The sanctum sanctorum of the magnificent temple at Ayodhya now houses the black stone idol of Ram Lalla created by Mysuru artist Arun Yogiraj, but two more idols are currently being considered for placement in different areas of the temple. One of them is an idol made of white marble that Satyanarayan Pandey of Rajasthan created. According to the sources, this idol, which was unable to reach the temples Garbha Griha, will now be positioned somewhere within the Ram Mandir.A tale of exquisite craftsmanshipIn the heart of Ayodhya, amidst the grand and newly consecrated Ram Janmabhoomi temple, lies a story not etched in stone, but whispered in the delicate veins of white marble. Its the story of a Ram Lalla idol, crafted with meticulous devotion, that while not finding its destined place in the sanctum sanctorum, holds an undeniable beauty and significance of its own.Sculpted by the skilled hands of Rajasthan-based artist Satyanarayan Pandey, this idol stands tall at 51 inches, mirroring the dimensions laid out by the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. Carved from a pristine block of white marble, it exudes an ethereal luminescence, as if capturing the moonlight that bathes the sacred city.The idol depicts Ram Lalla in all his youthful grace, standing with a regal posture and holding a bow and arrow, symbols of his divine strength. His attire, intricately carved from the very marble itself, flows with delicate folds, adorning him like a celestial garment. Behind him stands an arch-like structure, a canvas upon which smaller sculptures of Lord Vishnus incarnations find life, whispering tales of the deitys cosmic lineage.While this exquisite idol did not find its place in the temples inner sanctum, it wasnt relegated to the shadows. Recognized for its exceptional artistry, it is now carefully preserved by the trust, destined to grace another significant space within the temple complex. Its journey, though not the one initially envisioned, holds a unique charm. It embodies the spirit of countless artisans who poured their devotion into crafting multiple idols, each vying for the ultimate honor, yet united in their reverence for the divine.The story of this unchosen Ram Lalla idol transcends the realm of mere competition. It speaks of the boundless creativity and dedication that went into shaping these divine forms. It reminds us that beauty and devotion can bloom in countless ways, and that even amidst grand pronouncements, there lies a quiet grace in serendipitous paths.As visitors throng the newly built temple, their eyes may be drawn to the central idol bathed in golden light. But for those who wander a little further, who seek stories beyond the obvious, the white marble Ram Lalla will stand as a testament to the quiet whispers of art, faith, and the unyielding spirit of creation.
