Ayodhya gears up for Ram Navami; 25 lakh visitors expected at 2nd biggest event after 'Pran Pratishtha'

Digital Desk: Ayodhya's Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir is bracing itself for a monumental occasion as it prepares to celebrate its first Ram Navami on Wednesday, April 17. This event, second in significance only to the consecration ceremony held in January, is expected to draw an estimated crowd of over 25 lakh devotees, converging to offer their prayers to the revered Ram Lalla idol.

The Ayodhya district administration, in anticipation of the massive influx of visitors, is leaving no stone unturned in its preparations. Random spot checks, rehearsals, and elaborate security arrangements are underway to ensure the smooth conduct of the festivities. With more than 90 flights, 100 trains, and 500 buses expected to ferry devotees to the temple town, authorities are on high alert to manage the crowd effectively.

To accommodate the anticipated turnout, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has announced extended hours for darshan, keeping the temple open for 19 hours on Ram Navami day. Additionally, VIP darshans have been canceled until April 18, and special darshan passes have been suspended to streamline the flow of devotees.

A highlight of the celebrations is the 'Surya Tilak' ceremony, scheduled for April 17 at noon, wherein sunlight will be projected onto the forehead of the Ram Lalla idol in the 'garbhagriha'. This sacred event, lasting 4 to 5 minutes, marks the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami and adds to the grandeur of the festivities.

To ensure wider participation and viewing, the Ayodhya civic body plans to install 100 LED screens across the town for the live telecast of the celebrations at the Ram Mandir. This initiative aims to encourage devotees to witness the proceedings from the comfort of their homes and avoid unnecessary rush to Ayodhya.

Despite the extended hours and elaborate arrangements, the police and administration are meticulously planning to maintain order and security during the event. The city has been divided into zones and sectors, with round-the-clock deployment of officers and a dedicated control room set up to oversee the festivities and address any concerns.

As Ayodhya gears up to celebrate this significant milestone, the collective efforts of authorities and organizers ensure that devotees have a memorable and spiritually fulfilling experience on Ram Navami at the historic Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir.