Historic Consecration of Ayodhya Ram Temple Underway as PM Modi Leads Ceremony

Ayodhya: A moment long-awaited by millions is unfolding as the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya is set to take place in the next few hours. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, present in Ayodhya, is leading the ‘pran pratistha’ ceremony, marking a significant moment in Indian history.

The consecration ceremony is resonating across the nation, with Indians worldwide participating in special prayers and various programs at local temples. The festivities evoke a sense of Diwali, symbolizing Lord Ram’s triumphant return after the battle with Ravan, with temples and houses adorned with festive lighting.

Distinguished personalities, including megastars Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth, actor couples Vicky Kaushal-Katrina Kaif and Ranbir Kapoor-Alia Bhatt, industrialists Sunil Bharti Mittal and Anil Ambani, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, and ace shuttler Saina Nehwal, have converged on Ayodhya to witness the historic event.

Prime Minister Modi, who meticulously observed a series of strict 11-day religious rituals in preparation for the consecration, will address the gathering during the ceremony. He is also scheduled to interact with laborers involved in the temple’s construction and visit Kuber Tila, where the ancient temple of Lord Shiv has been restored.

The Ram temple, measuring 380×250 feet, is being constructed in the traditional north-Indian Nagara style, boasting 392 pillars, 44 doors, and intricately carved walls depicting gods and goddesses. The sanctum sanctorum houses the idol of five-year-old Lord Ram. Adjacent to the temple, Kuber Tila stands in the southwestern part of the complex, with a nearby well (Sita koop) believed to date back to ancient times.

Political leaders from the BJP and its ideological mentor, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, have been present in Ayodhya for weeks. The temple town, now equipped with an international airport and a renovated railway station, is teeming with over 11,000 visitors. The recent surge in infrastructure, hotels, guest houses, and homestays marks a long-awaited economic boom for the region.

While the consecration has drawn widespread attention and enthusiasm, most Opposition parties, including the Congress, Left, Trinamool Congress, and Samajwadi Party, have chosen to stay away, accusing the BJP of exploiting religious sentiments for political gains in an election year. In response, the BJP has criticized those declining the invitation, labeling them anti-Hindu and asserting that they will face repercussions from the people in the upcoming elections.