Ayodhya, 22 January – In a momentous event that reverberated with religious fervor, the city of Ayodhya witnessed the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the newly constructed Ram Mandir today. The sacred consecration marks a significant milestone in the decades-long saga surrounding the construction of the temple dedicated to Lord Ram.
Thousands of devotees and dignitaries from across the country gathered in Ayodhya to witness the historic occasion, which unfolded amidst elaborate rituals and spiritual fervor. The Pran Pratishtha, or consecration of the deities, is a crucial step in the installation of idols inside the temple, signifying the formal establishment of divine presence.
The ceremony began with Vedic chants and rituals conducted by a team of revered priests, creating an atmosphere of solemnity and devotion. The main sanctum of the temple, housing the idol of Lord Ram, was adorned with flowers, garlands, and intricate decorations, reflecting the grandeur of the occasion.
Prominent spiritual leaders, including saints, seers, and religious scholars, graced the event with their presence. The ceremony was also attended by political leaders, adding a secular touch to the celebrations. Security arrangements were tight, ensuring the safety of the attendees and the smooth conduct of the proceedings.
The construction of the Ram Mandir has been a contentious issue for several decades, marked by legal battles and social debates. The Supreme Court of India, in a historic judgment in November 2019, paved the way for the construction of the temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya.
The Pran Pratishtha ceremony was conducted in accordance with the traditional rituals and customs prescribed in the scriptures. It marked the culmination of years of efforts by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, responsible for overseeing the construction of the temple.
In a momentous address to the gathered masses after the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Ram Mandir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi joyously declared, “Ram aa gye hai” (Ram has arrived). The Prime Minister’s words echoed with deep spiritual resonance, marking the culmination of a long-cherished dream for millions of devotees.
Addressing the sea of devotees who had assembled to witness the historic occasion, PM Modi spoke passionately about the significance of the day. “Today, Lord Ram has come to Ayodhya. He will no longer dwell in a tent; he will now reside in a magnificent temple,” he proclaimed, evoking a wave of cheers and applause from the enthusiastic crowd.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi participated in the sacred ‘aarti’ of the Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. The ‘aarti’ ceremony, conducted with profound devotion and ritualistic precision, marked the formal introduction of the deity to the newly constructed temple. The idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled in the presence of the Prime Minister, underscoring the historic nature of the event.
During his address, PM Modi expressed gratitude to the devotees, saints, and seers who had relentlessly contributed to the realization of the Ram Mandir project. He emphasized that the temple is not just a structure but a symbol of India’s cultural ethos and the spirit of unity among its diverse population.
The Prime Minister highlighted the inclusive nature of the Ram Mandir, stating that it is not only a place of worship for Hindus but a testament to the shared heritage of all Indians. He called upon the nation to move forward with a spirit of harmony and brotherhood, transcending religious and cultural divides.
As the day unfolded, Ayodhya resonated with the sounds of chants, prayers, and the jubilant celebrations of devotees who thronged the city to be part of this historic moment. The completion of the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony marks a pivotal chapter in the cultural and religious narrative of India, drawing the attention of the global community.
Prime Minister Modi’s words, “Ram aa gye hai,” will undoubtedly be etched in the hearts of millions as a poignant reminder of the fulfillment of a centuries-old aspiration, symbolizing unity, faith, and the cultural richness of the nation.
The completion of the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony is expected to draw pilgrims and tourists from around the world, contributing to the religious and cultural significance of Ayodhya. The city, already known for its historical and religious importance, is likely to witness increased footfall in the coming days as devotees seek to pay their respects at the newly consecrated temple.