The inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya marks a historic moment in the religious and cultural tapestry of India. The temple, dedicated to Lord Ram, has a rich history rooted in the ancient epic, Ramayana.
The dispute over the site dates back several centuries, with tension escalating in the modern era. The Babri Masjid, built in the 16th century, became a focal point of contention as some believed it was constructed on the ruins of a temple that marked the birthplace of Lord Ram.
The dispute reached its peak in 1992 when the Babri Masjid was demolished by a group of activists, leading to widespread communal tensions. Legal battles ensued, and the case eventually reached the Supreme Court of India. In a landmark judgment in 2019, the court paved the way for the construction of the Ram Temple, acknowledging the historical and cultural significance of the site for Hindus.
The groundbreaking ceremony took place in August 2020, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi laying the foundation stone for the temple. The construction process was carried out with meticulous attention to detail, incorporating traditional architectural styles and techniques.
After a wait of 500 Years, the grand inauguration ceremony took place on January 22nd, 2023 marking the completion of this monumental project, attended by dignitaries and devotees from across the nation.
ISKCON joined in the global celebration of the honor given to Lord Sri Rama on Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi Temple for the installation of the Ram Lala deity.
ISKCON temples in India will participate in a special month-long celebration in Ayodhya,
During the celebration, ISKCON plans to feed 10,000 pilgrims daily, and hold festivals
promoting the chanting of Hare Krishna mahamantra. ISKCON will also set up a medical camp and distribute large quantities of Srila Prabhupada Books.
Many of ISKCON’s 800 temple communities around the world also participated in the
festivities in various ways—from live telecasts of the Ayodhya inauguration, offerings of sacred lamps, special worship services, extended kirtan ceremonies, and other events.
“Ramayana” written by the sage Valmiki, contains nearly 24,000 verses. The Ramayana epic is revered in cultures around the world---including Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Philippines, and more—and celebrated through traditional and contemporary art, dance, drama, music.
“We hope that this inaugural festival marking the legacy of Sri Rama and His teachings on dharma, righteousness, spiritual truth, and morality will inspire people around the world to practice selfless, compassionate acts for the benefit of all people and our entire planet,” said Anuttama Dasa, Minister of ISKCON Communications.
Some of the gifts given by devotees to Lord Ram in this grand celebration were:
*600 Kgs of Ghee from Rajasthan.
*The temple construction materials were brought from all over India.
*108-foot-long incense that was lit for the ceremony that came from devotees in Gujarat.
*Multiple helicopters showered flowers during the Pran-pratistha Muhurta which lasted 84 seconds.
*The world's Largest Lamp 300 feet in diameter made with 1008 tons of clay and 21,000 liters of oil was lit.
*And many other opulent offerings.
Summary:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=48BxGwB87D0 (Ayodya is immersed in celebration)
Full Ceremony:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GxyqZEW43UE (5:00:00 Darshan of Lord Rama)
Others:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tKFq6jnew8 (ISKCON Devotees feeding +10K devotees)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQ36-t8qGz8. (108 feet incense)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ymgkncf-h-w ( Ayordhya Lights up)
Jay Sri Ram!!
Ranchor Krishna Das
HpS - Thank you, RkD Swami! Hope to see you soon!!!
Hope your Sacred Tours is going well if you are so inclined.
Please send any news about your Sankirtan idea!
