Ayodhya's Ram Temple Draws Crowds as Doors Open to Devotees

_{Devotees wait in queues to undergo security check to enter the Ram temple in Ayodhya on Tuesday, PTI}

On Tuesday, the doors of the Ram temple in Ayodhya opened to the general public following the consecration of the Ram Lalla idol a day earlier. The occasion attracted a large number of devotees, including locals and visitors from other states, who had gathered outside the main gates since late Monday night, patiently waiting to enter the premises.

Devotees, carrying flags bearing the visages of Lord Ram and chanting "Jai Shri Ram," endured the biting cold for hours before the grand temple's doors finally opened. The atmosphere was filled with joy and reverence as devotees expressed their delight at being part of this historic moment.

Manish Verma, a devotee from Punjab, shared his happiness, saying, "Felt so delighted, my life's aim has been fulfilled. Our ancestors struggled for this and it has been brought to fruition. The arrangement should continue like this and the name of Lord Ram should reign for ages."

The consecration ceremony, a landmark event, took place on Monday, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasized the temple's significance and called for building the foundation of a "strong, capable, and divine" India for the next 1,000 years.

While a large number of invitees, including seers, had the opportunity for a 'darshan' of the deity soon after the consecration ceremony, the doors of the temple were opened to the general public on Tuesday morning.

Devotees, who had been camping in Ayodhya before the consecration ceremony, eagerly waited in serpentine queues outside the temple. Some had made long and difficult journeys to reach the temple town.

Nitish Kumar, from Bihar's Madhepura district, cycled over 600 kilometers to reach Ayodhya. Despite the massive rush, he remained hopeful of having a 'darshan' and expressed his determination to start his journey back once his wish was fulfilled.

Anurag Sharma from Rajasthan's Sikar, who brought a model of the temple with him, stated, "I will go back only after having a 'darshan' of Ram Lalla."

Groups of people, including those who undertook 'padyatras' and long journeys, marched towards the temple through the decked-up Ram Path. Devotees turned the gates of the temple into selfie spots, capturing the adorned entrance with flowers and lights.

Chants of "Jai Shri Ram" echoed in the air as devotees walked in and out of the temple complex. Inside the main temple, the grand halls resounded with the continuous chanting of "Jai Shri Ram."

The temple complex, built in the traditional Nagara style, spans 380 feet in length, 250 feet in width, and will eventually rise to 161 feet at the 'shikhar.' It boasts 392 pillars and 44 doors, creating a sacred and impressive structure for devotees to experience.

Jan. 23, 2024 1:56 p.m. 1636

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