Ayodhya, India: Amidst fervent anticipation, the new idol of Lord Ram was ceremoniously placed in the sanctum sanctorum of the Ayodhya Ram Temple yesterday, marking a key milestone ahead of the grand consecration ceremony on January 22.
Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje shared the first official photo of the idol this morning, offering a glimpse of the majestic deity carved from black stone. Standing a majestic 51 inches tall, the idol depicts Lord Ram as a five-year-old child, evoking the playful innocence of Ram Lalla, the beloved child deity.
Sculpted by renowned artist Arun Yogiraj, the placement of the idol was accompanied by the solemn chanting of prayers, filling the sacred space with a palpable sense of devotion. The consecration rituals commenced on January 12, culminating in the much-awaited “Pran Pratistha” ceremony where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will personally perform the main puja on January 22.
Ahead of this momentous occasion, Prime Minister Modi is said to be strictly adhering to a set of traditional rituals. News sources report that he is sleeping on the floor with only a blanket and consuming only coconut water. In a heartfelt message to the public, he has urged devotees not to visit Ayodhya on January 22 to avoid overcrowding and disruptions. Instead, he encourages everyone to celebrate from their homes by lighting a diya in honor of Lord Ram.
Over 11,000 specially invited guests from across India and abroad are expected to witness the historic consecration ceremony, marking a new chapter in the long-awaited journey of the Ayodhya Ram Temple.
