Vaishno Devi Bhawan illuminated and adorned for Ram Mandir ‘Pran Pratishtha’ celebration

The sacred precincts of Vaishno Devi Bhawan in Katra are aglow with vibrant lights and adorned with festive decorations, setting a divine ambiance as the nation prepares for the ‘Pran Pratistha’ event at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Anshul Garg, CEO of the Vaishno Devi shrine board, announced that the 12-kilometer-long track from Katra Bab Ganga to Vaishno Devi Bhawan has been meticulously decorated, with flags of Lord Rama installed along the route.

The spiritual fervor is further elevated as the historic Raghunath Temple in Jammu undergoes a grand transformation, decked with flowers and fruits to commemorate the Ram Mandir ‘Pran Pratistha.’ This marks a momentous occasion, with the temple receiving such elaborate decoration for the first time since its establishment in 1853.

The two-day celebration commenced this morning, witnessing the participation of the Jammu and Kashmir Royal Family in various religious ceremonies. Pilgrims from across the nation are converging at the Raghunath Temple to pay their respects during this auspicious time
Yashajvi Yadav, a resident of Ayodhya, expressed her sense of blessing to be present at the Ram Temple in Jammu a day ahead of the ‘Pran Pratistha’ in Ayodhya. She shared her experience, stating, “I came here along with my family, and it feels blessed to have paid obeisance at this historic place. The place is beautifully decorated with flowers and fruits; we even took part in the Akhand Ramayana Path.”

The temple’s entrance, marked by the Raj Tilak and the Royal Bugle, welcomes pilgrims from various corners of the country. It holds historical significance, also recalling the tragic twin terror attacks in 2002, during which bombers targeted the shrine. As part of the efforts by the Jammu and Kashmir Government to boost religious and spiritual tourism in Jammu, coinciding with the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the J&K Cable Car Corporation has announced free tickets for pilgrims intending to visit the revered Peerkho, Mahamaya, and Bahu temples on Monday.

In a formal announcement, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir declared a half-day public holiday on January 22, 2024. The decision, issued through an official order by the administration led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, aims to facilitate the participation of the public in the significant religious and cultural events associated with the Ram Temple consecration.