CM Yogi calls for unity on first anniversary of Ram Lalla consecration in Ayodhya
Ayodhya: The first anniversary of the consecration of the Ram Lalla idol at the grand Ram temple was marked with grand celebrations in Ayodhya, with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath urging citizens to strengthen unity and preserve cultural heritage. Thousands of devotees from across the country gathered in the temple town, transforming it into a vibrant hub of devotion and festivity.
The three-day celebrations, observed according to the traditional Hindu calendar, commenced with CM Yogi performing an ‘abhishek’ on the idol, followed by a recital of the ‘Yajurveda’.
The Chief Minister emphasised the importance of unity in safeguarding India’s revered religious sites. “If we remain divided in the name of caste and other ideologies, our religious places and sisters and daughters will continue to suffer,” he stated.
Reflecting on the historical significance of the Ramjanmabhoomi movement, CM Yogi noted that it represents a 500-year struggle to reclaim the birthplace of Lord Ram.
He highlighted the dedication of generations who fought tirelessly for the cause, saying, “It was their unwavering resolve that has made it possible for us to witness these historic moments.”
He also lauded the transformation of Ayodhya, likening it to the ‘Treta Yuga’, and expressed confidence that the Ram Janmabhoomi complex would soon become a grand spiritual and religious destination.
The anniversary events drew an average daily footfall of 1.5 lakh devotees, with numbers expected to rise further during the celebrations.
Temple head priest Satyendra Das remarked, “Ayodhya is soaked completely in the essence and devotion of Lord Ram. This huge turnout reflects the happiness of people from all walks of life about the consecration of Lord Ram Lalla’s idol.”
Special prayers included the ‘Panchamrit Abhishek,’ where the idol was anointed with milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar, followed by a ceremonial bath with the Ganga water. The idol was then adorned in yellow garments woven with gold threads, and a crown embedded with a diamond was placed on it.
CM Yogi also offered prayers during the ceremony, describing it as a call to strengthen national unity.
The Chief Minister quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s words from a year ago: “If there is Ram, there is a nation; if there is a nation, there is Ram. They cannot be seen in isolation.”
This message resonated throughout the celebrations, underscoring the interconnection between faith and national identity.
The anniversary concluded with thousands of devotees participating in prayers and offerings, reaffirming Ayodhya’s place as a spiritual epicenter for millions of Hindus worldwide.
