The holy town of Ayodhya is immersed in a spiritual aura as the ‘Pran Pratistha’ ceremony for the Ayodhya Ram Temple commenced on January 16. This significant event, organized by the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra, unfolds over seven days, following the meticulously planned Dwadash Adhivas protocols.
Day 1 – January 16: Prayaschita and Karmakuti Poojan
The initiation of the ceremony began with Prayaschita, a ritual of penance, and Karmakuti Poojan, signifying the sanctification of the sacred space.
Day 2 – January 17: Parisar Pravesh of the Murti
On the second day, the idol made its ceremonial entry into the temple premises, symbolizing the spiritual journey ahead.
Day 3 – January 18 (Evening): Teerth Poojan, Jal Yatra, and Gandhadhivas
The evening of the third day witnessed Teerth Poojan, a sacred water ritual, Jal Yatra, a procession with holy water, and Gandhadhivas, the offering of fragrant substances.
Day 4 – January 19 (Morning): Aushadhadhivas, Kesaradhivas, Ghritadhivas
The morning of the fourth day marked Aushadhadhivas, the worship of medicinal herbs, Kesaradhivas, the use of saffron in rituals, and Ghritadhivas, offering clarified butter.
Day 5 – January 20 (Morning): Sharkaradhivas, Phaladhivas
The fifth day commenced with Sharkaradhivas, the worship of sugar, and Phaladhivas, offering fruits in homage.
Day 6 – January 21 (Morning): Madhyadhivas
The penultimate day began with Madhyadhivas, a midday ritual signifying balance and harmony.
Day 6 – January 21 (Evening): Shaiyadhivas
The evening of the sixth day saw Shaiyadhivas, emphasizing the importance of rest and repose.
Culmination – January 22: ‘Pran Pratishtha’ Ceremony for Ram Lalla
The grand finale on January 22 will witness the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony for Ram Lalla, marking the consecration of the idol within the sanctum sanctorum.
Ayodhya, the sacred birthplace of Lord Ram, resonates not only with spiritual significance but also with historical and cultural importance for the people of India. The meticulously planned rituals during this seven-day ceremony reflect the deep-rooted traditions and the profound spirituality associated with the construction of the Ayodhya Ram Temple. As the ceremonies unfold, the town becomes a focal point of collective devotion and celebration, echoing the cultural ethos that has endured through centuries.
