The grand Ram temple in Ayodhya opened its doors to the public on Tuesday, a day after the ceremonial Pran Pratistha of Ram Lalla that witnessed the presence of distinguished guests from across India. Devotees, both locals and visitors from other states, thronged Ayodhya, eager to witness the historic event.
Large crowds gathered near the main gateway along the Ram Path leading to the temple complex late on Monday, seeking entry to the premises. The temple, which witnessed a significant rush of devotees, had enhanced security measures in place.
On Monday, the police informed the gathering near the ceremonial gateway, adorned for the consecration ceremony, that the temple would be open to the public from Tuesday. Devotees from various parts of the country arrived early on Tuesday, some even breaking through the security at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple to have ‘Darshan’ of Ram Lalla.
A devotee from Odisha, who traveled 1224 kilometers on a bike, expressed his eagerness to have darshan of Lord Ram Lalla. He shared his journey, stating, “When I was asked on my way where I was going, I said that I was going to have darshan of Lord Ram at the temple which was not built for over 500 years.”
Devotees were seen taking a dip in the cold waters of the Saryu River by the temple before heading for darshan. Some carried offerings like rice for Lord Ram Lalla. Despite the intense cold weather, the devotees expressed their joy at being part of this significant event.
An astrologer who had predicted the construction of the grand Ram temple after October 2019 was among the devotees eagerly waiting for darshan at the temple.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the event on Monday, where an idol of the new Ram Lalla was consecrated. The Prime Minister emphasized the need to go beyond the construction of the grand mandir and focus on building the foundation of a “strong, capable, and divine” India for the next 1,000 years.
The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, built-in the traditional Nagara style, boasts a length of 380 feet and a width of 250 feet. Standing 161 feet above the ground, it is supported by 392 pillars and features intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, Gods, and Goddesses. The sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor houses the idol of Shri Ramlalla, depicting the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram.