In a breathtaking blend of devotion and cutting-edge science, Ayodhya witnessed a historic moment on Sunday as the divine rays of the Sun adorned the forehead of Ram Lalla during the much-awaited Surya Tilak. At the stroke of 12 noon, the deity was bathed in sunlight for precisely four minutes — a spectacle that left thousands in awe and millions watching around the world spellbound.
“I have never seen anything like this,” said Ramesh Tiwari, a pilgrim from Varanasi, his eyes gets moist with emotion. “It felt as if the heavens themselves descended upon Ayodhya to bless Ram Lalla.”
The celestial ceremony was the highlight of the Ram Janmotsav celebrations this year. For months, scientists from ISRO and several IITs worked tirelessly to make this extraordinary moment a reality. Using a series of mirrors, brass pipes and lenses, they crafted a solar alignment that would reflect sunlight with pinpoint precision onto the deity’s forehead, forming a radiant 75mm disc known as the Surya Tilak.
“This is not just science, it is spiritual engineering,” said Dr Aniket Sharma, a member of the ISRO technical team. “We are honoured to have played a role in such a sacred event.”
Ram Lalla, the child deity, was dressed in resplendent yellow garments embedded with precious stones, and wore a shining golden crown. The temple doors opened as early as 3:30 am, setting the stage for a day filled with rituals — Shringar, Raag-Bhog, Aarti and continuous darshan.
As the final minutes approached noon, the excitement was palpable. Devotees broke into bhajans and chants of “Bhaye Pragat Kripala Deen Dayala, Kaushalya Hitkari” as temple bells rang and the Surya Tilak ceremony unfolded.
Ayodhya’s railway station was under a tight security cover. Led by Inspector Yashwant Singh, over 200 RPF personnel were deployed. A flag march on Saturday boosted public confidence ahead of the big day. Entry and exit points were streamlined — three gates for entry, two for exit, and one for emergencies — while 235 CCTV cameras monitored every corner of the premises.
“Passenger safety is our top priority. We’ve ensured that even in large crowds, no one feels unsafe,” said Inspector Singh.
To control the swelling crowds, three holding areas were created near the station to regulate pilgrim flow. Within the city, Ayodhya was divided into zones and sectors, each under the command of zonal and sector magistrates, accompanied by senior police officers.
Drawing from the crowd control strategies used during the Maha Kumbh, Commissioner Gaurav Dayal said, “We have implemented tried and tested innovations — shaded walkways, drinking water kiosks, and dedicated health centres — to ensure a smooth experience for every devotee.”
Health services were on high alert. Fourteen temporary health centres were set up with adequate medical staff, ORS packets were distributed to counter the summer heat, and seven 108 ambulances were stationed for emergencies. The municipal corporation deployed cleaning teams for regular sanitation thrice a day.
Among the early visitors to the temple was Ayodhya MP Awadhesh Prasad. Speaking to reporters he said, “I feel truly blessed. Ram is not just in my name, He is in my soul. My family has worshipped at this temple for generations. That I am now representing Ayodhya as an MP is nothing but the grace of Ram.”
He added with pride, “Today, the whole world is watching Ayodhya. This is a moment of spiritual resurgence for India.”
As the golden light faded and the chants slowly quietened, one truth remained — for four luminous minutes, Ayodhya was witness to a divine miracle, where faith and science stood hand in hand to pay homage to Ram Lalla.
