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Tag: Consecration Ceremony

  • Ayodhya Ram Mandir Receives Rs. 25 Crore in Donations Post

    Ayodhya Ram Mandir Receives Rs. 25 Crore in Donations Post

    In the wake of the consecration ceremony of the statue of Ram Lalla at Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir on January 22nd, the temple has witnessed a remarkable surge in donations. Ram temple trust official, Prakash Gupta, revealed that a staggering Rs. 25 crore worth of donations poured in within just a month after the successful completion of the ceremony. This influx of contributions highlights the profound devotion and unwavering support of Ram devotees towards the construction and upkeep of the sacred temple.

     

    To efficiently manage the substantial inflow of donations worth Rs. 25 crore, the State Bank of India (SBI) has installed four state-of-the-art automatic counting machines at the temple premises. These high-tech machines are equipped to handle various forms of donations, including cash, cheques, drafts, and even precious items like gold and silver ornaments. Gupta emphasized that while the trust is aware of physical donations, they may not have complete visibility of online transactions directly deposited into the trust’s bank accounts.

     

    Remarkably, devotees’ devotion to Ram Lalla transcends conventional forms of offerings. Despite knowing that certain items like gold and silver ornaments may not be utilized within the temple premises, devotees generously donate these precious materials as a symbol of their unwavering faith and reverence. Gupta highlighted the significance of these offerings, stating that despite their inability to use such items in the temple, the trust gratefully accepts them in recognition of the devotees’ deep-seated devotion.

     

    Since January 23rd, over 60 lakh devotees have visited Ayodhya to seek darshan of Ram Lalla, underscoring the immense significance and reverence attached to this sacred site. With the approach of Ram Navami celebrations, the Ram Mandir Trust anticipates a further surge in donations as much as Rs. 25 crore, as an estimated 50 lakh devotees are expected to converge in Ayodhya during this auspicious occasion. To streamline the donation process and ensure efficiency, the trust has set up a dozen computerized counters for issuing receipts, along with additional donation boxes placed at the temple premises.

     

    In anticipation of the influx of donations, particularly in the form of gold, silver, and other precious materials, the Ram Mandir Trust has taken proactive measures to ensure proper management and utilization of these offerings. Anil Mishra, trustee of the Ram temple trust, revealed that they have decided to hand over all gold, silver, and precious materials received as gifts to Ram Lalla to the Government of India for melting and maintenance purposes. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between the trust and the SBI, outlining the bank’s role in the collection and deposition of donations.

     

    Under the MoU, the State Bank of India assumes full responsibility for the collection and deposition of all contributions, ensuring transparency and accountability in the process. Mishra further elaborated that the SBI has mobilized its resources, including staff augmentation, to facilitate the seamless tallying and processing of cash donations. These operations are conducted twice daily across two shifts, ensuring that every donation is meticulously accounted for and deposited into the bank.

     

    Overall, the overwhelming response to the consecration ceremony and the subsequent surge in donations exemplify the deep-rooted reverence and devotion of devotees towards the construction and maintenance of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir. With meticulous planning and collaboration with banking institutions like the SBI, the Ram Mandir Trust aims to ensure that every donation is utilized judiciously towards the fulfillment of this sacred endeavor.

  • Turnout at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya

    Turnout at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya

    The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya witnessed an overwhelming turnout on Tuesday as lakhs of devotees flocked to offer prayers, creating a challenge for security personnel to maintain order. The surge in worshippers led to some breaking through police lines, leaving authorities struggling to manage the crowd. By Tuesday evening, an estimated 2.5 to 3 lakh people had already offered their prayers, with a similar number still waiting in line.

     

    The grand opening to the public followed the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony held on January 22, which marked the consecration of the new Ram Lalla idol. Devotees started gathering at the temple gates from 3 am, and the premises are being closely monitored by more than 8,000 security personnel.

     

    Lucknow Zone ADG Piyush Mordia addressed the media, reassuring that the darshan (viewing) was proceeding as usual but due to the large numbers, it was taking time. He urged people to remain patient, emphasizing that those standing ahead in the queue would get the chance to have darshan first. The entry and exit gates were clearly defined to manage the flow of devotees.

     

    The scenes at the temple complex were marked by thousands of devotees eagerly waiting at the gates since the early hours of the morning. Carrying flags bearing the visages of Lord Ram and chanting “Jai Shri Ram,” the devotees exhibited remarkable patience despite the biting cold. The security personnel faced challenges as devotees pushed their way towards the temple, and at least one individual fainted in the commotion.

