The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya has witnessed an unprecedented surge in donations, collecting approximately ?183 crore from April to October 2024. This includes ?78 crore from direct contributions and ?105 crore in bank interest.
On average, 70,000 to 80,000 devotees visit Ramlala’s temple daily, with numbers doubling on weekends and tripling during major festivals. Monthly donations have reached ?10 crore through various channels, including offerings in the temple’s hundi (donation box), counters, RTGS, cheques, and online transfers. International devotees have also contributed about ?11 crore so far.
The temple has received a substantial amount of gold and silver from devotees. Over the past four years, offerings have totaled 940 kg of silver and 20 kg of gold during the last fiscal year (March 2023 to April 2024). In the current financial year, from April to October, devotees have donated 7.29 kg of gold and 170 kg of silver.
According to a temple trust member:, "The devotion we witness is overwhelming. People come with their entire families to offer what they can, from coins to precious metals. It is a reflection of deep faith and shared purpose."
To ensure authenticity, the Government of India’s Security Printing and Minting Corporation is tasked with verifying the quality of these donations at its Hyderabad facility. Temple administrator Suresh Mishra added, "We follow strict protocols to maintain transparency. Every donation, big or small, is meticulously accounted for."
The trust has also been actively expanding the Ram Janmabhoomi complex, purchasing about 37 acres of land over the past four years at a cost of ?328 crore. Recent acquisitions between August and October alone amounted to over ?29 crore for more than two acres.
Trust member Anil Mishra shared, "The land acquisitions are crucial for accommodating the ever-growing number of devotees. The aim is to create a spiritual and serene environment that enhances the overall pilgrimage experience."
According to trust sources, these acquisitions aim to accommodate the increasing number of pilgrims and ensure smooth temple operations. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust remains committed to enhancing visitor experiences as the temple’s grand inauguration approaches.
Meanwhile, the construction of the 161-foot-high Ram temple's spire commenced recently and is expected to be completed in four months. Additionally, seven other temples in the complex, dedicated to seven sages, are anticipated to be completed within the same timeframe.
The trust has also received significant contributions from international devotees, reflecting the global significance of the temple. Efforts are underway to ensure that the temple complex is ready to accommodate the influx of pilgrims expected during the grand inauguration.