News Analysis India

Tag: Ram Temple Pran-Pratishtha

  • India Celebrates Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ In Ayodhya By Lighting Diyas, Fireworks |

    AYODHYA: Diwali is being celebrated across India with millions of Ram Lalla devotees lighting up earthen lamps (diyas) to celebrate the Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ in the holy city of Ayodhya on Monday. Fireworks also adorned the night sky over Ayodhya and many other cities to celebrate the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ of Ram Lalla amid full Vedic rituals.

     

    #WATCH | Fireworks adorn the sky over Ayodhya to celebrate ‘Pran Pratishtha’ of Ram Lalla pic.twitter.com/L1zVVNkHPu
    — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

     

    In a radiant spectacle, Ayodhya’s Saryu Ghat was illuminated with thousands of ‘diyas’ after the conclusion of the Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony. Thousands of devotees also lit up earthen lamps in Ayodhya’s famous Hanuman Garhi temple, ushering in widespread celebrations for the Ram temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’.

     

    #WATCH | Saryu ghat illuminated with hundreds of diyas after Ayodhya Ram temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ pic.twitter.com/caYQx815MF
    — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

     

    Har Ki Pauri Aglow: Haridwar Celebrates Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’

    Echoing similar sentiments, Haridwar’s Har Ki Pauri was also decorated with earthen lamps, mirroring the jubilation for Ayodhya’s Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’.

     

    #WATCH | Haridwar’s Har Ki Pauri to be lit up with earthen lamps to celebrate Ayodhya Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ pic.twitter.com/72Zo6F87hX
    — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

     

    Nepal’s Janakpur Celebrates ‘Deepotsav’ in Honour of Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’

    In Nepal’s Janakpur, devotees of Ram Lalla joyously celebrated ‘Deepotsav’ to mark the auspicious occasion of Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’.

    Public Darshan Begins: Shri Ram Lalla To Grace Devotees

    Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Chief Priest Acharya Satyendra Das announced that the commencement of public darshan of Shri Ram Lalla will start from Tuesday after the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony.

    Revised Temple Timings For Devotees

    The timings for visiting the Ram Temple have been altered. Starting from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, devotees can now seek the blessings of Ram Lalla. Additionally, the temple will remain closed from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. According to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Trust, Ram Lalla will be offered fruit and milk every hour. The temple will open every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

    Colourful Attire For Ram Lalla

    Ram Lalla will now don different coloured attire on specific days: white on Mondays, red on Tuesdays, green on Wednesdays, yellow on Thursdays, light yellow or cream on Fridays, blue on Saturdays, and pink on Sundays. The new attire has been crafted by skilled artisans associated with the Heritage and Handloom Revival Charitable Trust in Pune, involving 10 to 15 lakh artisans.

    Temple Rituals And Schedule

    After the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony concludes on January 23, the temple will remain closed during the day for cleaning, worship, and adornment of the sanctum sanctorum. Around 3:30 PM to 4:00 PM, the idols and ‘Shri Yantra’ will be awakened with mantras, followed by the ‘Mangala Aarti.’ Subsequently, there will be the consecration ceremony, adorned with rituals and offerings. The ‘Shringar Aarti’ will follow, concluding around 5:00 PM. Morning darshan will begin at 8:00 AM, with a break from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Evening darshan will continue from 3:00 PM until 10:00 PM, interrupted only by the evening ‘Sandhya Aarti’ at 7:00 PM.

    PM Modi Leads Pran Pratishtha Rituals

    The holy city of Ayodhya witnessed a moment of divine significance as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the sacred Pran Pratishtha ceremony on Monday. In the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple, PM Modi conducted the rituals, creating an atmosphere infused with deep devotion. PM Modi performed the ‘aarti’ of the Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. He also performed ‘parikrama’ of the deity and did ‘dandvat pranam’. He also took blessings from ‘sadhus’.

    The childhood form of Lord Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed in the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor of the temple. The ceremony was marked by Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers showering flower petals over the temple premises during the unveiling of the idol.

    Ram Lalla Won’t Stay In A Tent Now: PM Modi

    PM Modi congratulated people on the Pran Prathistha ceremony in Ayodhya temple and said Ram Lalla will not stay in a tent now. “Many congratulations to all the people of the country for this auspicious occasion,” PM Modi said. He said the grand temple has been constructed after centuries of sacrifice. “After centuries of unprecedented patience, countless sacrifices, renunciations and penances, our Prabhu Ram has come…” he said. “Ram Lalla will not stay in a tent now. He will stay in the grand temple…” the Prime Minister added. 