     

    The consecration ceremony on January 22, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marked a historic moment with the installation of the new Ram Lalla idol. PM Modi called for building the foundation of a “strong, capable, and divine” India for the next 1,000 years. The temple’s doors were officially opened to the general public on Tuesday, leading to an outpouring of devotees who had camped in Ayodhya since before the consecration ceremony.

     

    The heavy turnout included individuals who had embarked on long and arduous journeys to reach Ayodhya, symbolizing their devotion to Lord Ram. Despite the challenges faced by the security personnel in managing the crowd, devotees expressed their joy and fulfillment at being part of this historic event.

     

    One devotee, Manish Verma from Punjab, expressed his delight, stating, “Felt so delighted, my life’s aim has been fulfilled. Our ancestors struggled for this and it has been brought to fruition. The arrangement should continue like this, and the name of Lord Ram should reign for ages.”

     

    The scenes outside the temple also featured individuals who had traveled significant distances, such as Nitish Kumar from Bihar’s Madhepura district, who cycled more than 600 kilometers to reach Ayodhya. The dedication of these devotees reflected the profound significance they attached to the event.

     

    The opening of the Ram Temple to the public witnessed devotees from various parts of the country, each with their unique stories of devotion and determination. The temple, built in the traditional Nagara style, stands as a testament to the culmination of a decades-long movement for the construction of the grand temple.

     

    As the devotees chanted “Jai Shri Ram” and walked towards the temple complex, the atmosphere inside the main temple resonated with the same chants. The magnificent temple complex, adorned with flowers and lights, provided a spiritual haven for those seeking the blessings of Lord Ram.

     

    The 96th annual Academy Awards will be held on March 10 at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles. Popular talk show host Jimmy Kimmel will return to host the ceremony for the second consecutive year. Blockbusters have historically helped fueled Oscar ratings, and producers may be hoping for a Babenheimer-led boost to their TV ratings. However, recent indicators suggest limited success. Last week, the Emmy Awards were watched by just 4.3 million, the lowest number ever, despite heightened expectations around box-office blockbusters like Barbie and Oppenheimer.

  • Ceremony: Grand Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pran Pratistha

    Ceremony: Grand Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pran Pratistha

    As the much-awaited Pran Pratistha ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya approaches, the anticipation among people has reached a crescendo. Scheduled for January 22, the ceremony is a pivotal moment in the construction of the Ram Mandir, and preparations are in full swing to ensure a grand and auspicious event.

     

    The 51-inch tall idol of ‘Ram Lalla,’ intricately carved by Mysuru-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj, depicts Lord Ram as a five-year-old child standing on a lotus. The meticulous craftsmanship reflects the reverence attached to the sacred idol, symbolizing the embodiment of divinity. Inside pictures of the Ram Mandir have been shared by the Temple Trust, offering glimpses of the iconic structure.

     

    The Pran Pratistha ceremony holds paramount significance, marking the consecration of the idol with elaborate rituals. The ceremony is expected to take place between 12:15 and 12:45 pm, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will perform the rituals to mark this momentous occasion. A team of priests, led by Lakshmikant Dixit, will oversee the main rituals, ensuring that the consecration is carried out with utmost precision and adherence to traditions.

     

    The grandeur of the event is further elevated with the presence of several celebrities and noted personalities who have been invited to witness and participate in the ceremony. The combination of religious fervor and cultural significance adds to the allure of the Pran Pratistha ceremony, making it a historic and memorable event for millions of devotees.

     

    AIIMS Delhi, RML Hospitals, and Medical Services: All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in New Delhi have announced a half-day closure of offices and institutions until 2:30 pm on the day of the ceremony. Critical clinical services will continue to operate during this period, ensuring that healthcare services are not disrupted. OPD services in Lady Hardinge Medical College will remain open from 8:00 am to 10:00 am.

     

    Banks and Financial Institutions: Public sector banks (PSBs), insurance companies, financial institutions, and regional rural banks will observe a half-day off until 2:30 pm on January 22. This decision is in line with an order issued by the Ministry of Finance, facilitating the participation of banking personnel in the consecration ceremony.

     

    Educational Institutions: Several states, including Tripura, Assam, Rajasthan, Odisha, and Gujarat, have declared a half-day off for educational institutions, with closures until 2:30 pm. Additionally, states such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, and Puducherry have declared a full-day holiday in educational institutes.

