In a momentous event filled with spiritual significance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to perform the ceremonial act of opening the eyes of the Ram Lalla idol in the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram temple in Ayodhya on January 22.
The upcoming ceremony signifies the culmination of the seven-day Pran Pratishtha (consecration) rituals, marking a pivotal moment in the history of the revered temple.
A senior official from the Ram mandir trust disclosed that the prime minister will utilise a matchstick-sized golden stick to open the eyes of the Ram Lalla idol in the sanctum sanctorum, surrounded by 11 Vedic priests. The conclusion of this act will mark the end of the celebrations, he stated.
Commencing on January 16, the Pran Pratishtha rituals will unfold within the sacred precincts of the temple. The centerpiece of these rituals involves the installation of Ram Lalla’s new idol, meticulously crafted from black stone of Karnataka. This symbolic act is scheduled for January 17, when the idol will be placed on an opulent golden throne.
To facilitate the Vedic rituals integral to the consecration ceremony, eight havan kunds will be arranged within the temple’s sanctum sanctorum. Each kund will be assigned to a yajman (the beneficiary on whose behalf the rituals are performed), a priest and several assistants, ensuring the meticulous execution of the ceremonies.
Describing the intricacies of the rituals, a priest involved in the consecration ceremony shared, “A havan kund is a square structure where a sacred fire is kindled, and all offerings are made during a religious ceremony.”
Lakshmikant Dixit, a Vedic priest from Varanasi, along with a team of 121 other priests, will conduct the main rituals. The sanctum sanctorum will witness the presence of 11 Vedic priests, including Dixit, who serves as the head priest orchestrating the sacred proceedings.
This landmark event is not only a celebration of spirituality but also a testament to the unity and devotion of millions who hold the Ram temple in high reverence. As the nation eagerly awaits the momentous conclusion of the Pran Pratishtha rituals, Ayodhya becomes the focal point of a profound cultural and religious experience, reinforcing its standing as a symbol of India’s rich heritage.
WEEK-LONG RITUALS
As the historic moment approaches for the consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, a meticulously planned week-long series of rituals will pave the way for the grand culmination on January 22. Here’s a glimpse into the spiritual journey that will unfold at the sacred site.
January 16 to 17: The host appointed by the temple trust will lead the atonement ceremony on the banks of the Sarayu river, purifying the surroundings in preparation for the upcoming rituals.
January 18: Formal rituals commence with Ganesh Ambika puja, invoking Lord Ganesh for the successful completion of the event. This day will also witness Varun puja, Matrika puja (worship of seven goddesses), Brahmin Varan (Vedic rituals for knowledge), and Vastu puja (clearing harmful elements from the surroundings).
January 19: The day features Agni sthapana, the installation of sacred fire to purify the atmosphere, along with Navagraha sthapana for peace and tranquility. A havan, involving ritualistic burning of offerings like grains and ghee, will be performed.
January 20: The sanctum sanctorum will undergo purification with the holy water from the Sarayu. Rituals such as Vaastu Shanti (cleansing the land) and Annadhivas (worshipping the idol using food grains) will follow.
January 21: The idol will receive a divine bath with 125 urns, and the Shayadhivas ritual will be performed, symbolising the deity’s restful state.
January 22: The much-anticipated day arrives. In the morning, the Ram Lalla idol will be worshipped, leading up to the consecration in the afternoon during the auspicious Mrigashira Nakshatra – a specific celestial time chosen for the Pran Pratishtha.
