As the countdown to the Ayodhya Ram Temple’s ‘Pran Pratistha’ ceremony continues, a series of rituals and preparations are unfolding in the sacred city. With the consecration ceremony scheduled for January 22, each day leading up to the historic event is marked by traditional rituals and significant moments.
According to reports, ‘Ganesh Pujan’ and ‘Varun Pujan’ are set to take place on January 18 as part of the elaborate rituals being performed in the run-up to the consecration ceremony. These rituals hold great significance in the Hindu tradition and are integral to the consecration process.
On Wednesday night, the idol of Ram Lalla was brought inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple, marking a crucial step in the preparations. However, it was clarified that the idol is not yet ‘virajmaan’ (installed) due to a technical issue, which engineers are set to address.
The ongoing rituals, which commenced on Tuesday, are expected to continue until January 21. Priest Arun Dixit shared insights into the upcoming ceremonies, stating, “The idol of Ram Lalla has been kept inside the sanctum sanctorum, but it is not ‘virajmaan’ yet. There is a technical issue, and engineers will be looking into it.”
As part of the ‘Jaladhivas’ ritual, the idol will be cleansed with water on the designated day, setting the stage for the consecration ceremony. ‘Ganesh Pujan’ and ‘Varun Pujan’ will add spiritual depth to the proceedings, conducted by a team of 121 priests assigned specific puja tasks.
A ‘Vastu Puja’ outside the sanctum sanctorum is also planned on the temple premises, emphasizing the importance of harmonizing the temple’s architecture with Vastu principles.
The ‘Pran Pratistha’ ceremony itself is scheduled to begin at 12.20 pm on January 22 and is expected to conclude by 1 pm. This central event involves the essential rituals required for the consecration of the idol of Ram Lalla, symbolizing the divine presence in the sanctum sanctorum.
To facilitate the influx of devotees, officials have announced the availability of battery-operated carts, also known as e-carts or golf carts. These carts will offer free rides to the elderly, persons with disabilities, and pregnant women, ensuring accessibility for all. The fare for other devotees is yet to be announced.
Additionally, recognizing the significance of the consecration ceremony, the Personnel Ministry has issued an order for all central government offices across the country to observe a half-day on January 22. The order states that the closure will be until 2.30 pm, allowing employees to participate in the celebrations.
Union Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh highlighted that the decision to observe a half-day closure is in response to overwhelming public sentiments across the country. He stated, “There was a huge public demand across the country regarding this. The decision on half-day closure of central government offices on January 22 has been taken in view of overwhelming public sentiments.”
As the rituals unfold and preparations intensify, the Ayodhya Ram Temple’s consecration ceremony stands as a historic moment, uniting millions in celebration and reverence. The meticulous observance of traditional customs and the broad participation of devotees underscore the deep cultural and spiritual significance attached to this event.