     

    Government Offices: The central government has announced a half-day closure for all central government offices, Central Institutions, and Central Industrial Establishments across the country. Several states, including Tripura, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, Odisha, Assam, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, and Uttarakhand, have followed suit with a half-day closure. States like Goa, Maharashtra, Chandigarh, and Puducherry have declared a full day public holiday.

     

    Stock Market: The stock market will remain closed on January 22. Trading across equities, debt, and money markets will be halted due to a public holiday in Maharashtra.

     

    The preparations and impact of the Pran Pratistha ceremony extend beyond religious and cultural domains to influence various aspects of public life. The convergence of spiritual significance and public participation underscores the collective reverence for the Ram Mandir. As millions eagerly await the ceremony, the arrangements made by authorities ensure a seamless and secure environment for the historic event.

  • Rituals and Preparations for the Historic Event

    Rituals and Preparations for the Historic Event

    As the countdown to the Ayodhya Ram Temple’s ‘Pran Pratistha’ ceremony continues, a series of rituals and preparations are unfolding in the sacred city. With the consecration ceremony scheduled for January 22, each day leading up to the historic event is marked by traditional rituals and significant moments.

     

    According to reports, ‘Ganesh Pujan’ and ‘Varun Pujan’ are set to take place on January 18 as part of the elaborate rituals being performed in the run-up to the consecration ceremony. These rituals hold great significance in the Hindu tradition and are integral to the consecration process.

     

    On Wednesday night, the idol of Ram Lalla was brought inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple, marking a crucial step in the preparations. However, it was clarified that the idol is not yet ‘virajmaan’ (installed) due to a technical issue, which engineers are set to address.

     

    The ongoing rituals, which commenced on Tuesday, are expected to continue until January 21. Priest Arun Dixit shared insights into the upcoming ceremonies, stating, “The idol of Ram Lalla has been kept inside the sanctum sanctorum, but it is not ‘virajmaan’ yet. There is a technical issue, and engineers will be looking into it.”

     

    As part of the ‘Jaladhivas’ ritual, the idol will be cleansed with water on the designated day, setting the stage for the consecration ceremony. ‘Ganesh Pujan’ and ‘Varun Pujan’ will add spiritual depth to the proceedings, conducted by a team of 121 priests assigned specific puja tasks.

     

    A ‘Vastu Puja’ outside the sanctum sanctorum is also planned on the temple premises, emphasizing the importance of harmonizing the temple’s architecture with Vastu principles.

     

    The ‘Pran Pratistha’ ceremony itself is scheduled to begin at 12.20 pm on January 22 and is expected to conclude by 1 pm. This central event involves the essential rituals required for the consecration of the idol of Ram Lalla, symbolizing the divine presence in the sanctum sanctorum.

     

    To facilitate the influx of devotees, officials have announced the availability of battery-operated carts, also known as e-carts or golf carts. These carts will offer free rides to the elderly, persons with disabilities, and pregnant women, ensuring accessibility for all. The fare for other devotees is yet to be announced.

     

    Additionally, recognizing the significance of the consecration ceremony, the Personnel Ministry has issued an order for all central government offices across the country to observe a half-day on January 22. The order states that the closure will be until 2.30 pm, allowing employees to participate in the celebrations.

     

    Union Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh highlighted that the decision to observe a half-day closure is in response to overwhelming public sentiments across the country. He stated, “There was a huge public demand across the country regarding this. The decision on half-day closure of central government offices on January 22 has been taken in view of overwhelming public sentiments.”

     

    As the rituals unfold and preparations intensify, the Ayodhya Ram Temple’s consecration ceremony stands as a historic moment, uniting millions in celebration and reverence. The meticulous observance of traditional customs and the broad participation of devotees underscore the deep cultural and spiritual significance attached to this event.

  • Ayodhya Mandir: Arun Yogiraj’s Idol to Grace Garbha Griha

    Ayodhya Mandir: Arun Yogiraj’s Idol to Grace Garbha Griha

    The Ram Mandir Trust announced that the idol of Ram Lalla, sculpted by Arun Yogiraj from Mysuru, will be placed in the ‘Garbha Griha’ of the temple on January 18. This idol, weighing approximately 150-200 kg, will be consecrated in the sanctum sanctorum of the new Ram temple. The current idol of Ram Lalla will also be retained in the temple.

     

    The ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony is a crucial religious event, marking the consecration of the Ram Mandir. It involves meticulous rituals and has been scheduled for January 22 at 12:20 PM. The religious ceremonies will commence on January 16 and continue until January 21. During this period, the temple will be closed for darshan on January 20 and 21.

