Ayodhya: Ram Lalla's idol unveiled at Ram Janmabhoomi Temple

The sacred city of Ayodhya witnessed a momentous event as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

This significant ceremony, known as the 'Pran Pratishtha', took place on January 22nd, 2024, and was graced by the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The idol, a 51-inch representation of Lord Ram as a child, was sculpted by Mysuru-based artist Arun Yogiraj. It was placed in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple, marking a pivotal moment in the temple's history.

The 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony is a deeply spiritual ritual that symbolizes the infusion of life into the deity's idol. The new idol was necessitated because the original Ram Lalla idol, which is only five to six inches in height, could not be seen from a distance of 25 to 30 feet. The original idol will now be positioned in front of the new one, allowing devotees to pay their respects to both representations of Lord Ram.

The installation of the idol was preceded by a series of rituals that began seven days prior to the ceremony. The temple, which stands on a site of great historical and religious significance believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram, has been constructed in the traditional Nagara style of architecture. The construction of the temple is overseen by a trust created by the central government following a Supreme Court order.

The unveiling of the idol attracted numerous dignitaries, celebrities, and spiritual leaders. Among the attendees were megastars Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth, actors Vicky Kaushal-Katrina Kaif and Ranbir Kapoor-Alia Bhatt, industrialists like Sunil Bharti Mittal and Anil Ambani, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, and ace shuttler Saina Nehwal. The event was not just a religious occasion but also a cultural confluence, reflecting the unity and diversity of India.

The temple is expected to open its doors to the public the day after the consecration ceremony, allowing pilgrims and visitors from around the world to witness the grandeur of the Ram Lalla idol and offer their prayers. This event marks a culmination of years of anticipation and devotion, symbolizing the victory of faith and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Also read: PM Modi to participate Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha during auspicious 84-second muhurat