by rituals starting on January 16 and concluding on January 21, showcased the unveiling of the 51-inch idol of Ram Lalla in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. The idol, sculpted by Arun Yogiraj of Mysuru, holds great significance and was central to the sacred proceedings.
#WATCH | Ayodhya: Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla at Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple concludes.#RamMandirPranPrathistha pic.twitter.com/7j6vLrWgSy
— ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024
The grand Ram temple, constructed in the traditional Nagara style, stands at an impressive 380 feet long, 250 feet wide, and 161 feet high. With its three-storeyed structure, 392 pillars, and 44 gates, the temple is set to be open to the public, offering a majestic experience for visitors.
No RamBhakt will pass without liking this post Jai Shree Ram Ram ..! #WorldInAyodhya #JaiShreeRam #राम_अकेले_आए_हैं #AyodhaRamMandir #RamMandirAyodhya #श्रीराम_के_नाम #RamMandirPranPrathistha #सुस्वागतम्_प्रभु_श्री_राम pic.twitter.com/ZkpoxGLIPT
— DINESH Dausa 😈 (@dinesh_lawan) January 22, 2024
As the ceremony unfolded, millions of viewers tuned in through television and online platforms to witness the historic occasion. Several BJP-ruled states, along with Odisha, declared a holiday, and the Union government announced a half-day off to mark the inauguration, reflecting the nationwide significance of the event.
The celebrations extended beyond just Uttar Pradesh, with temples across the country and abroad joining in. Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Hindu diaspora groups in 60 countries organized special festivities from Washington DC to Paris to Sydney, creating a global resonance for the momentous occasion.
The Pran Pratishtha ceremony had a unique dimension with 14 couples from various parts of India acting as hosts. Seven Adhivasas, overseen by 121 Acharyas, were part of the rituals coordinated by Shri Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid, with the principal Acharya being Luckshmikant Dixit of Kashi, according to the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
A notable aspect of the ceremony was the diverse representation, with Acharyas from various schools of spiritualism, religion, sects, and traditions present. The inclusive traditions spanned across Shaiva, Vaishnav, Shaakta, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, and other sects, showcasing unity in diversity. For the first time in recent history, the ceremony witnessed historic tribal representation.
Security measures were comprehensive, featuring AI-powered drones and deployed police personnel across the city. Movable barriers with barbed wires regulated traffic, and multiple NDRF teams were prepared for emergencies. Health arrangements were also in place to handle potential health crises.
Ayodhya was transformed into a decked-up spectacle, adorned with flowers and special lights, creating an atmosphere of religious fervor. The city resonated with slogans like “Ayodhya Rammay ho raha hai” and various verses from the Ramayana, enhancing the festive spirit.
Prominent figures, including Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan, business magnates Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani, and sports icon Sachin Tendulkar, were among the invitees. While opposition leaders declined to attend, people from across the country, cutting across religious lines, made their way to Ayodhya to witness the historic event.
Post the Prana Pratishtha program, witnesses were permitted to have darshan in the Garbha-Griha. Celebrations have extended beyond Ayodhya, with people from different states contributing gifts and offerings, including water, soil, gold, silver, gems, clothes, jewelry, bells, drums, and fragrance items.
In summary, the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya stands as a momentous occasion, steeped in religious and cultural significance, with a diverse and inclusive representation making it a symbol of unity in diversity.
