Historic Celebration in Ayodhya as Lord Ram Returns After 500 Years
- Posted on January 22, 2024
- Archaeology/History
- By Arijit Dutta
- 239 Views
The grand inauguration of Ayodhya's Ram Temple, fulfilling the aspirations of millions, witnessed a historic ceremony led by Prime Minister Modi. The event, marked by elaborate preparations in Ayodhya and global celebrations, symbolizes the cultural and religious significance of the momentous occasion.
In
a historic moment, India welcomed the grand
inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya after 500 years, fulfilling the
fervent wishes of millions of Hindus. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, adorned in
traditional attire, led the opening ceremony in the presence of eminent
personalities from various walks of life.
The
temple, currently under construction, stands as a dedication to Lord Ram, with
a 1.3-meter stone sculpture installed in its inner sanctum. The ceremony
witnessed Hindu priests chanting hymns, a conch being blown, and Modi placing a
lotus flower before the adorned idol of Lord Ram, creating a religious
spectacle broadcasted on news channels.
Over
7,500 people, including industrialists, politicians, and movie stars, gathered
to witness the ritual on a giant screen outside the temple. Ayodhya underwent a
significant transformation ahead of the inauguration, with a revamped
pilgrimage route, a new airport, and a railway station, reflecting the grandeur
of the occasion.
Jubilant
devotees from across India flocked to Ayodhya, dancing to religious tunes on
flower-bedecked roads. The city, adorned with cut-outs of Lord Ram and
billboards of Modi, saw heightened security measures, including 20,000
personnel and over 10,000 security cameras.
Built
at an estimated cost of $217 million, the temple spans nearly 3 hectares and
sits atop the remains of the 16th-century Babri Mosque. The Supreme Court's
resolution in 2019 granted the site to Hindus, ending a longstanding religious
dispute.
The inauguration became a nationwide event, with the Indian government telecasting it across the country. Even international celebrations unfolded, with the Indian diaspora in the United States illuminating Times Square and organizing events in the UK, Australia, Nepal, and Taiwan.
In
the UK, Hindu temples prepared for the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony, while
Australia witnessed car rallies and celebrations. Nepal's Janakpurdham echoed
with hymns, and in Taiwan, the Indian Association arranged a live stream for
remote participation.
The joyous occasion prompted widespread festivities, from door-to-door distribution of religious flags in India to cultural showcases in global locations. The magnitude of the celebrations reinforced the cultural and religious significance of the Ram Temple inauguration.