Ayodhya in Joyful Fervor as Ram Lalla Idol Consecration Nears
As Ayodhya gears up for the consecration of the Ram Lalla idol on Monday, the city is immersed in a devoutly festive atmosphere. Thousands of devotees, including elderly individuals, women, and children, fill the streets chanting “Jai Sri Ram” and “Jai Siyaram,” creating a spirited celebration. The city is adorned with flags, flowers, and Hanuman costumes, radiating vibrancy day and night. Devotees express seeing Lord Rama in every atom of Ayodhya, highlighting the spiritual significance of the occasion.
Ahead of the consecration, the image of the 51-inch tall Ram Lalla idol, carved in ‘Krishna Shila’ and holding a golden bow and arrow, has surfaced on social media. Sculpted by Arun Yogiraj from Mysore, the idol represents Lord Rama at the age of five. The pictures of the idol went viral, capturing the attention of devotees globally. The garbhagriha, where the idol will be consecrated, underwent Navagraha Puja, and today it will be washed with water from the sacred Sarayu river.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the Ram Temple to review preparations and security for the pran-pratishtha ceremony. Former and present Supreme Court justices, including Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and retired justices from the constitutional bench approving the temple’s construction, have been invited to the ceremony. Indian Railways will broadcast the pran-pratishtha live at railway stations on 9000 screens across the country.
However, amid the festivities, the Uttar Pradesh anti-terrorism squad arrested three individuals with alleged links to the banned organization Sikhs for Justice. The arrests were made to prevent any attempt to disrupt the harmony of the sacred event.
Pran-pratishtha, a crucial ritual, involves inviting the aura of a murti (idol) into the temple, enhancing its sacred essence through hymns and mantras. The ceremony holds immense significance as Ayodhya witnesses the consecration of the revered Ram Lalla idol, symbolizing a momentous milestone in the spiritual and cultural heritage of the nation.
