In a monumental event that captivated the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spearheaded the consecration ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol at the newly constructed temple in Ayodhya. The ceremony, attended by approximately 9,500 invitees, witnessed a diverse assembly, including 4,000 saints, prominent businessmen, and a galaxy of actors and celebrities.
At the heart of the ceremony was the unveiling of the 51-inch Ram Lalla idol, crafted from special black granite sourced from Karnataka. A stone with a remarkable history, it is said to be an astonishing 2.5 billion years old, as confirmed by HS Venkatesh, Director of the National Institute of Rock Mechanics (NIRM) in Bengaluru.
The grandeur of the temple, constructed in the Nagara style, is supported by a total of 392 pillars and adorned with 44 doors. Each pillar and wall intricately showcase sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, Gods, and Goddesses, adding a layer of cultural richness to the architectural marvel.
Musical enchantment echoed through Ayodhya as over 2,500 musicians performed on more than 100 stages, creating an atmosphere of divine celebration. The temple itself, estimated to cost ₹1,800 crore, was funded through public donations, reflecting the deep-rooted devotion and collective efforts of the community.
A notable highlight of the ceremony was the presence of Indian film luminaries, including Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Rajinikanth, Chiranjeevi, Ram Charan, Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal, Katrina Kaif, Rohit Shetty, and Rajkumar Hirani. Their participation added a glitzy touch to the spiritually charged atmosphere.
The Ayodhya airport played a crucial role, witnessing the arrival of more than 100 charter planes within a record time of 20 months. These planes, originating from various destinations, were strategically parked at airports in Lucknow, Prayagraj, and Gorakhpur, facilitating the seamless influx of guests.
The international touch was not amiss, as UK billionaire Lakshmi Mittal, along with Mukesh Ambani and his family, graced the occasion. Ambani’s family contributed ₹2.51 crore to the temple, emphasizing the global significance of this historic event.
Security measures were paramount, with invitation cards featuring QR codes for enhanced security arrangements. Special immigration arrangements were made for Lakshmi Mittal, ensuring a smooth transition from London to Ayodhya.
The meticulous planning extended to culinary delights as well, with around 20,000 packets of ‘mahaprasad’ prepared for distribution among invitees and devotees. These packets contained a variety of traditional treats, including gur ki revdi, ghee mawa ladoo, ramdana chikki, Tulsi daal, akshat and roli, Ram diya, and cardamom seeds.
To ensure a secure environment, 22 movable barriers with attached barbed wires were strategically placed on crossroads. A robust security apparatus consisting of 10,000 CCTV cameras and AI-powered drones kept a vigilant eye on the movement of people. Private security personnel were also deployed to bolster the overall safety measures.
In a heartwarming note, many couples sought an “auspicious” start for their newborns by planning ‘muhurat deliveries’ in hospitals on the same day as the Ram Lalla idol consecration. This unique convergence of life events added an emotional and symbolic layer to an already historic day in Ayodhya.
As the dust settles on the consecration ceremony, Ayodhya stands as a symbol of unity, devotion, and cultural richness, echoing its significance far beyond the boundaries of the nation. The temple, a testament to collective faith and perseverance, marks a historic milestone in India’s cultural and religious tapestry.
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