The much-anticipated day of January 22, 2024, is upon us, heralding the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Symbolizing the end of numerous battles and asserting the rightful place of the temple, this historic moment is set to witness the gathering of more than 7000 individuals. Preparations are in full swing, with 4,000 saints and 2,200 other esteemed guests receiving invitations from the Ram Temple Trust.
Among the prominent invitees are Prime Minister Narendra Modi, political leaders, cricketers, businessmen, farmers, religious leaders, priests, and celebrities from various fields. Notably, the invitation list also includes families of Karsevaks who played a pivotal role in the movement, along with representatives from 50 foreign countries.
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Celebrity Line-Up
Bollywood luminaries like Amitabh Bachchan, Kangana Ranaut, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Randeep Hooda, Anupam Kher, Akshay Kumar, Madhuri Dixit, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Sunny Deol, Tiger Shroff, Rajkumar Hirani, Ayushmann Khurrana, Ajay Devgn, Madhur Bhandarkarand and others have been invited to grace the occasion.
Joining them are South Indian film industry stars, including Rajinikanth, Prabhas, Chiranjeevi, Mohanlal, Dhanush, Yash and Rishab Shetty.
Special invitations have been extended to two important personalities Arun Govil and Deepika Chikhalia, the iconic duo who portrayed Lord Ram and Sita in Ramanand Sagar's much-loved 'Ramayan' television show back in the 90s.
Words from Deepika Chikhalia
Expressing her excitement, Deepika Chikhalia shared, "Yes, we have been invited to Ayodhya on January 22. It will be something magical and a historic moment. I have always said that I am very blessed that I could play Sita ji in Ramayan."
About Ram Mandir
The 'pran pratishtha' or consecration ceremony of the idol of Lord Ram is scheduled for January 22, 2024, at 12:20 pm. This monumental temple, one of India's largest post-independence, seamlessly combines modern technological conveniences with ancient Indian traditions. Designed in the traditional Nagara style, the temple spans 380 feet in length, 250 feet in width, and 161 feet in height.
Architectural Marvel
Chandrakant Bhai Sompura, the chief architect with a remarkable lineage, designs the temple following Vastu Shastra principles. The entrance on the east is styled in the Gopuram tradition, reminiscent of southern temples. The walls will showcase artworks depicting the life of Lord Ram.
Construction Details
The estimated cost of construction ranges between Rs 1,400 crore to Rs 1,800 crore, with the temple trust receiving generous donations. The 79-year-old chief architect, Chandrakant Bhai Sompura, appointed in 1992, ensures the temple embodies traditional principles while incorporating modern elements.
Ram Lalla Idol
Two idols of Lord Ram will grace the temple. One, the original idol found in 1949, and the other, a towering statue visible from a considerable distance. The new Ram Lalla idol, made of dark granite and standing at 51 inches, will be placed on the ground floor of the three-storey temple.
As the nation eagerly awaits this momentous occasion, the inauguration of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir stands as a testament to India's rich cultural heritage and unity. The presence of distinguished personalities, both from within the country and abroad, adds a touch of grandeur to the event, making it a celebration that transcends boundaries and resonates with the spirit of unity and devotion.