The sacred town of Ayodhya is immersed in spiritual fervor today as the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple commemorates a significant milestone. According to the traditional Hindu calendar, February 1, 2024, marks the second anniversary of the consecration ceremony, or 'Pran Pratishtha,' of the idol of Ram Lalla (infant Lord Ram) within the grand temple's sanctum sanctorum.
Commemorating the Divine Installation
This anniversary is observed based on the Magh Shukla Paksha Dwadashi tithi of the Vikram Samvat calendar, which corresponds to February 1 this year. It was on this auspicious date in the Hindu almanac, falling on January 22, 2024 in the Gregorian calendar, that the historic consecration was performed. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust has organized special prayers and rituals to honor this day.
The temple witnessed a continuous stream of devotees since early morning, with authorities expecting a significant surge in footfall. Elaborate security arrangements and crowd management plans are in place to ensure a smooth and peaceful observance. The main rituals today include special 'aartis,' 'bhogs,' and religious discourses celebrating the divine presence of Ram Lalla in his new and majestic abode.
A Landmark in Religious and Cultural History
The Pran Pratishtha ceremony on January 22, 2024, was a landmark event witnessed by millions across India and the globe. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the rituals, which were attended by thousands of saints, dignitaries, and celebrities. The event symbolized the culmination of a decades-long movement and the beginning of a new chapter for Ayodhya as a premier spiritual destination.
The construction of the magnificent temple continues in its subsequent phases, but the sanctum sanctorum housing the beautifully adorned idol of Ram Lalla is complete and open for worship. The trust has been meticulously managing the daily rituals and the overwhelming influx of pilgrims since the temple opened to the public.
National Reverberations and Future Vision
The anniversary is not just a local event in Ayodhya but a moment of national reverence. Devotees in various parts of the country are organizing special prayers, hymn-singing sessions, and community feasts to mark the occasion. The day reinforces the cultural and religious significance of the Ram Temple in India's social fabric.
Looking ahead, the temple trust and government authorities are focused on developing Ayodhya's infrastructure to accommodate the ever-growing number of visitors. The city is undergoing a massive transformation, with new airports, railway stations, roads, and hospitality facilities being developed to serve as a worthy 'Dharma Nagari' (city of righteousness). Today's anniversary serves as a reminder of the faith that fueled this transformation and the ongoing journey to establish Ayodhya as a global spiritual hub.
