The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya witnessed an overwhelming turnout on Tuesday as lakhs of devotees flocked to offer prayers, creating a challenge for security personnel to maintain order. The surge in worshippers led to some breaking through police lines, leaving authorities struggling to manage the crowd. By Tuesday evening, an estimated 2.5 to 3 lakh people had already offered their prayers, with a similar number still waiting in line.
The grand opening to the public followed the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony held on January 22, which marked the consecration of the new Ram Lalla idol. Devotees started gathering at the temple gates from 3 am, and the premises are being closely monitored by more than 8,000 security personnel.
Lucknow Zone ADG Piyush Mordia addressed the media, reassuring that the darshan (viewing) was proceeding as usual but due to the large numbers, it was taking time. He urged people to remain patient, emphasizing that those standing ahead in the queue would get the chance to have darshan first. The entry and exit gates were clearly defined to manage the flow of devotees.
The scenes at the temple complex were marked by thousands of devotees eagerly waiting at the gates since the early hours of the morning. Carrying flags bearing the visages of Lord Ram and chanting “Jai Shri Ram,” the devotees exhibited remarkable patience despite the biting cold. The security personnel faced challenges as devotees pushed their way towards the temple, and at least one individual fainted in the commotion.
The consecration ceremony on January 22, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marked a historic moment with the installation of the new Ram Lalla idol. PM Modi called for building the foundation of a “strong, capable, and divine” India for the next 1,000 years. The temple’s doors were officially opened to the general public on Tuesday, leading to an outpouring of devotees who had camped in Ayodhya since before the consecration ceremony.
The heavy turnout included individuals who had embarked on long and arduous journeys to reach Ayodhya, symbolizing their devotion to Lord Ram. Despite the challenges faced by the security personnel in managing the crowd, devotees expressed their joy and fulfillment at being part of this historic event.
One devotee, Manish Verma from Punjab, expressed his delight, stating, “Felt so delighted, my life’s aim has been fulfilled. Our ancestors struggled for this and it has been brought to fruition. The arrangement should continue like this, and the name of Lord Ram should reign for ages.”
The scenes outside the temple also featured individuals who had traveled significant distances, such as Nitish Kumar from Bihar’s Madhepura district, who cycled more than 600 kilometers to reach Ayodhya. The dedication of these devotees reflected the profound significance they attached to the event.
The opening of the Ram Temple to the public witnessed devotees from various parts of the country, each with their unique stories of devotion and determination. The temple, built in the traditional Nagara style, stands as a testament to the culmination of a decades-long movement for the construction of the grand temple.
As the devotees chanted “Jai Shri Ram” and walked towards the temple complex, the atmosphere inside the main temple resonated with the same chants. The magnificent temple complex, adorned with flowers and lights, provided a spiritual haven for those seeking the blessings of Lord Ram.
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