Ayodhya Opens up to Historic Consecration Ceremony of Ram Janmabhoomi Temple

• 23 Jan 2024

On 22^nd January, 2024, the temple town of Ayodhya saw a momentous occasion as it opened the grand pran-pratishtha (consecration ceremony) of the newly constructed Ram Janmabhoomi Temple.

Key Points

• Dignitaries and Global Attention: Prime Minister Narendra Modi presided over the consecration ceremony, officiated by a team of priests led by Varanasi priest Lakshmikant Dixit. The event witnessed representation from major spiritual and religious sects, drawing attention not only nationally but globally.
• Architectural Marvel: The Ram Mandir, designed by architect Chandrakant B Sompura in collaboration with son Ashish, is constructed in the traditional Nagara style. The temple boasts dimensions of 380 feet length, 250 feet width, and 161 feet height, supported by 392 pillars and 44 doors.
• Interior Details and Sanctum Sanctorum: The temple features intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities on pillars and walls. The main sanctum sanctorum houses the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram (Shri Ram Lalla), and the first floor showcases Shri Ram Darbar.
• Mandir's Components and Structure: With five halls, including Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap, the temple has a well-thought-out design. The main entrance is situated on the eastern side, accessed through 32 stairs via Singh Dwar.
• Additional Temples: Surrounding the main temple are Mandirs dedicated to various deities like Surya Dev, Devi Bhagwati, Ganesh Bhagwan, Bhagwan Shiv, Maa Annapurna, and Hanuman ji. The temple's foundation is supported by a significant number of columns.
• Inclusive Facilities and Environmental Considerations: The temple incorporates ramps and lifts for the differently-abled and elderly. A 732-meter-long rectangular compound wall (Parkota) surrounds the Mandir. The complex includes a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, and an independent power station.
• Special Construction Techniques: The construction avoids the use of steel or iron, emphasizing traditional materials. The main temple structure features Bansi Paharpur Pink Sandstone, while granite stones provide a durable foundation. White Makrana marble and coloured marble are intricately used for inlay work.
• Symbolic Bricks and Cultural Connection: Special bricks called "Ram Shilas" with the inscription "Shri Ram" draw a symbolic connection to the stones believed to be used in the construction of Ram Setu. The complex includes proposed Mandirs for various revered personalities.
• Financial and Timeframe Details: The estimated expenditure for the architectural marvel is Rs 1,800 crore, with Rs 900 crore reported between February 5, 2020, and March 31, 2023. The construction showcases Bharat’s traditional and indigenous technology, emphasizing environmental conservation.