The United States is witnessing a wave of joy and anticipation among the Hindu American community as preparations are underway for the historic consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, India. The grand event, scheduled for January 22, has inspired a series of celebratory initiatives across the United States, symbolizing the deep cultural and religious ties that connect the Indian diaspora with their roots.
One of the remarkable expressions of this enthusiasm is the installation of giant billboards featuring Lord Ram and the majestic shrine in various states across the U.S. More than 40 billboards have been strategically placed in states like Texas, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, and Georgia, among others. These visually striking displays serve as a testament to the elation and joy that Hindu Americans feel as they eagerly anticipate the auspicious ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony at the birthplace of Lord Ram in Ayodhya.
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), U.S. chapter, in collaboration with Hindus from different parts of the country, has spearheaded this initiative to spread awareness and celebrate the monumental occasion. The billboards not only showcase the divine imagery of Lord Ram and the temple but also convey a resounding message that Hindu Americans are actively participating in this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Amitabh VW Mittal, the general secretary of Hindu Parishad of America, expressed the overwhelming emotions within the community, stating, “The resounding message conveyed by these billboards is that Hindu Americans are elated and joyously participating in this once-in-a-lifetime event. Their emotions overflow as they eagerly await the auspicious day of the consecration ceremony.”
Teja A Shah, joint general secretary of Vishwa Hindu Parishad, America chapter, highlighted the palpable enthusiasm within the Hindu community in New Jersey. The community is not only looking forward to the grand celebration but has also organized various events, including car rallies, exhibitions, and curtain-raisers, leading up to the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ in Ayodhya.
“The enthusiasm is palpable, with members from Mandirs across NJ eagerly looking forward to this once-in-a-generation event,” said Teja A Shah.
In addition to the billboards, Hindu Americans have organized several car rallies as a symbolic gesture of unity and excitement. These rallies serve as a visible expression of the community’s joy, with participants showcasing their anticipation for the momentous occasion.
The Hindu American community’s proactive involvement and celebratory initiatives reflect a deep connection with their cultural and religious heritage. The grandeur of the upcoming consecration ceremony has resonated across the diaspora, inspiring collective expressions of joy, pride, and spiritual connection.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the ceremonial installation of the idol of Shri Ram Lalla inside the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple on January 22. The significance of this event goes beyond borders, uniting Hindus worldwide in celebration and reverence.
Vedic rituals for the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony will commence on January 16, marking the beginning of a week-long spiritual and cultural extravaganza. The global attention and enthusiasm surrounding the Ram Mandir consecration underscore the enduring cultural and spiritual ties that bind the Indian diaspora, even as they thrive in diverse corners of the world.
As the countdown to the historic event continues, the billboards across the United States serve as beacons of celebration, connecting Hindu Americans with the sacredness of Ayodhya and the momentous journey towards the consecration of the Ram Mandir. The grand visuals and cultural festivities unfolding across the U.S. are a testament to the shared joy and anticipation that unites the global Hindu community during this auspicious occasion.