As the devoted city of Ayodhya eagerly counts down to the grand opening of the Ram Temple on January 22, a spectacular celebration is set to unfold. In a remarkable display, the world’s largest lamp, standing at an impressive 300 feet, will illuminate the city at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, adding a dazzling touch to the festivities.
Symbolism and Preparation
Jagadguru Paramhans Acharya, a key figure in the preparations, emphasized the profound symbolism behind the lighting of this colossal lamp. Comprising 1.25 quintals of cotton and 21,000 litres of oil, the lamp holds significance beyond its sheer size. The materials used, including soil and water from different regions across the country, as well as cow’s ghee, create a unique blend representing unity and sacredness.
Significance of the Diwali Connection
Drawing a connection to the festival of Diwali, Jagadguru Paramhans Acharya highlighted the historical resonance. He stated, “When Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile, people celebrated the event as Diwali. We thought that we could start another Diwali at Ram Mandir as the statue of Ram Lalla would be seated in Ayodhya.”
Unprecedented Effort and Unveiling
Elaborating on the monumental task of creating this grand lamp, Jagadguru Paramhans Acharya expressed the immense effort involved. A total of 108 teams dedicated a year to its preparation, with meticulous attention to detail. Noteworthy is the fact that the lamp uses oil specifically brought from Sita Mata’s parental homeland, adding a touch of reverence to its uniqueness.
Vedic Rituals and ‘Netronmelan’
As the vedic rituals preceding the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ of Shri Ram Lalla entered the fourth day, Govind Dev Giri shared insights into the upcoming ‘Netronmelan’ ceremony. The unveiling of Ram Lalla’s statue involves applying honey to a gold bar, symbolizing anointment. The ‘Pran Pratishtha’ itself, scheduled for January 22, marks a pivotal moment in the construction of the Ram Temple.
City Transformed and Prime Minister’s Role
As the city adorned itself with vibrant petals in anticipation, Ayodhya transformed into a festive spectacle. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to perform the rituals for the ‘Pran Pratishtha,’ and a team of priests, led by Lakshmikant Dixit, will oversee the main rituals, encapsulating the spiritual and cultural significance of this historic occasion.
In essence, the lighting of the world’s largest lamp and the upcoming ‘Pran Pratishtha’ resonate as symbols of unity, spirituality, and the cultural renaissance surrounding the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The city, echoing centuries of history, prepares for a celebration that will be etched in the hearts of millions.
