News Analysis India

Tag: Ram Temple

  • Destiny decided construction of Ram temple, chose PM Modi for this: L K Advani

    Destiny had decided that a grand temple of Lord Ram will be built in Ayodhya and it chose Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this, BJP stalwart L K Advani has said in an article to be published in a special edition of the ‘Rashtra Dharma’ magazine next week. In his article ‘Ram Mandir Nirman, Ek Divya Swapna Ki Purti’, Advani referred to the ‘Rath Yatra’ he took out 33 years ago for Ram temple construction and said he believes the Ayodhya movement was the “most decisive and transformative event” in his political journey which allowed him to “re-discover India and, in the process, re-understand himself”.

    The BJP veteran, who was at the forefront of the Ram temple agitation, also remembered former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, saying he is feeling his absence ahead of the grand consecration event at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

    “Today the Rath Yatra completed 33 years. When we started the Rath Yatra on the morning of September 25, 1990, we did not know that the faith in Lord Ram with which we were starting this Yatra would take the form of a movement in the country,” a source quoted Advani as saying in his article. In his article to be published in a special edition of the 76-year-old Hindi magazine ‘Rashtra Dharma’ on January 16, sources said Advani has noted that current prime minister Narendra Modi was with him throughout the Rath Yatra.

    “He was not very famous then. But at that very time Lord Ram had chosen his devotee (Modi) to rebuild his temple,” a source quoted the BJP veteran as saying in his article.

    “At that time I felt that destiny had decided that one day a grand temple of Shri Ram would definitely be built in Ayodhya,” Advani said, adding, “Well, now it’s only a matter of time”. The consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya is set to be organised on January 22. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, thousands of seers from across the country and other dignitaries have been invited for the ceremony. More than a lakh devotees are expected to descend on the temple town on the occasion of “Pran Pratishtha (consecration)”. “When Prime Minister Narendra Modi consecrates the (Lord Ram’s idol at the) temple, he will represent every citizen of our India. I pray that this temple inspires all Indians to adopt the qualities of Shri Ram,” Advani said.

    “During the Rath Yatra, there were many experiences which influenced my life. Unknown people from remote villages would come to me overwhelmed with emotion after seeing the chariot. They would do ‘pranam’, chant Lord Ram’s name and leave.

    “This was a message that there were many people who dreamt of the Ram temple… With the consecration of the temple on January 22, the suppressed desires of those villagers will also stand fulfilled,” he added.

    According to the Vishva Hindu Parishad, 96-year-old Advani will attend the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya.

    “He has congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modiji for bringing this moment, building a grand Ram Lala temple and fulfilling his resolution,” a source said referring to Advani’s article for the magazine.

    A copy of the special edition of the magazine with Advani’s article will be shared with all those who will attend the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya, sources added.

  • World’s Tallest Statue Of Lord Ram To Be Installed Near Saryu River Bank In Ayodhya |

    New Delhi/Ayodhya: Amid fervent preparations for the grand Ram Temple consecration ceremony on January 22, 2024, a monumental revelation has emerged. An 823-foot-tall statue of Lord Rama, affectionately known as Ram Lalla, is set to adorn the banks of the Saryu River. This colossal sculpture is currently taking shape in a factory in Manesar, Haryana.

    A Divine Vision Unveiled

    As the global gaze remains fixated on the imminent consecration of the divine idol in Ayodhya, the spotlight now shifts to the anticipated manifestation of Lord Rama’s divine form at his sacred birthplace. Renowned sculptor Narender Kumawat from Haryana has been entrusted with the task of crafting this monumental statue, poised to etch its mark in the annals of world records.

    Potential Record For the Tallest Idol

    This colossal masterpiece is slated to grace the banks of the Saryu River in Ayodhya. If this visionary project comes to fruition, it promises not only to embody Lord Rama’s grandeur but also to stand as the world’s tallest statue, weighing a monumental 13,000 tons.

    Surpassing Heights: A Monumental Feat

    In a realm where heights signify milestones, Ayodhya’s proposed idol, surpassing the current record held by Sardar Patel’s 790-foot statue in Kevadia, Gujarat, could redefine monumental sculptures globally.

    Artistry Beyond Borders

    Highlighting an intriguing aspect, a significant portion – approximately 70-80% – of the statue’s creation occurred in China. Narender Kumawat envisions this statue as a symbol of Swadeshi craftsmanship, subject to final budget approval, potentially becoming the world’s tallest statue entirely crafted within India.