     

    Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid of Varanasi has determined the auspicious timing for the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony, and 121 Acharyas will be involved in conducting the rituals. The proceedings will be overseen by Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid, with Luckshmikant Dixit of Kashi serving as the principal Acharya.

     

    Arun Yogiraj, the sculptor of the chosen idol, comes from a family of renowned sculptors in Mysore. His work includes notable idols like the one of Adi Shankaracharya in Kedarnath and the statue of Subhash Chandra Bose near India Gate in New Delhi. Arun Yogiraj emphasized the divinity and childlike features of the idol, expressing his happiness with the selection.

     

    The consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir has garnered widespread attention, and the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries highlights the cultural and religious significance of the occasion. The meticulous planning of rituals, the selection of the idol, and the overall preparations are conducted with great care to ensure the sanctity and success of the event.

     

    As the date approaches, devotees from across the country are expected to participate in the ceremonies and witness the historic moment of consecration at the Ram Mandir. The completion of the temple holds deep religious and cultural importance for millions of people, and the consecration marks a significant milestone in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.

  • Congress Leaders Yet to Confirm Attendance at Ram Temple

    Congress Leaders Yet to Confirm Attendance at Ram Temple

    As the date for the grand consecration at Ayodhya’s Ram Temple approaches, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has asserted that neither he nor the Chief Minister has received an invite for the ceremony on January 22. Adding to speculations about the Congress party’s participation, Shivakumar mentioned that the party will make the final decision.

     

    “I have not been invited. Neither our CM nor I have been invited. I saw that our Congress president (Mallikarjun Kharge) has been invited, but the party will take a call,” said Mr. Shivakumar.

     

    Despite projecting himself as a ‘Ram bhakt’ (devotee), Shivakumar emphasized that one’s connection with faith is personal, and there is no need to politicize it.

     

    “I’m a Hindu; I’m a Ram bhakt; I’m a Hanuman bhakt. We all pray from here. We have it within ourselves, in our hearts. There is nothing to politicize here,” stated the Congress leader.

     

    Sources indicate that Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge have received invitations for the consecration. However, the party has not yet confirmed their attendance.

     

    Bihar Chief Minister and Janata Dal-Secular President Nitish Kumar, along with CPI (M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury, are among other opposition leaders who have received invitations. The CPI (M) has already declined the invitation, citing it as a “politicization of religion.” The attendance of Nitish Kumar remains unconfirmed.

     

    The grand consecration at Ayodhya’s Ram Temple holds immense significance, and the presence or absence of opposition leaders at the event has become a topic of discussion. The Ram Temple has been a longstanding issue in Indian politics, and its construction has been a key promise of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

     

    The Congress party’s decision to attend or abstain from the event may be influenced by various factors, including political considerations and the party’s stance on secularism. While individual leaders, like Shivakumar, may express personal religious affiliations, the party’s official stand is crucial in the context of India’s diverse and pluralistic society.

     

    As the party deliberates on the invitation, the Ram Temple consecration continues to be a focal point in the broader narrative of religious identity and politics in India. The presence of political leaders from different parties at the event reflects the complex interplay of religion and politics in the country.

     

    While Shivakumar’s acknowledgment of being a devotee emphasizes the personal aspect of faith, the larger question remains about the role of political leaders in religious events. The Ram Temple consecration, with its historical and cultural significance, has become a symbol of religious unity for some and a matter of contention for others.

     

    As the ceremony approaches, the political landscape will likely witness further developments, with attention focused on the participation or non-participation of key leaders. The Congress party’s decision will be closely watched, as it navigates the delicate balance between secularism and respecting diverse religious sentiments in the Indian political context.

  • Ayodhya Ram Temple Construction Nearing Completion

    Ayodhya Ram Temple Construction Nearing Completion

    The much-anticipated Ayodhya Ram Temple, a monumental three-storeyed structure, is swiftly progressing towards its completion, with expectations set for a finish by December 2024. Nripendra Misra, the chairperson of the temple construction committee, shared optimistic insights into the ongoing construction efforts and the meticulous adherence to the principles of Lord Ram.

     

    In a recent interview, Misra conveyed confidence in meeting the construction deadline, revealing that the ground floor is already completed, and the first and second floors are slated for finalization by December 2024. This remarkable progress aligns with the impending consecration ceremony scheduled for January 22, where dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, are expected to mark the significant occasion.