    Distinguished Dignitaries Witness Grand Ceremony

    RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath graced the ceremony, chanting ‘Jai Sri Ram’ along with devotees. Over 8,000 guests attended the ceremony, representing various spiritual and religious sects, including tribal communities. Prime Minister Modi addressed the distinguished gathering and interacted with shramjeevis associated with the temple’s construction.

    Architectural Marvel Of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir

    The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, constructed in traditional Nagara style, stands magnificently with a length of 380 feet, width of 250 feet, and height of 161 feet. It boasts 392 pillars, 44 doors, and intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities.

    The main entrance on the eastern side, accessed by ascending 32 stairs through Singh Dwar, leads to five Mandaps (Halls). Notable features include Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap. The historic Well (Sita koop) and the restored ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv at Kuber Tila add to the cultural richness.

    The Mandir’s foundation, crafted with a 14-meter-thick layer of roller-compacted concrete (RCC), gives it the appearance of artificial rock. The absence of iron and the use of traditional indigenous technology showcase the uniqueness of the construction. A 21-foot-high plinth of granite safeguards against ground moisture. The Mandir complex boasts a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety, and an independent power station, seamlessly blending modern amenities with traditional architecture. 

  • Meet Vikramaditya Singh, The Himachal Congress Leader Who Defied Party To Attend Ram Temple Pran Pratishtha In Ayodhya |

    AYODHYA: In a surprising move, Vikramaditya Singh, a prominent Congress leader and minister in the Himachal Pradesh government, went against his party’s official stance on the Ram Temple inauguration. Despite top Congress leaders boycotting the event, Singh visited the holy city of Ayodhya to partake in the auspicious ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol on Monday.

    A Lone Stand: Himachal Pradesh Declares Half-Day Amid Congress Resistance

    Interestingly, Himachal Pradesh, the sole Congress-ruled state, took a distinctive step by declaring a half-day for all state government workers, showcasing a unique departure from the party’s overall stance.

    Vikramaditya Singh: The Rebel Congress Leader Who Became A ‘State Guest’ In UP

    Vikramaditya Singh, the son of current Himachal Congress chief Pratibha Singh, made headlines as he reached Lucknow from Chandigarh on Sunday. Despite being a Congress leader, he was treated as a ‘state guest’ by the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government.

    ‘Once-In-A-Lifetime’ Opportunity: Singh On Ayodhya Visit

    Earlier on January 8, Singh expressed that attending the Ayodhya ceremony was a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” This came amidst the Congress top brass deciding to stay away from the event, denouncing it as a ‘BJP/RSS event.’

    Congress Leaders Shun Ayodhya Invite

    On January 10, senior Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury declined the invitation, citing the BJP’s attempt to score political points with the ceremony. The Congress labelled the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony as an “RSS and BJP event,” emphasizing their commitment to the 2019 Supreme Court judgment while respecting the sentiments of Lord Ram’s devotees.

    Vikramaditya Singh: Political Scion’s Background And Journey

    Vikramaditya Singh, born in 1989, represents the Shimla Rural constituency as an MLA. Hailing from a political family, he is the son of the late ex-CM Virbhadra Singh, and his mother, Pratibha Singh, currently serves as the MP from Mandi and is the state Congress chief.

    A post-graduate in History from St Stephen’s College, Delhi, Singh served as the chief of the state youth Congress from 2013 to 2017. With two consecutive victories in the elections of 2017 and 2023, he continues to make a mark in Himachal Pradesh politics.

    PM Modi Leads Pran Pratishtha Rituals

    The holy city of Ayodhya witnessed a moment of divine significance as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the sacred Pran Pratishtha ceremony on Monday. In the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple, PM Modi conducted the rituals, creating an atmosphere infused with deep devotion. PM Modi performed the ‘aarti’ of the Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. He also performed ‘parikrama’ of the deity and did ‘dandvat pranam’. He also took blessings from ‘sadhus’.

    The childhood form of Lord Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed in the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor of the temple. The ceremony was marked by Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers showering flower petals over the temple premises during the unveiling of the idol.

    Presence Of Distinguished Dignitaries

    RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath graced the ceremony, chanting ‘Jai Sri Ram’ along with devotees. Over 8,000 guests attended the ceremony, representing various spiritual and religious sects, including tribal communities. Prime Minister Modi addressed the distinguished gathering and interacted with shramjeevis associated with the temple’s construction.

