Ram Mandir: In a moment of anticipation, the first visuals of the 51-inch idol of Ram Lalla, installed inside the ‘Grabh Grah’ of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, have emerged. Crafted by Mysuru-based artist Arun Yogiraj, the idol was covered with a veil during the unveiling ceremony held on Thursday afternoon.
First pic of Prabhu Ram in Ayodhya#PranPratishthaRamMandir pic.twitter.com/i6AobEm396
— Abhishek Mehrotra (@abhishek137) January 18, 2024
Idol Description and Weight
The black stone idol depicts a five-year-old child standing on a lotus, also sculpted from the same stone, weighing between 150 kg to 200 kg. Notably, the current Ram Lalla idol, worshipped for the past 70 years, will find its place alongside the new idol in the sanctum sanctorum of the new temple.
Read More: Central Govt Orders Nationwide Half Day On Ram Mandir Consecration Day
Ram Mandir – Sacred Ceremonies and Participation
According to reports from the news agency ANI, Vedic Brahmins and revered Acharyas led worship ceremonies within the sacred precincts of the Sri Ram Temple. Members of the Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra were actively involved in the prayers, further enriching the spiritual atmosphere.
Ayodhya, UP | Glimpse of the idol of Lord Ram inside the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
(Source: Sharad Sharma, media in-charge of Vishwa Hindu Parishad) pic.twitter.com/kZ6VeuYvSt
— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) January 18, 2024
Placement of Ram Lalla Idol and Rituals
Arun Dixit, a priest associated with the consecration ceremony, informed PTI that the placement of the Ram Lalla idol took place amid the chanting of prayers on Thursday afternoon. Anil Mishra, a member of the trust, performed the ‘pradhan sankalp’ with the intention of invoking blessings for the welfare of all, the nation, humanity, and those involved in the construction.
Preparations for Pran Pratishtha Ceremony
As the Pran Pratishtha ceremony on January 22 approaches, preparations are in full swing. Thousands of dignitaries and people from all sections of society are expected to attend, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The auspicious ceremony will adhere to scriptural protocols and is scheduled in the ‘Abhijeet Muhurta’ in the afternoon.
Ram Mandir – Gathering of Saints and Dignitaries
Over 400 saints are expected to converge in Ayodhya on January 22 for the consecration of Lord Ram, with various renowned personalities from across the country in attendance. The event holds immense significance as it marks the divine presence of Lord Ram Lala, creating a momentous occasion for all witnesses.
Ram Mandir – Historical and Cultural Significance of Ayodhya
Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, resonates with profound spiritual, historical, and cultural significance for the people of India. The forthcoming consecration ceremony adds a new chapter to the city’s rich heritage, symbolizing a milestone in the cultural tapestry of the nation.
