The upcoming consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, when Ram Lalla will be enshrined on January 22, unveils a unique architectural marvel that sets it apart from conventional structures.
“Built without the use of iron, steel or cement, this temple showcases a blend of traditional Nagara style with cutting-edge construction technology,” said Anil Mishra, a member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust.
One of the distinguishing features of the Ram temple in Ayodhya is its exclusive use of stone, a decision rooted in making the structure earthquake-resistant.
Mishra explained, “We have chosen stone for its durability, surpassing that of other construction materials. The temple has been constructed using remarkably malleable stone, deliberately avoiding iron due to rust concerns and ensuring earthquake resistance.”
The stones used in the temple’s construction are distinctive, each bearing a groove cut into it, eliminating the need for cement joints between them. These stones come from Bansi Paharpur in Rajasthan’s Bharatpur, enhancing the temple’s unique character.
During the initial foundation testing, the construction team encountered an unexpected challenge – the absence of soil, replaced by sand at the site. To overcome this, specialists cleared out the sand and applied 56 layers of a concrete mix, known as rolled compact concrete, to prepare the rocks for the foundation. This specialised mix, which eventually adheres to the rocks, serves as the base for the temple.
The construction process, adhering to the Nagara style and notably seen in structures like the Khajuraho temple, Somnath temple, and the Sun temple of Konark, eschews the use of iron and steel.
Collaborating with some of the country’s brightest minds from the Indian Institute of Technology, Chennai and the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), the temple aims to stand the test of time.
A spokesperson from the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust emphasised, “Using only stones, the temple is designed to withstand decay from air, sun and water, ensuring its longevity for at least 1,000 years.”
The integration of ancient architectural styles with modern engineering techniques positions the Ram temple as a testament to India’s rich heritage and technological prowess.