The installation of the new idol of Lord Ram took place inside Ayodhya’s Ram Temple yesterday, in preparation for the upcoming consecration ceremony on Monday.
Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje shared the first photo of the 51-inch idol this morning. Crafted by Mysuru-based artist Arun Yogiraj, the idol depicts the deity as a five-year-old child in a standing posture and is made of black stone.
Amid the chanting of prayers, the Ram Lalla idol found its place in the sanctum sanctorum during the ongoing rituals that commenced on January 12. Prime Minister Modi is set to perform the puja for the “Pran Pratistha” on January 22, led by a team of priests led by Lakshmikant Dixit.
In preparation for the consecration ceremony, the Prime Minister is adhering to strict rules and rituals, including sleeping on the floor with only a blanket and consuming only coconut water. He has urged the public not to visit Ayodhya on January 22 to avoid causing any disruptions to Lord Ram, inviting everyone to join starting January 23.
Additionally, PM Modi has called on every Indian to light a diya in their homes on January 22. The consecration event will host over 11,000 specially invited guests from across the country and abroad, according to the temple trust.