    Narender Kumawat, the visionary artist behind this creation, asserts that beyond its visual grandeur, the statue stands as a testament to his artistic prowess. If funded, this idol not only represents Lord Rama but also claims a spot as the fourth-largest statue globally, following the colossal representation of Lord Shiva in Nathdwara, Rajasthan.

    Crafted from ‘Panch Dhatu’

    Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has already given his approval for the prototype of this divine idol. Crafted from a combination of five sacred metals (‘Panch Dhatu’), the sculpture is estimated to cost around Rs 3,000 Crore to complete. Until the budgetary approval is secured, a 10-foot prototype offers a sneak peek into the monumental masterpiece in the making.

    A Legacy of Artistry

    Narender Kumawat’s artistic influence extends beyond the impending statue. His creative touch is evident in various monumental creations across India, including the hand sculpture at NaMo Ghat in Ayodhya, a statue of Baba Saheb Ambedkar at the Supreme Court of India, and depictions within the new Parliament of India, showcasing his diverse and unparalleled artistic talents.

    PM Modi, 4000 Saints to Attend Event

    Despite controversies, the trust has extended invitations to 4,000 saints of all sects for the ceremony. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is confirmed to attend the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Vedic rituals will commence on January 16, leading up to the main ceremony on January 22.

    Elaborate Preparations For The Jan 22 Event

    Vedic priest Lakshmi Kant Dixit from Varanasi will lead the main rituals, with Ayodhya’s festivities marking the Amrit Mahautsav from January 14 to January 22. A 1008 Hundi Mahayagya will accompany several tent cities in Ayodhya, accommodating devotees. The Sri Ram Janambhoomi Trust is preparing for 10,000-15,000 attendees, with local authorities enhancing security and logistical measures for a seamless and spiritually enriching experience.

  • Ayodhya Ram Temple Complex To Offer State-Of-Art Facilities; Champat Rai Shares Details |

    NEW DELHI: In a significant development, Secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, Champat Rai, has revealed that the soon-to-be-constructed Ayodhya Ram Temple will have state-of-the-art facilities for devotees in its complex. The complex aims to provide modern amenities and services, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience for the estimated 25,000 pilgrims.

    Pilgrimage Facility Centre To Offer Locker, Small Hospital

    Champat Rai announced that the Pilgrimage Facility Centre (PFC) will boast locker facilities capable of accommodating 25,000 pilgrims, ensuring the safety of their belongings. Additionally, a small hospital is set to be constructed near the PFC, emphasizing the organizers’ commitment to the well-being of devotees.

    Comprehensive Facilities Including Toilets And Sewer Treatment Plants

    Addressing the essential needs of the pilgrims, a vast complex is dedicated to toilets and other facilities, with the added provision of two sewer treatment plants. This forward-thinking approach aims to manage waste materials efficiently, contributing to a clean and hygienic environment.

    Map Reveals Temple Construction Progress, Layout

    Champat Rai shared insights into the temple construction, highlighting the completion of the ground floor and the ongoing construction of the first floor. The northern part of the 70-acre land has been allocated for the three-storeyed temple, aligning with the Supreme Court’s directives. A detailed map illustrated the designated areas, offering transparency regarding the project’s progress.

    ‘Atmanirbhar’ Temple Complex With Green Initiatives

    The under-construction Ram temple complex is set to be ‘atmanirbhar’ (self-reliant), incorporating sewage and water treatment plants. Officials affirm that the complex will prioritize green spaces, with 70% of the 70-acre area dedicated to lush greenery. Two sewage treatment plants, a water treatment plant, and a dedicated power line underscore the commitment to sustainability.

    Accessibility For All

    Ensuring accessibility for all, the temple complex will feature facilities for the elderly and specially-abled visitors. A lift facility and two ramps at the entrance aim to ease movement, making the complex inclusive and accommodating.

    Jatayu Statue On Kuber Tila

    Champat Rai concluded the presentation with the announcement of the installation of a statue of Jatayu on Kuber Tila in Ayodhya, adding a cultural and spiritual dimension to the grand project.

    As the Ayodhya Ram Temple Complex takes shape, these comprehensive plans showcase a harmonious blend of modern amenities, environmental consciousness, and cultural richness, setting the stage for an unparalleled pilgrimage experience.

  • Ram temple in Ayodhya to be consecrated on January 22, PM Modi accepts invitation to ceremony

    Express News Service

    LUCKNOW: The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on Wednesday said that the idol of Lord Ram would be consecrated in the ‘sanctum sanctorum’ of the Ram temple in Ayodhya on January 22.