     

    The sprawling temple complex, overseen by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, is a testament to the collective dedication of those involved in the project. Over 7,000 individuals have been extended invitations to partake in the consecration ceremony, underscoring the cultural and religious significance of the Ayodhya Ram Temple.

     

    Misra underscored the commitment to upholding the values and principles, referred to as “maryada,” that Lord Ram exemplifies while executing the construction work. Challenges, he noted, arise daily, but solutions seem to organically manifest, showcasing the resilience and determination of the construction team.

     

    Maintaining transparency and adherence to rules remain paramount for the temple construction committee, guided by Champat Rai, the trust’s general secretary. Misra affirmed the trust’s commitment to complying with financial regulations and stated, “Whatever tax is to be submitted to the government, (has to) be done. So, we all (are) abiding by that ‘maryada.’”

     

    Anticipating the temple’s longevity for at least 1,000 years, Misra emphasized the heightened responsibilities to ensure the construction’s quality and durability, aiming to satisfy the millions of devotees who await the completion of this sacred structure.

     

    Addressing the choice of the idol for the temple, Misra disclosed that the decision would be shared by Champat Rai. Currently, three skilled sculptors are meticulously crafting idols, and the trust members have recently conducted an emergency meeting to grade the statues on a scale. Rai is expected to announce the final decision at an opportune moment, clarifying that one of the three statues will find its place in the temple’s sanctum sanctorum.

     

    Looking ahead to the post-construction period, Misra estimated a significant daily footfall of at least 75,000 to one lakh people within the initial 4-5 months after the temple opens to the public. This projection underlines the widespread anticipation and reverence surrounding the Ayodhya Ram Temple.

     

    The construction of the Ram temple gained momentum following a historic Supreme Court verdict in 2019, paving the way for its construction by a trust at the disputed site in Ayodhya. The ruling also directed the allocation of an alternative five-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for the construction of a new mosque in Ayodhya. As the project inches closer to its completion, the Ayodhya Ram Temple stands as a symbol of cultural and religious significance, fulfilling the aspirations of millions across the nation.

  • Ayodhya Temple’s Ground Floor Construction to Finish by December

    Ayodhya Temple’s Ground Floor Construction to Finish by December

    In a significant development, Nripendra Mishra, the Chairperson of the Ram Temple Construction Committee, has shared updates on the progress of the Ayodhya Ram Temple’s construction. According to a report by news agency PTI, Mishra stated that the construction of the ground floor of the three-storey temple is on track to be completed by the end of December. Furthermore, the much-anticipated consecration ceremony, known as “pran pratishtha,” is scheduled to take place on January 22.

     

    One of the most noteworthy aspects of this announcement is the expected participation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an event related to the “pran pratishtha” ceremony. Mishra revealed that the Prime Minister is likely to be part of the event, which is set to occur sometime between January 20 and 24. However, the final date for the Prime Minister’s participation is yet to be officially communicated by the Prime Minister’s Office.

     

    “It was planned to complete the construction of the ground floor of the temple by December 2023, and this work will definitely be completed within the stipulated time,” Mishra assured, underlining the commitment to meeting the construction timeline.

     

    Additionally, the report highlighted an intriguing development regarding the temple’s design. The construction team is currently working on an apparatus that will be installed on the temple’s “shikhar” (spire). This apparatus has a unique purpose: it will align sun rays to fall momentarily on the forehead of the deity in the sanctum sanctorum during the celebration of Ram Navami every year. The design and creation of this innovative apparatus are being overseen by scientists in Bengaluru.

     

    As previously stated, the Ram Temple is expected to be opened for devotees on January 24 following the consecration of the Ram Lalla idol, a prediction made by Mishra in June.

     

    The path to the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya was cleared in 2019 following a historic judgement by the Supreme Court. The Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, responsible for the temple’s construction, will formally invite Prime Minister Narendra Modi to participate in the consecration ceremony, during which the Ram Lalla idol will be installed in the temple’s sanctum sanctorum.

     

    The process of consecration for Ram Lalla is likely to commence after Makar Sankranti on January 14, and it will involve a 10-day ritual known as “pran pratishtha.”

     

    Chairperson Nripendra Mishra also emphasized the temple’s longevity, expressing a vision that its structure will endure for at least 1,000 years. The Ram Temple project has been a significant cultural and religious undertaking in India, symbolizing the fulfillment of a long-cherished dream for many devotees.

     

    This announcement marks a major milestone in the construction of the Ayodhya Ram Temple and the realization of the aspirations of countless devotees who have been eagerly awaiting its completion.