Ayodhya gears up for grand flag-hoisting at Ram temple on Nov 25

In Ayodhya, preparations are in top gear for the grand flag-hoisting ceremony at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple on November 25, an event that will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Authorities are working tirelessly to ensure smooth movement of devotees and dignitaries, with multiple arrangements already in place to manage the large inflow of pilgrims.

Ram Janmabhoomi Temple Construction Committee chairman Nripendra Mishra said that every step is being taken to avoid any inconvenience during the ‘Ram Baraat’ procession and associated cultural programmes. Special attention is being given to crowd management, safety measures and ceremonial protocol.

To provide ease of darshan for devotees, the Ramlalla sanctum will remain open for over 16 hours on November 26. Along with spiritual significance, the administration is also focusing on discipline and hospitality. All government employees deployed in the temple area have been asked to undergo two days of training to ensure courteous behaviour and orderly conduct while assisting the pilgrims.

On the technical front, Mishra informed that both manual and mechanical systems for placing the ceremonial flag atop the main temple spire have been strengthened. Flags for all seven temples within the premises will be triangular, bear only the ‘Om’ symbol, and remain smaller than the main temple’s flag. Two successful trial runs of the hoisting have already been conducted. These flags will stay permanently and will be lowered only once or twice a year for replacement.

In an important gesture, Mishra added that several eminent individuals who could not be invited during the Pran Pratishtha ceremony will now be sent invitations for this occasion.

With just days to go, Ayodhya is gearing up for a historic and spiritually significant ceremony, expected to draw massive public participation and national attention.

The Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya was held on January 22, 2024, marking a landmark moment in India’s cultural and spiritual history. The consecration of the Ram Lalla idol drew national attention and global viewership. With elaborate Vedic rituals and participation of saints and dignitaries, the event officially opened the temple for worship after centuries of anticipation.