    Confirming the date of consecration, temple trust general secretary Champat Rai said that PM Narendra Modi had accepted the invitation to be a part of the ceremony.

    The members of the temple trust along with treasurer Govind Giriji Maharaj and chairman, Temple Construction Committee, Nripendra Mishra, had met PM Modi at his residence in New Delhi on Wednesday.

    “Today we, the members of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Keshtra Trust, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We invited him (PM Modi) to come to Ayodhya to install the idol of Lord Ram in the Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum) on January 22, 2024. He has accepted our request. He will be present during the ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22. The date for ‘Pran Pratishtha’ (consecration) on January 22 is confirmed,” Champat Rai said.

    He added that for the consecration ceremony, which would take place at 12:30 pm on January 22, 4000 saints and seers from across the country and around 2500 dignitaries would be present.

    After meeting the temple trust members, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his happiness through a post on social media site X.

    The PM said he felt blessed and it was his good fortune that he would be a witness to such a historic occasion.

    “Jai Siya Ram! Today is a day full of emotions. Recently, the officials of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust had come to meet me at my residence. They invited me to come to Ayodhya on the occasion of consecration of Shri Ram temple. I feel very blessed. It is my good fortune that in my lifetime, I will witness this historic occasion,” wrote PM Modi on X.

    Earlier, Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat had hinted at January 22 as the date for the consecration ceremony during his Vijayadashmi address on Tuesday.

    The RSS chief had said that the idol of Lord Ram would be installed at the Ayodhya temple on January 22. He had asked people to organise programmes at temples across the country to celebrate the occasion.

    It may be recalled that the foundation stone for the construction of the Ram temple was laid by PM Modi on August 5, 2020 following the Supreme Court’s verdict on November 9, 2019 to settle the vexed Ayodhya issue and paving way for the construction of a grand Ram temple.

    Following the apex court verdict, the Centre set up the Shri Ram Janma Bhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust to oversee the temple construction on the Ram Janmabhoomi premises and take all decisions regarding it.

    The preparations for the consecration ceremony are on at a war footing in the temple town with the first floor of the upcoming temple comprising the sanctum sanctorum nearing completion.

    As per temple trust sources, around five lakh devotees are expected from across the globe to witness the consecration ceremony. The celebrations would start from January 15 and continue till January 25.

    ALSO READ | UP gears up to tackle pilgrims’ rush in Ayodhya Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

    LUCKNOW: The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on Wednesday said that the idol of Lord Ram would be consecrated in the ‘sanctum sanctorum’ of the Ram temple in Ayodhya on January 22.

    Confirming the date of consecration, temple trust general secretary Champat Rai said that PM Narendra Modi had accepted the invitation to be a part of the ceremony.

    The members of the temple trust along with treasurer Govind Giriji Maharaj and chairman, Temple Construction Committee, Nripendra Mishra, had met PM Modi at his residence in New Delhi on Wednesday.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-8052921-2’); });

    “Today we, the members of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Keshtra Trust, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We invited him (PM Modi) to come to Ayodhya to install the idol of Lord Ram in the Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum) on January 22, 2024. He has accepted our request. He will be present during the ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22. The date for ‘Pran Pratishtha’ (consecration) on January 22 is confirmed,” Champat Rai said.

    He added that for the consecration ceremony, which would take place at 12:30 pm on January 22, 4000 saints and seers from across the country and around 2500 dignitaries would be present.

    After meeting the temple trust members, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his happiness through a post on social media site X.

    The PM said he felt blessed and it was his good fortune that he would be a witness to such a historic occasion.

    “Jai Siya Ram! Today is a day full of emotions. Recently, the officials of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust had come to meet me at my residence. They invited me to come to Ayodhya on the occasion of consecration of Shri Ram temple. I feel very blessed. It is my good fortune that in my lifetime, I will witness this historic occasion,” wrote PM Modi on X.

    Earlier, Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat had hinted at January 22 as the date for the consecration ceremony during his Vijayadashmi address on Tuesday.

    The RSS chief had said that the idol of Lord Ram would be installed at the Ayodhya temple on January 22. He had asked people to organise programmes at temples across the country to celebrate the occasion.

    It may be recalled that the foundation stone for the construction of the Ram temple was laid by PM Modi on August 5, 2020 following the Supreme Court’s verdict on November 9, 2019 to settle the vexed Ayodhya issue and paving way for the construction of a grand Ram temple.

