The much-anticipated Ayodhya Ram Mandir, a symbol of cultural and religious significance, is set to open its doors to the public on January 23. After a series of religious rituals and ceremonies, the consecration of the idol of Lord Shri Ram will mark a historic moment for devotees and the nation alike.Consecration ceremony detailsChampat Rai, General Secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust, announced that the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, consecrating the idol of Lord Shri Ram, will commence at 12.20 pm on January 22 and conclude at 2 pm. The religious rituals leading up to this event will span from January 16 to January 21. On January 18, the idol, weighing around 150-200kgs, will be placed in the Garbh Griha of the temple, marking a significant step towards the temples completion.The auspicious timingThe auspicious timing for the ceremony was determined by Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid of Varanasi. The meticulous planning and adherence to traditions highlight the sacredness attached to the consecration of the Ram Mandir.#WATCH | Ram temple will be open for darshan for the general public from 23rd January, says Champat Rai, General Secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust. pic.twitter.com/GGwArdlbU4— ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2024Dignitaries in attendancePrime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the Pran Pratishtha at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and other dignitaries will also grace the consecration ceremony. The presence of thousands of seers from across the country, along with the families of the labourers who contributed to the temples construction, adds a communal touch to the event.Global representationThe significance of the ceremony extends globally, with around 100 heads from 55 countries receiving invitations to witness the Pran Pratishtha. Notable countries on the guest list include the USA, UK, Australia, Japan, Canada, Germany, France, and many more. Swami Vigyananand, founder and global chairman of the World Hindu Foundation, shared that even the Korean Queen, claiming to be Prabhu Sri Ram Vansaj, has been invited.Special invitationsOver 7,000 individuals are on the invitee list, encompassing a diverse group that includes Bollywood celebrities, cricketers, industrialists, and common devotees. The inclusive approach underlines the universal importance of this cultural milestone.Prime Ministers messagePrime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his gratitude for being a witness to this historic and auspicious occasion in an audio message posted on his official YouTube channel. His acknowledgment of the events significance further emphasizes the national importance of the Ram Mandir consecration.Nonetheless, as Ayodhya prepares for this momentous occasion, the opening of the Ram Mandir on January 23 signifies more than just a physical structure. It represents a shared cultural heritage, a testament to religious harmony, and a symbol of unity. The global representation and diverse invitee list underscore the universal appeal of this event, making it a significant chapter in Indias cultural narrative.
