Amidst a splendid event on Monday, the commencement of the Ram Mandir inauguration unfolded, graced by distinguished personalities including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and the eminent actors Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth.
In a momentous event on Monday, the much-anticipated dedication of the Ram Mandir unfolded in a lavish ceremony, etching a historic chapter in the nation’s narrative. Prime Minister Narendra Modi graced the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, commencing at 12:20 pm and set to conclude by 1 pm. Addressing a gathering surpassing 7,000 attendees, including revered seers and prominent figures, PM Narendra Modi presided over the proceedings. Alongside him, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and Governor Anandiben Patel participated in the collective homage to Ram Lalla.
The ceremonial rituals, initiated on January 16, reached their culmination on January 21. The 51-inch idol of Ram Lalla, crafted by Arun Yogiraj of Mysuru, graced the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.
Ayodhya Ram Temple Inauguration: Yajmaans, Special Guests, And Rituals
The Pran Pratishtha ceremony unfolded with a distinctive touch, featuring 14 couples from various corners of India as the yajmaans (hosts). The intricate rituals encompassed Seven Adhivasas, meticulously overseen by 121 Acharyas. The orchestration of the ceremony was under the guidance of Shri Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid, with the principal Acharya identified as Luckshmikant Dixit of Kashi, as stated by the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
Among the esteemed attendees were Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and other dignitaries.
A noteworthy facet of the ceremony lies in its diverse representation, featuring Acharyas from various schools of spiritualism, religious denominations, sects, and traditions. The inclusivity spans across Shaiva, Vaishnav, Shaakta, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, and other sects, highlighting unity in diversity, according to the Trust.
The Prana Pratistha ceremony made history with its unprecedented tribal representation, encompassing individuals from hills, forests, coastal belts, and islands.
Comprehensive security measures were implemented, with police personnel strategically stationed across the city. Movable barriers adorned with barbed wires regulated traffic, while multiple National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams stood ready for potential emergencies. Health arrangements were also in place to address potential health crises, as reported by PTI.
Ayodhya underwent a transformation with floral decorations and special lighting, creating an ambiance steeped in religious fervor. The city echoed with chants like “Ayodhya Rammay ho raha hai” and verses from the Ramayana, amplifying the festive atmosphere, as per PTI.
Notable personalities, including Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan, business tycoons Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani, and sports legend Sachin Tendulkar, numbered among the invitees. Despite the absence of opposition leaders, individuals from diverse religious backgrounds traveled to Ayodhya, showcasing widespread faith in Lord Ram and marking this event as historic.
Following the Prana Pratishtha program, all witnesses will be granted darshan in the Garbha-Griha. Celebrations have transcended Ayodhya, with contributions pouring in from different states, including gifts such as water, soil, gold, silver, gems, clothes, jewelry, bells, drums, and fragrant items.
A majestic edifice, the grand Ram temple, constructed in the traditional Nagara style, spans 380 feet in length, 250 feet in width, and soars to a height of 161 feet. With its three stories, 392 pillars, and 44 gates, the structure is destined to be accessible to the public in due course.
As the unfolding spectacle captivates the audience, hundreds of thousands are tuned in via television and online platforms, bearing witness to this historic juncture. States governed by the BJP, Odisha, and the Union government have declared holidays, with the latter announcing a half-day off to commemorate the inauguration.
The ceremony, hosted in Ayodhya, the hallowed birthplace of Lord Ram, witnessed meticulous preparations on Sunday, transforming the city into a resplendent spectacle. Temples worldwide partook in the festivities, with special celebrations orchestrated from Washington DC to Paris to Sydney, under the auspices of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Hindu diaspora groups spanning 60 countries, as reported by the news agency PTI.