    Following the apex court verdict, the Centre set up the Shri Ram Janma Bhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust to oversee the temple construction on the Ram Janmabhoomi premises and take all decisions regarding it.

    The preparations for the consecration ceremony are on at a war footing in the temple town with the first floor of the upcoming temple comprising the sanctum sanctorum nearing completion.

    As per temple trust sources, around five lakh devotees are expected from across the globe to witness the consecration ceremony. The celebrations would start from January 15 and continue till January 25.

    ALSO READ | UP gears up to tackle pilgrims’ rush in Ayodhya Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

  • Ayodhya temple trust ropes in renowned sculptors to make Lord Ram’s idol

    Express News Service

    LUCKNOW:  With the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya going on in full swing, Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust has roped in famous sculptors from across the country for making a model of the Ram Lalla idol to be installed in the under-construction temple in Ayodhya.

    The idol will be sculpted in line with depicting the deity in the form of a five-year-old child

    The Trust has asked the sculptors to present their models within the next 15 days and it would choose one to be installed in the Ram temple.

    Prominent among those who have pitched in for the task include Padma Vibhushan sculptor Sudarshan Sahoo and Vasudev Kamath of Odisha, KV Maniya of Karnataka and Shashtrayajya Deulkar of Pune. They all will send models of the statue measuring 8.5×12 inches.

    According to temple trust general secretary Champat Rai, stones with a hue of sky blue and grey combined from Maharashtra, Odisha and Karnataka are under consideration for preparing the idol of Ram Lalla.

    The decision to rope in renowned sculptors was taken by the temple trust after a two-day meeting of the Ram Mandir construction committee, headed by retired IAS officer Nripendra Mishra, that ended late on Thursday evening in Ayodhya.

    Champat Rai claimed that the stones would be finalised only after approving the model of the deity.

    As per the temple trust sources, the height of the statue will be around 8.5 feet to nine feet and it would be installed in the new temple around 35 ft away from the place provided for devotees to take the darshan in such a way that the sun rays could fall on the deity directly. The distance of 35 ft has been decided so as to make the devotees take the darshan of the deity from head to toe.

    Moreover, the new temple will have two idols of Lord Ram—movable and immovable(new idol) ones. The movable idol would be taken out of the temple on particular occasions but the new one would be installed permanently, said the trust sources.

    The Trust has also roped in top institutes of the country having expertise in architecture and building design to model the temple sanctum sanctorum in such a way that the sunlight falls on the forehead of Ram Lalla on every Ram Navami, the day of his birth at 12 noon. The temple trust has also set up a team of experts hailing from the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics, Pune, CSIR-CBRI of Roorkee and renowned temple architects for the purpose.

    The Trust aims at opening the sanctum sanctorum for public darshan on the day of Makarsankranti in 2024

    ALSO READ | Ram temple coming up on ‘land of hatred’: RJD

    LUCKNOW:  With the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya going on in full swing, Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust has roped in famous sculptors from across the country for making a model of the Ram Lalla idol to be installed in the under-construction temple in Ayodhya.

    The idol will be sculpted in line with depicting the deity in the form of a five-year-old child

    The Trust has asked the sculptors to present their models within the next 15 days and it would choose one to be installed in the Ram temple.

    Prominent among those who have pitched in for the task include Padma Vibhushan sculptor Sudarshan Sahoo and Vasudev Kamath of Odisha, KV Maniya of Karnataka and Shashtrayajya Deulkar of Pune. They all will send models of the statue measuring 8.5×12 inches.

    According to temple trust general secretary Champat Rai, stones with a hue of sky blue and grey combined from Maharashtra, Odisha and Karnataka are under consideration for preparing the idol of Ram Lalla.

    The decision to rope in renowned sculptors was taken by the temple trust after a two-day meeting of the Ram Mandir construction committee, headed by retired IAS officer Nripendra Mishra, that ended late on Thursday evening in Ayodhya.

    Champat Rai claimed that the stones would be finalised only after approving the model of the deity.

    As per the temple trust sources, the height of the statue will be around 8.5 feet to nine feet and it would be installed in the new temple around 35 ft away from the place provided for devotees to take the darshan in such a way that the sun rays could fall on the deity directly. The distance of 35 ft has been decided so as to make the devotees take the darshan of the deity from head to toe.

    Moreover, the new temple will have two idols of Lord Ram—movable and immovable(new idol) ones. The movable idol would be taken out of the temple on particular occasions but the new one would be installed permanently, said the trust sources.

    The Trust has also roped in top institutes of the country having expertise in architecture and building design to model the temple sanctum sanctorum in such a way that the sunlight falls on the forehead of Ram Lalla on every Ram Navami, the day of his birth at 12 noon. The temple trust has also set up a team of experts hailing from the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics, Pune, CSIR-CBRI of Roorkee and renowned temple architects for the purpose.

    The Trust aims at opening the sanctum sanctorum for public darshan on the day of Makarsankranti in 2024

    ALSO READ | Ram temple coming up on ‘land of hatred’: RJD

  • UP CM Yogi offers prayers at Ram temple, chairs meeting over development works

    By ANI

    AYODHYA: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday offered prayers at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya.

    Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also chaired a meeting with officials over the development works in Ram Janmabhoomi temple.

    Earlier on November 4, with a steady stream of devotees to Ayodhya amid the ongoing construction of the Ram temple, the Uttar Pradesh government approved three main routes to the temple site which will enable visitors to have ‘darshan’.

    Work on laying two of these routes is already underway, government officials said. One of these three routes, to be named Ram Path, will span 13 kilometres and connect Sahadatganj to Naya Ghat. While the road is to be laid at a cost of Rs 400 crore, the tendering process has been completed. A committee has also conducted a survey of the main route after it was approved by the government.

    The locals on the route, who have homes or run shops or other establishments, would be rehabilitated before work on constructing the main approach road to the Ram temple begins.

    The other route, to be called Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Path, will connect Birla Dharmashala to Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple via Sugreev fort. Work on laying this route is on in full swing. While the work was initially estimated to be completed by November, officials now say that work will go on till December.

    “We will have the route ready by December this year,” Navdeep Rinwa, commissioner, of Ayodhya Mandal.

    The third route will connect Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple to Singar Ghat via Hanumangarhi. Work on this route is underway at a fast pace, officials said, adding that most of the land losers on this route have already been awarded compensation.

    “After clearing some other areas, work will start. The route, once ready, will help draw more visitors to the temple. The Ram Janmabhoomi Path Marg will not only save the devotees time but also enable them to have darshan. The ongoing work is sustainable and there will be no need to run repairs at least for some time,” Kamala Prabhat Singh, an Ayodhya resident, said.

    AYODHYA: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday offered prayers at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya.

    Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also chaired a meeting with officials over the development works in Ram Janmabhoomi temple.

    Earlier on November 4, with a steady stream of devotees to Ayodhya amid the ongoing construction of the Ram temple, the Uttar Pradesh government approved three main routes to the temple site which will enable visitors to have ‘darshan’.

    Work on laying two of these routes is already underway, government officials said. One of these three routes, to be named Ram Path, will span 13 kilometres and connect Sahadatganj to Naya Ghat. While the road is to be laid at a cost of Rs 400 crore, the tendering process has been completed. A committee has also conducted a survey of the main route after it was approved by the government.

    The locals on the route, who have homes or run shops or other establishments, would be rehabilitated before work on constructing the main approach road to the Ram temple begins.

    The other route, to be called Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Path, will connect Birla Dharmashala to Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple via Sugreev fort. Work on laying this route is on in full swing. While the work was initially estimated to be completed by November, officials now say that work will go on till December.

    “We will have the route ready by December this year,” Navdeep Rinwa, commissioner, of Ayodhya Mandal.

    The third route will connect Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple to Singar Ghat via Hanumangarhi. Work on this route is underway at a fast pace, officials said, adding that most of the land losers on this route have already been awarded compensation.

    “After clearing some other areas, work will start. The route, once ready, will help draw more visitors to the temple. The Ram Janmabhoomi Path Marg will not only save the devotees time but also enable them to have darshan. The ongoing work is sustainable and there will be no need to run repairs at least for some time,” Kamala Prabhat Singh, an Ayodhya resident, said.

  • Ram temple to open to devotees in January 2024: Trust Member

    By PTI

    AYODHYA: The Ram temple here will be open to devotees in January 2024 after the installation of the idols of Ram Lalla, said a member of the trust set up to oversee the construction of the shrine.

    Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Khestra on Tuesday said 50 per cent of the construction work of the temple has been completed and the overall progress is satisfactory.

    “The temple will be opened to devotees in January 2024 after the installation of idols of Ram Lalla in the sanctum sanctorum of the shrine on the festival of Makar Sankranti,” said trust general secretary Champat Rai.

