The “Pran Pratishtha” ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024, marked the end of 500 years of exile for the Lord’s devotees in India and across the country. This sacred occasion not only fulfilled the religious aspirations of millions but also symbolized the restoration of a cultural and spiritual heritage deeply rooted in the collective consciousness of India.
From the elite class strolling along Mumbai’s Marine Drive to a street vendor in Tamil Nadu and a youth in the northeastern states of Bharat, the spirit of ‘Ramamay’ permeates across the nation. The collective joy is palpable, especially in light of recent decades marked by incidents that even cast doubt on the existence of their beloved deity, Shri Rama. After enduring lengthy court battles and facing various challenges, the dawn of happiness arrives swiftly with the decisive actions of the Hon’ble court and the proactive measures taken by the Government of India and Uttar Pradesh in response to the court’s directives.
The ceremony was graced by a multitude of notable figures, comprising approximately 3,000 VVIPs, 4,000 revered saints and seers hailing from various regions of the nation, as well as representatives from 50 nations across the globe. Additionally, among the attendees were the relatives of the ‘Kar Sevaks’ who actively participated in the Ram temple movement.
After the completion of the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony at the Ram Temple, Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored the workers of the construction crew by showering them with flower petals. Addressing the vast assembly, he emphasized, “Ram isn’t the problem; Ram is the answer,” highlighting the significance of Lord Ram’s unifying presence.
During the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed, “Ram embodies energy, not mere fire. He represents the solution, not conflict. Ram’s essence transcends ownership; he belongs to all. His presence isn’t confined to the moment; it’s eternal.” PM Modi also conveyed his appreciation to the Supreme Court for delivering justice, enabling the construction of the temple.
The Pages of History
In 1853, over two centuries after the Babri Masjid’s construction, religious violence erupted when a Hindu sect claimed the mosque was built upon a Hindu temple’s ruins during Nawab Wajid Shah’s rule.By January 1885, Mahant Raghubir Das sought permission to build a canopy on Ramchabutra outside the mosque, but the request was denied.In 1949, Gopal Singh Visharad filed a petition to worship Ram Janambhoomi’s deity after idols of Ram Lalla were found inside Babri Masjid, sparking civil suits. The government declared the site disputed, locking its gates.
The idol of the Ideal
The grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya represents centuries of devotion, embodied in the magnificent idol of Ram Lalla. Crafted from resilient black stone, the idol depicts a charming 5-year-old Ram, exuding divine innocence. Renowned jeweler Ankur Anand and his team meticulously adorned Ram Lalla with breathtaking ornaments, drawing inspiration from sacred scriptures like the Ramayana.
Meanwhile, textile designer Manish Tripathi spun magic into Banarasi fabric, fashioning a regal ensemble for Ram Lalla with a vibrant yellow dhoti and a crimson pataka, adorned with pure gold zari and auspicious Vaishnav symbols. This creation is not just a feat of craftsmanship but a testament to unwavering dedication and a deep understanding of India’s cultural heritage, resonating with millions and bringing them closer to the divine essence of Lord Ram.
The Glorious Temple Structure
The Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, crafted by celebrated architect Chandrakant B Sompura in collaboration with his son Ashish, stands as a magnificent testament to architectural brilliance. It is constructed in the traditional Nagara style, spanning 380 feet in length (east-west), 250 feet in width, and rising to a majestic height of 161 feet. Supported by 392 pillars and 44 doors, this three-storied structure boasts intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities throughout its walls and pillars.
The main sanctum sanctorum houses the idol of Shri Ram Lalla, while the first floor features a Shri Ram Darbar. Five mandaps within the temple cater to various rituals and ceremonies. Notably, the temple complex includes shrines dedicated to Surya Dev, Devi Bhagwati, Ganesh Bhagwan, Bhagwan Shiv, Maa Annapurna, and Hanuman ji.
The construction adopts a unique approach, eschewing steel or iron in favor of traditional materials like Bansi Paharpur Pink Sandstone, granite, and marble. Special bricks inscribed with “Shri Ram” symbolically connect modern craftsmanship with ancient symbolism. Moreover, emphasis on environmental sustainability is evident through water conservation efforts and green spaces covering 70% of the 70-acre area.
With an estimated expenditure of ₹1,800 crore, meticulous planning and execution bring this architectural marvel to fruition, underscoring a harmonious blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and environmental consciousness.
Author : Tirth Shah
Author Description : Tirth Shah is a civil engineering professional associated with soil testing for 4 years. He is also an ancestral farmer, looking after his farms. He is actively associated with farmers and stakeholders of farming in rural areas.
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