Ayodhya today burst with devotional fervor as it witnessed the consecration of the new Ram Lalla idol at the newly constructed Ram Mandir on Monday. The town was enveloped in grand celebrations, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi actively participating in the sacred rituals, marking a historic chapter for the city and the nation.

The Consecration

Prime Minister Modi, adorned in a golden kurta paired with a cream dhoti and patka, walked into the temple premises with a silver 'chattar' (umbrella) placed on a red folded dupatta. The atmosphere was charged with devotion as he took the 'sankalp' for the "pran pratishtha ceremony" before proceeding to the sanctum sanctorum for the rituals.

The sanctum sanctorum also hosted prominent figures, including RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, all witnessing the sacred proceedings.

Chants of Devotion and Symbolic Petal Shower

As the ceremonies unfolded, devotees and guests chanted 'Jai Sri Ram,' resonating with the historic significance of the moment. The temple premises were showered with flower petals from army helicopters, symbolizing an auspicious blessing for the newly consecrated idol.

Dignitaries Witness Sacred Proceedings

The exclusive guest list featured prominent politicians, leading industrialists, top film stars, sportspersons, diplomats, judges, and high priests. Indian cinema stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Chiranjeevi, and power couples Alia Bhatt-Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal-Katrina Kaif graced Ayodhya with their presence to partake in the historic consecration ceremony.

PM Modi's Profound Words

PM Modi, addressing the gathered crowd at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, expressed the profound significance of the moment. "After centuries of waiting, our Ram is here," he proclaimed, adding, "Our Ram Lalla will no longer live in a tent; he will now stay in this divine temple."

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the broader cultural impact, stating that through the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony, the "soul of a civilization" has found expression once again in the world.

Musical Rendition

Ayodhya's famous poet Yatindra Mishra arranged a special musical performance with fifty traditional instruments from different parts of India during the consecration ceremony. This devotional music, called "Mangal Dhwani," echoed through the newly built Ram temple, bringing a heartfelt and soul-stirring touch to the event.

The consecration of the Ram idol marked a significant milestone, with different statues serving distinct purposes. The larger Achal statue, representing a deity that cannot move, will reside within the temple, while the smaller Chal statues will be used for processions and celebrations.

Sweetening the Occasion with Laddus

To sweeten the joyous occasion, five lakh laddus, each weighing about 50 grams, prepared at Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain city, Madhya Pradesh, arrived in Ayodhya. These laddus will be distributed to devotees as prasad, adding a delectable touch to the celebrations.

Across the globe, the Indian diaspora celebrated this grand event. Times Square in New York was illuminated with images of Lord Ram.

The grand consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya stands as a historic and joyous moment that transcends borders, resonating with the vibrant spirit of India.