    He said the ground floor of the temple will be ready by December next year and around January 14, 2024, idols of Lord Ram will be installed.

    “An estimated Rs 1,800 crore will be spent on building the Ram temple,” Rai said, adding that space will be made for idols of prominent Hindu seers.A group of journalists were on Tuesday taken to the elevated place from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday, had inspected the construction work of the temple.

    The prime minister had performed the “Bhoomi pujan” for the construction of the temple on August 5, 2020. The Supreme Court verdict of November 9, 2019, had paved the way for the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

    According to the plan, temples of Valmiki, Kewat, Shabari, Jatayu, Sita, Vighneshwar (Ganesh) and Sheshavatar (Lakshman) will also be constructed within a 70-acre area in the vicinity of the Ram temple.

    A rectangular, two-storeyed ‘Parikrama’ road is also being constructed, enclosing a total of eight acres of land including the area of the temple and its courtyard. In its eastern part, there will be an entrance made of sandstone. White marble from the Makrana hills in Rajasthan will be used inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.

    Modi’s visit to Ayodhya on October 23 was the first after he laid the foundation stone two years back. After offering prayers to Ram Lalla at the makeshift temple, the prime minister had reviewed the progress of the construction work.

    The opening of the temple for devotees at the beginning of 2024 is seen as politically important too as the Lok Sabha elections are scheduled for later that year. The BJP has been highlighting the Ayodhya issue for a long and the opening of the temple for the devotees is expected to generate enthusiasm among Hindus.

    AYODHYA: The Ram temple here will be open to devotees in January 2024 after the installation of the idols of Ram Lalla, said a member of the trust set up to oversee the construction of the shrine.

    Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Khestra on Tuesday said 50 per cent of the construction work of the temple has been completed and the overall progress is satisfactory.

    “The temple will be opened to devotees in January 2024 after the installation of idols of Ram Lalla in the sanctum sanctorum of the shrine on the festival of Makar Sankranti,” said trust general secretary Champat Rai.

    He said the ground floor of the temple will be ready by December next year and around January 14, 2024, idols of Lord Ram will be installed.

    “An estimated Rs 1,800 crore will be spent on building the Ram temple,” Rai said, adding that space will be made for idols of prominent Hindu seers.
    A group of journalists were on Tuesday taken to the elevated place from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday, had inspected the construction work of the temple.

    The prime minister had performed the “Bhoomi pujan” for the construction of the temple on August 5, 2020. The Supreme Court verdict of November 9, 2019, had paved the way for the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

    According to the plan, temples of Valmiki, Kewat, Shabari, Jatayu, Sita, Vighneshwar (Ganesh) and Sheshavatar (Lakshman) will also be constructed within a 70-acre area in the vicinity of the Ram temple.

    A rectangular, two-storeyed ‘Parikrama’ road is also being constructed, enclosing a total of eight acres of land including the area of the temple and its courtyard. In its eastern part, there will be an entrance made of sandstone. White marble from the Makrana hills in Rajasthan will be used inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.

    Modi’s visit to Ayodhya on October 23 was the first after he laid the foundation stone two years back. After offering prayers to Ram Lalla at the makeshift temple, the prime minister had reviewed the progress of the construction work.

    The opening of the temple for devotees at the beginning of 2024 is seen as politically important too as the Lok Sabha elections are scheduled for later that year. The BJP has been highlighting the Ayodhya issue for a long and the opening of the temple for the devotees is expected to generate enthusiasm among Hindus.

  • PM Modi offers prayers to Ram Lalla in Ayodhya

    By PTI

    AYODHYA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday offered prayers to Ram Lalla at Ram Janmbhoomi here. This is his first visit to Ayodhya after a “bhoomi pujan” for the construction of a Ram temple on August 5, 2020.

    Immediately after reaching Ayodhya for the Deepotsav celebrations, the PM went to the makeshift Ram temple and offered prayers to Ram Lalla.

    Ram Lalla Temple is decorated with flowers. (Photo | ANI)He lit an earthen lamp there and performed an “aarti”.

    Temple chief priest Acharya Satyendra Das applied vermillion on his forehead.

    Modi was also briefed by officials on the construction going on for a grand Ram temple at the site.

    Earlier, the PM was welcomed by Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

    He will be attending the Deepotsav celebrations.

    Modi will witness a 3-D holographic projection mapping show at Ram ki Paidi on the banks of the Saryu, along with a grand musical laser show, the Prime Minister’s Office said.

