Ram Navami celebrations in Ayodhya reached a pinnacle as the Ram temple bore witness to a spectacular phenomenon: the illumination of Ram Lalla’s forehead with the sacred ‘Surya Tilak’ during the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami. This extraordinary event unfolded on Wednesday, drawing attention to the temple’s sanctity and the devotion of its followers.
Harnessing the precision of science, a team of experts, commissioned by the temple trust, orchestrated this celestial display using mirrors and lenses strategically positioned within the temple premises. At precisely noon, a beam of sunlight, aptly named ‘Surya Tilak,’ was directed onto the deity’s forehead, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. Lasting for approximately three minutes, this divine occurrence captivated the hearts of onlookers.
The significance of this moment was not lost on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who, during an election rally in Nalbari, Assam, acknowledged its historical import. With a fervent chant of ‘Jai Siyawar Ram,’ he emphasized the long-awaited fulfillment of Lord Ram’s presence in his grand temple after a hiatus of 500 years. Modi later expressed his elation on Twitter, resonating with the sentiments of millions of Indians.
The ambiance in Ayodhya resonated with devotion as jubilant devotees echoed chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ and reveled in the festivities outside the Ram Janambhoomi Mandir. This year’s Ram Navami held a special place as it marked the inaugural celebration following the Pran Pratishtha of the Lord Ram idol by PM Modi on January 22 in Ayodhya. The festivities were adorned with offerings comprising 56 varieties of bhog, prasad, and panjiri, enriching the spiritual aura of the occasion.
Acharya Satyendra Das, the Chief Priest of Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, shed light on the meticulous preparations, detailing the adornment of Lord Ram in yellow attire and the ceremonial bathing with Panchamrit. Devotees thronged to the temple, exhibiting their unwavering faith and partaking in the vibrant celebrations. Prior to seeking darshan, many devotees purified themselves by taking a dip in the holy waters of the Saryu River.
The temple doors opened for darshan at 3:30 am, extending the opportunity for devotees to pay homage to the deity. The festivities were broadcasted on approximately 100 LED screens across the city, as well as the trust’s social media platforms, enabling people to participate in the celebrations from afar.
This extraordinary convergence of faith, tradition, and modern ingenuity exemplifies the profound reverence and devotion that define Ram Navami celebrations in Ayodhya, perpetuating the timeless legacy of Lord Ram.