Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended his wishes to the people on the first anniversary of the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, calling it a symbol of India’s rich heritage, culture, and spirituality.
In a post on X, PM Modi expressed, “Best wishes to all fellow citizens on the first anniversary of the Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. This temple, built after centuries of sacrifice, penance, and struggle, is a great heritage of our culture and spirituality.” He also added, “I am confident that this divine and magnificent Ram temple will serve as a great inspiration in fulfilling the vision of a developed India.”
The three-day celebrations began on January 11, coinciding with the alignment of the Hindu calendar. Last year, the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony took place on Kurma Dwadashi during the Shukla Paksha of the Paush month in the Hindu calendar. This year, the Shukla Paksha falls on January 11.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is set to inaugurate the event by performing the Abhishek of Ram Lalla. The day’s rituals will start with Agnihotra chanting from the Shukla Yajurveda, followed by the recitation of 6 lakh Shri Ram mantras, the Ram Raksha Stotra, and Hanuman Chalisa.
Various programs are planned throughout the day, including a ‘Rag Seva’ event from 3 pm to 5 pm, and a congratulatory song at 6 pm. A Musical Manas recitation will take place at the passenger convenience centre, and a Ram Katha, along with a cultural program, will be held at the ‘Angad Tila’ inside the temple.
The Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust reported that over 2 lakh devotees visited the temple on January 1, marking the first day of the year. Since the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony, the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir has become a significant pilgrimage destination for millions.
The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir is constructed in traditional Nagara architectural style. It spans 380 feet in length (east-west), 250 feet in width, and rises to a height of 161 feet. The temple is supported by 392 pillars and 44 doors, with intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses. The main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor houses the idol of Shri Ram Lalla, depicting the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram.
The number of devotees visiting Ayodhya and the Hanumangarhi Ram Temple has been steadily rising, reflecting the growing significance of the Ram Temple in the hearts of millions of Indians.