    Around 6.30 pm, the prime minister will witness an “aarti” on the banks of the Saryu, which will be followed by the launch of the Deepotsav celebrations, a statement said.

    Ayodhya Divisional Commissioner Navdeep Rinwa had said over 15 lakh earthen lamps will be lit as part of the Deepotsav celebrations by more than 22,000 volunteers at Ram ki Paidi near the Saryu bank.

    The rest will be placed at important intersections and spots in the town.

    Five animated tableaux and 11 Ramlila tableaux showcasing dance forms from different states will also be presented during the Deepotsav.

    AYODHYA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday offered prayers to Ram Lalla at Ram Janmbhoomi here. This is his first visit to Ayodhya after a “bhoomi pujan” for the construction of a Ram temple on August 5, 2020.

    Immediately after reaching Ayodhya for the Deepotsav celebrations, the PM went to the makeshift Ram temple and offered prayers to Ram Lalla.

    Ram Lalla Temple is decorated with flowers. (Photo | ANI)He lit an earthen lamp there and performed an “aarti”.

    Temple chief priest Acharya Satyendra Das applied vermillion on his forehead.

    Modi was also briefed by officials on the construction going on for a grand Ram temple at the site.

    Earlier, the PM was welcomed by Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

    He will be attending the Deepotsav celebrations.

    Modi will witness a 3-D holographic projection mapping show at Ram ki Paidi on the banks of the Saryu, along with a grand musical laser show, the Prime Minister’s Office said.

    Around 6.30 pm, the prime minister will witness an “aarti” on the banks of the Saryu, which will be followed by the launch of the Deepotsav celebrations, a statement said.

    Ayodhya Divisional Commissioner Navdeep Rinwa had said over 15 lakh earthen lamps will be lit as part of the Deepotsav celebrations by more than 22,000 volunteers at Ram ki Paidi near the Saryu bank.

    The rest will be placed at important intersections and spots in the town.

    Five animated tableaux and 11 Ramlila tableaux showcasing dance forms from different states will also be presented during the Deepotsav.

  • Values inculcated by Lord Ram inspiration for ‘sabka saath, sabka vikas’: PM Modi in Ayodhya

    By PTI

    AYODHYA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi here on Sunday said the values inculcated by Lord Ram through his words, thoughts and rule are the inspiration for “sabka saath, sabka vikas”.

    These are also a basis for “sabka vishwas, sabka prayas”, said the prime minister who arrived here to attend the Deepotsav celebrations.

    Addressing a gathering at the Ram Katha park where a symbolic coronation of Lord Ram and Sita was performed, Modi said he got the opportunity of having the deity’s “darshan” due to his blessings.

    “I am happy that people of Ayodhya, entire UP and world are witnessing this event. As we are celebrating ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsava’, the determination like Lord Ram will take the country to new heights,” he said.

    The PM said Lord Ram’s ideals are a beacon of light for people aspiring for a developed India in next 25 years and give the “courage to achieve the most difficult goals”.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday offered prayers to Ram Lalla at Ram Janmbhoomi here.

    This is his first visit to Ayodhya after a “bhoomi pujan” for the construction of a Ram temple on August 5, 2020.

    Immediately after reaching Ayodhya for the Deepotsav celebrations, the PM went to the makeshift Ram temple and offered prayers to Ram Lalla.

    He lit an earthen lamp there and performed an “aarti”.

    Modi was also briefed by officials on the construction going on for a grand Ram temple at the site.

    Earlier, the PM was welcomed by Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

    AYODHYA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi here on Sunday said the values inculcated by Lord Ram through his words, thoughts and rule are the inspiration for “sabka saath, sabka vikas”.

    These are also a basis for “sabka vishwas, sabka prayas”, said the prime minister who arrived here to attend the Deepotsav celebrations.

    Addressing a gathering at the Ram Katha park where a symbolic coronation of Lord Ram and Sita was performed, Modi said he got the opportunity of having the deity’s “darshan” due to his blessings.

    “I am happy that people of Ayodhya, entire UP and world are witnessing this event. As we are celebrating ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsava’, the determination like Lord Ram will take the country to new heights,” he said.

    The PM said Lord Ram’s ideals are a beacon of light for people aspiring for a developed India in next 25 years and give the “courage to achieve the most difficult goals”.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday offered prayers to Ram Lalla at Ram Janmbhoomi here.

    This is his first visit to Ayodhya after a “bhoomi pujan” for the construction of a Ram temple on August 5, 2020.

    Immediately after reaching Ayodhya for the Deepotsav celebrations, the PM went to the makeshift Ram temple and offered prayers to Ram Lalla.

