Amidst the controversy stirred by former Pakistani cricketer Javed Miandad, updates on the construction progress, uncertainty about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s participation, and statements from key figures involved in the ceremony add layers of anticipation and complexity to the impending event, set to take place on January 22 next year.
As the Bhavya Ram Mandir consecration ceremony in Ayodhya draws closer, a video featuring former Pakistan cricket captain Javed Miandad has surfaced, sparking controversy and raising concerns about the potential spread of misinformation. In the video, Miandad makes provocative claims that visiting the Ram Mandir will allegedly convert Hindus into Muslims. The video, released three years ago on August 8, 2020, gained traction on social media platforms recently, just months ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony scheduled for January 22 next year.
“Those Hindus visiting the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya will come out as Muslims. It is our firmly held belief that our faith (Islam) will shine its light on those who visit places that are connected to our roots. Modi may have done wrong by getting the Ram Mandir built in Ayodhya, but it will work as a blessing in disguise for us. I have full faith in Allah that this will be the place from where Muslims will once again rise,” Miandad says.
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Construction Progress Update
In an interview with PTI, the Ram Mandir construction committee chairperson, Nripendra Mishra, provided an update on the construction progress. Mishra confirmed that the ground floor of the three-story temple is expected to be completed by the end of December this year. This milestone marks a significant step forward in the realisation of the long-cherished dream of a grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
Acharya Satyendra Das Ji Maharaj, the Chief Priest of the Ram Mandir, revealed that the rituals associated with the consecration will take place from January 15 to January 24. The Chief Priest emphasised the importance of these ceremonies, which will culminate in the Pran Pratishtha ceremony on January 22. A letter has been sent to the Prime Minister’s Office on behalf of the Ram Mandir committee, and a response has been received, confirming Prime Minister Modi’s expected attendance.
Prime Minister Modi’s Scheduled Arrival
As preparations intensify for the grand event, it has been officially announced that Prime Minister Modi will arrive in Ayodhya on January 22 to partake in the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. The ceremony is expected to be attended by prominent seers, eminent personalities, and a multitude of devotees. The presence of the Prime Minister adds a significant political dimension to the religious ceremony.
The consecration ceremony is expected to witness the participation of several prominent figures. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is anticipated to accompany PM Modi on this sacred journey, signifying the significance of the event in the state. Additionally, RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat is expected to be among those present at the event, adding a touch of spiritual gravitas to the proceedings.
During the ceremony, PM Modi will preside as the ‘yajman,’ a host who plays a crucial role in organising and overseeing Hindu religious ceremonies. This role takes on particular importance during the ‘pran pratistha,’ the custom of conducting religious rituals before the idol’s eyes are opened for the first time. The entire event is set to unfold between 11.30 am and 12.30 pm, a time that will undoubtedly be etched in the memories of those in attendance.
The consecration ceremony will attract the participation of leading priests from all corners of India. The temple trust has plans to extend invitations to numerous seers and saints, as well as dignitaries, top industrialists, and Padma awardees, creating a truly diverse congregation of people from various walks of life. Furthermore, the Temple Trust intends to invite heads of states and dignitaries from other nations, underscoring the global significance of this event.
