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

The sacred installation ceremony commenced with elaborate rituals, starting with Ganesh puja on Thursday afternoon. Lord Ganesh was invoked to bless the proceedings that included the ceremonial bathing of the idol with water from holy rivers and application of various consecrated herbs.

The journey of the silver statue of Ram Lalla to the sanctum sanctorum began late on Wednesday night, taking a symbolic tour of the Ram temple complex. Originally a tour of Janmabhoomi complex was planned for the new idol but the decision to use the smaller silver statue was made for security reasons and due to the substantial weight of the newly-sculptured idol.

Under the guidance of chief host Dr Anil Mishra, the 10-kg silver idol embarked on a palanquin journey through the city, accompanied by Vedic chants that echoed through the temple complex. Flowers were showered on the procession by acharyas, temple construction engineers and security personnel. Dinesh Chandra and Dr Anil Mishra, members of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, worshipped 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 Rama Lalla, standing at an impressive 51 inches, now occupies a regal position atop a lotus throne, featuring the deity wielding a bow and arrow. The marble throne, standing at a height of four 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 harmonise with the grandeur of the gold-adorned doors. The temple spire is poised for a transformative gilded enhancement in the next stage of construction.

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 sacred paduka, weighing one kilogram, is a blend of gold and silver (seven kilograms of silver).

To facilitate the entry of devotees for darshan, a ‘parikrama’ (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 sanctorum.