    He lit an earthen lamp there and performed an “aarti”.

    Modi was also briefed by officials on the construction going on for a grand Ram temple at the site.

    Earlier, the PM was welcomed by Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

  • Ram temple animates interest in tourism; foreign investors keen on developing theme parks, resorts in Ayodhya

    Express News Service

    LUCKNOW: The upcoming Ram temple in Ayodhya is giving a push to tourism opportunities in Ayodhya and adjoining districts drawing investors from across the globe to the temple town.

    A delegation of foreign investors representing 5-6  countries visited the temple town of Ayodhya to explore business opportunities. Accompanied by the officials of the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, the delegation was shown various lands in and around Ayodhya for different projects.

    The 12-member delegation also visited the premises of Ram Janmabhoomi and had the darshan of Lord Ram along the Lord Hanuman at Hanuman Garhi. The delegation, led by Mali Faulkner, CEO, Fancan Phoenix Group, USA, comprised Takita Yoshinori of Japan, Hilen-Jung-Hee from Republic of Korea, Francis Oliver and Cumber Bach of Guyana, Alex Andre of Vietnam, Shandal Patrick from California, Jessica Vulcan of Peru, Maria Angel Ladora of Ecuador.

    The delegation was shown various lands along the Lucknow Gorakhpur Highway which crosses Ayodhya. They were shown the land in adjoining areas as well. UP Tourism Department, Deputy Director, Rajendra Prasad said that there was a possibility of signing an MoU on different projects in the Investors Summit proposed to be organised in Lucknow in January next year.

    ALSO READ | Plinth of Ayodhya Ram temple to be completed next month

    Rajendra Prasad claimed that there was a potential for investment to the tune of US$ 2 billion in this sector. For this, foreign investors were being made to visit Ayodhya and other cities of the state, he stated.

    As per the tourism department officials, many members of the foreign delegation showed interest in projects related to theme parks, light shows, bringing out resorts, wellness centres, renewable energy, skill development centres, film-media besides FMCG, etc.

    The delegation was given an overview of 30-acre land acquired by the state tourism department near Korean monument located on the banks of river Saryu. The delegation also visited 80-acre land acquired earlier for the installation of world’s tallest 252-ft statue of Lord Rama at Manjha Barhatha area. In the same series, the green field township proposed by the Housing Development Council in Shahnawazpur was also shown to the foreign investors.

    LUCKNOW: The upcoming Ram temple in Ayodhya is giving a push to tourism opportunities in Ayodhya and adjoining districts drawing investors from across the globe to the temple town.

    A delegation of foreign investors representing 5-6  countries visited the temple town of Ayodhya to explore business opportunities. Accompanied by the officials of the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, the delegation was shown various lands in and around Ayodhya for different projects.

    The 12-member delegation also visited the premises of Ram Janmabhoomi and had the darshan of Lord Ram along the Lord Hanuman at Hanuman Garhi. The delegation, led by Mali Faulkner, CEO, Fancan Phoenix Group, USA, comprised Takita Yoshinori of Japan, Hilen-Jung-Hee from Republic of Korea, Francis Oliver and Cumber Bach of Guyana, Alex Andre of Vietnam, Shandal Patrick from California, Jessica Vulcan of Peru, Maria Angel Ladora of Ecuador.

    The delegation was shown various lands along the Lucknow Gorakhpur Highway which crosses Ayodhya. They were shown the land in adjoining areas as well. UP Tourism Department, Deputy Director, Rajendra Prasad said that there was a possibility of signing an MoU on different projects in the Investors Summit proposed to be organised in Lucknow in January next year.

    ALSO READ | Plinth of Ayodhya Ram temple to be completed next month

    Rajendra Prasad claimed that there was a potential for investment to the tune of US$ 2 billion in this sector. For this, foreign investors were being made to visit Ayodhya and other cities of the state, he stated.

    As per the tourism department officials, many members of the foreign delegation showed interest in projects related to theme parks, light shows, bringing out resorts, wellness centres, renewable energy, skill development centres, film-media besides FMCG, etc.

    The delegation was given an overview of 30-acre land acquired by the state tourism department near Korean monument located on the banks of river Saryu. The delegation also visited 80-acre land acquired earlier for the installation of world’s tallest 252-ft statue of Lord Rama at Manjha Barhatha area. In the same series, the green field township proposed by the Housing Development Council in Shahnawazpur was also shown to the foreign investors.