    Architectural Marvel Of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir

    The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, constructed in traditional Nagara style, stands magnificently with a length of 380 feet, width of 250 feet, and height of 161 feet. It boasts 392 pillars, 44 doors, and intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities.

    The main entrance on the eastern side, accessed by ascending 32 stairs through Singh Dwar, leads to five Mandaps (Halls). Notable features include Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap. The historic Well (Sita koop) and the restored ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv at Kuber Tila add to the cultural richness.

    Innovative Construction Methods

    The Mandir’s foundation, crafted with a 14-meter-thick layer of roller-compacted concrete (RCC), gives it the appearance of artificial rock. The absence of iron and the use of traditional indigenous technology showcase the uniqueness of the construction. A 21-foot-high plinth of granite safeguards against ground moisture.

    Modern Amenities In Traditional Ambiance

    The Mandir complex boasts a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety, and an independent power station, seamlessly blending modern amenities with traditional architecture. 

  • ‘RSS-BJP Event’: Congress Says Won’t Attend Ram Temple Inauguration In Ayodhya |

    NEW DELHI: In a major political development, the Congress party on Wednesday said that it has decided to skip the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya slated to be held on January 22. The move, according to a party statement, is attributed to concerns over the event being strategically advanced for electoral gains by the BJP and RSS. ”The inauguration of the incomplete temple by the leaders of the BJP and the RSS has been brought forward for electoral gain,” the statement issued by the Congress party said.

    Congress Leaders Decline Invitation 

    The statement emphasized the Congress party’s commitment to upholding the 2019 Supreme Court judgment while respecting the sentiments of millions who hold Lord Ram in high regard. Notable party figures, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, have gracefully declined the invitation, characterizing the event as distinctly aligned with the RSS and BJP, according to the statement. 

    “Last month, the Congress President and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Shri Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson, Smt. Sonia Gandhi and the Leader of the Congress Party in the Lok Sabha Shri Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury received an invitation to attend the inauguration ceremony of the Ram Mandir at Ayodhya to be held on January 22nd, 2024,” Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said in the statement.

    “Lord Ram is worshipped by millions in our country. Religion is a personal matter. But the RSS/BJP have long made a political project of the temple in Ayodhya. The inauguration of the incomplete temple by the leaders of the BJP and the RSS has been obviously brought forward for electoral gain. While abiding by the 2019 Supreme Court judgment and honouring the sentiments of millions who revere Lord Ram, Shri Mallikarjun Kharge, Smt. Sonia Gandhi and Shri Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury have respectfully declined the invitation to what is clearly an RSS/BJP event,” the statement added.

     

    Here is the statement of Shri @Jairam_Ramesh, General Secretary (Communications), Indian National Congress. pic.twitter.com/JcKIEk3afy


    — Congress (@INCIndia) January 10, 2024

     

    Sonia, Kharge, Chowdhury On The Guest List

    Previously invited to the consecration ceremony on January 22, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, and Lok Sabha leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury were individually extended invitations. The ongoing invitation process is expected to include former prime ministers Manmohan Singh and HD Deve Gowda, along with various other opposition leaders in the coming days.

    Diverse Guest List Raises Eyebrows

    While the heads of major national political parties have received invitations, chief ministers and governors are notably absent from the list, despite their party leadership roles. The inclusive guest list features figures from various domains, including spiritual leaders, actors, industrialists, and heads of temples like Kashi Vishwanath and Vaishno Devi.

    Advani, Joshi Invited Amid Health Concerns

    In a notable move, the Vishva Hindu Parishad has extended invitations to BJP veterans LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi, key figures from the ’90s Ram Mandir movement. Both leaders, now in their nineties, expressed their intent to participate, contingent on their health conditions.

    PM Modi To Attend Idol Installation

    The grand ceremony is set to witness the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will be attending the installation of the idol of Ram Lalla. As per temple officials, the ceremony will be held over seven days starting from January 16. Preparations are underway in full swing for the Ram Temple ‘Pran Pratishtha’ on January 22, which will draw dignitaries and people from all walks of life. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has decided to enthrone Ram Lalla at the sanctum-sanctorum of the Ram Temple at noon on January 22. 

    Vedic rituals for the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya will begin on January 16, a week before the main ceremony. A priest from Varanasi, Lakshmi Kant Dixit, will perform the main rituals of the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla on January 22. From January 14 to January 22, Ayodhya will mark the Amrit Mahotsav. Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, holds great spiritual, historical, and cultural significance for the people of India.