Renowned sculptor Arun Yogiraj, the artist behind the iconic Ram Lalla idol, graced the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Wednesday alongside his family, marking their presence at the vibrant celebrations of Ram Navmi.
Arun conveyed his joy, expressing eager anticipation for the Ram Navami festivities. “This is our inaugural visit following the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony. My family was elated witnessing my craftsmanship. Arriving yesterday, we had the opportunity to pay homage to Ram Lalla. It’s a privilege to be invited to this auspicious event. We eagerly await the Ram Navami celebrations, seeking blessings for the well-being of all citizens,” he remarked.
Following the splendid Pran Pratishtha ceremony, the sacred grounds of Ram Janmabhoomi are once again adorned with grand festivities, this time in honor of the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami. Celebrations are underway at the Ram Mandir, where offerings of 56 varieties of bhog, prasad, and panjiri are being made with great reverence.
Acharya Satyendra Das, the Chief Priest of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, affirmed that all arrangements for the celebration are meticulously handled by the Trust. The occasion of Ram Navami is being embraced with fervent enthusiasm, symbolizing a significant moment of reverence and joy.
The Chief Priest elaborated that every detail has been meticulously attended to, with special adornments adorning the idol of Lord Ram for the occasion. “He is adorned in vibrant yellow attire, followed by a ceremonial bathing with Panchamrit. Various types of panjiris are prepared, alongside 56 distinct offerings presented to the deity.”
Acharya Satyendra Das also emphasized the beauty of Ram Navami, noting the symbolic significance of witnessing the sun’s rays illuminate Lord Rama’s forehead. He underscored the day’s importance, particularly in light of the completion of the Ram Mandir. “Today holds profound significance for Ram Navami, as the sun’s rays grace Lord Rama’s forehead… Devotees are flocking to witness Ramlala, with all arrangements conducted in a spiritually reverent manner. This day is exceptionally special as the temple stands erected, sanctifying Ramlala’s divine presence within its walls.”
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his heartfelt greetings for the festival through his official channels. Reflecting on the historic Pran-Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya, PM Modi expressed profound gratitude. “This marks the first Ram Navami since the enthronement of our Ram Lalla in Ayodhya’s grand temple. The city resonates with unparalleled jubilation today. After centuries of anticipation, we are privileged to celebrate this Ram Navami in Ayodhya. It is the culmination of years of sacrifice and dedication by the nation.”
In a subsequent tweet, PM Modi expressed confidence in Lord Shri Ram’s principles guiding India towards progress. He envisioned a self-reliant India inspired by Lord Ram’s ideals, offering heartfelt salutations to the deity.
Wednesday morning witnessed a surge of devotees flocking to the Ram Mandir, demonstrating their faith and exuberance. Before entering the temple, many devotees purified themselves with a dip in the sacred waters of the Saryu River. Temple visits commenced at 3:30 am, attracting a multitude of worshipers.
The celebrations are set to be broadcast across approximately 100 LED screens throughout the city, as well as on the trust’s social media platforms.