In a historic event that resonates with the hearts of millions, the new idol of Lord Ram Lalla has taken its revered seat in the sanctum sanctorum of the majestic Shri Ram temple in Ayodhya.

The sacred installation ceremony commenced with elaborate rituals, initiated by the Ganesh puja on Thursday afternoon.

Lord Ganesha was invoked to bless the proceedings, which included the ceremonial bathing of the idol with water from holy rivers and the application of various consecrated medicines.

The journey of the silver statue of Ram Lalla to the sanctum sanctorum began late on Wednesday night, symbolically touring the Ram temple complex. Originally intended for a Janmabhoomi complex tour, the decision to use a smaller silver statue was made for security reasons and due to the substantial weight of the immovable idol.

Under the guidance of chief host Dr Anil Mishra, the 10 kg silver statue embarked on a palanquin journey through the city, accompanied by resonating Vedic chants that echoed through the temple complex. Flowers showered the procession from Acharyas, temple construction engineers, and security personnel.

Dinesh Chandra and Dr Anil, members of the Board of Patrons of Vishwa Hindu Parishad, performed worship rituals on the silver statue.

Upon returning to the temple complex, Mahant Dinendra Das of Nirmohi Akhara and priest Sunil Das led further ceremonies, culminating in the worship of the throne in the sanctum sanctorum. The majestic new idol of Lord Rama, standing at an impressive 51 inches, now occupies a regal position atop a lotus throne, depicting the deity wielding a bow and arrow. The marble throne, reaching a height of 4 feet, radiates opulence with its gilded exterior, while the golden touch for the temple spire is reserved for a subsequent phase in the ongoing project.

The collective height of the idol, throne, and elevated platform approaches nearly 11 feet, promising a spectacular sight for devotees visiting the sanctum sanctorum. While the combined height of the throne and idol stands at 8.25 feet, details regarding the height of the elevated platform are yet to be disclosed by the overseeing trust.

The luxurious golden embellishments within the temple will harmonize with the grandeur of the gold-adorned doors. The temple spire is poised for a transformative gilded enhancement in the next stage of the undertaking.

As part of symbolic gestures and remarkable architectural features, subsequent to the installation of Lord Rama’s idol, golden padukas (footwear) crafted by Shri Challa Srinivas Shastri from Hyderabad will be placed within the temple. Each divine paduka, weighing 1 kilogram, is a blend of gold and silver (7 kilograms of silver).

To facilitate devotees’ entry for darshan, a ‘parikrama’ or protective enclosure has been erected in front of the Ram Temple. Recent videos showcase a stunning two-tiered structure with a saffron flag flying high, creating a captivating visual display. The temple’s interior is illuminated by vibrant yellow lights, creating an ethereal ambiance reminiscent of a golden aura enveloping the sanctum.

The luxurious golden embellishments within the temple will harmonize with the grandeur of the gold-adorned doors. The temple spire is poised for a transformative gilded enhancement in the next stage of the undertaking.

As part of symbolic gestures and remarkable architectural features, following the installation of Lord Rama’s idol, golden padukas (footwear) crafted by Shri Challa Srinivas Shastri from Hyderabad will be placed within the temple. Each divine paduka, weighing 1 kilogram, is a blend of gold and silver (7 kilograms of silver).

To facilitate devotees’ entry for darshan, a ‘parikrama’ or protective enclosure has been erected in front of the Ram Temple. Recent videos showcase a stunning two-tiered structure with a saffron flag flying high, creating a captivating visual display. The temple’s interior is illuminated by vibrant yellow lights, creating an ethereal ambiance reminiscent of a golden aura enveloping the sanctum.