In a vibrant display of spiritual fervour, Ayodhya, the sacred city that holds historical significance for millions, is undergoing a stunning transformation ahead of the much-anticipated consecration ceremony of the Sri Ram mandir scheduled for January 22. Local authorities have undertaken extensive efforts to deck up the city for the ‘pran pratishtha’ – the consecration ceremony – and the results are visible in the artistic motifs adorning the streets.
The focal point of this transformation is the Ram Path, a redeveloped 13-kilometer road connecting Sahadatganj and Naya Ghat, now renamed to pay homage to Sri Ram. The road, widened on both sides over the last two years, is lined with shops adorned with Hindu-themed artwork, creating a visual spectacle for residents and visitors alike.
Shutters of shops along the Ram Path and other prominent streets have been painted with intricate designs, ranging from temple motifs accompanied by the iconic ‘Jai Shri Ram’ chant to Swastika symbols and depictions of Sri Ram himself. The thematic artworks, painted in a uniform dark maroon, reflect the meticulous efforts of local authorities, including the Ayodhya Development Authority, the DM office, and the Ayodhya Commissioner office, working in tandem to beautify the city.
The redevelopment not only involved widening the road but also revamping the facades of structures along the route. Old buildings with ornamental facades were given a new look, sporting a creamish hue. Each shutter of the shops now carries a unique artwork, showcasing a temple silhouette, Swastika symbols, conch images, mace depictions, and ‘Shri Ram’ written in Hindi in calligraphic style, among others.
The spiritual essence is further heightened by the uniform boards displaying shop names and the logo of the Ayodhya Development Authority. As night falls, the closed shutters present a different view of the area, with the thematic artworks coming to life under the city lights.
Ram Babu, an employee at a local sweet shop, proudly points out the thematic artwork on neighbouring shops, attributing it to skilled artists commissioned by government authorities. The artworks depict various aspects of Hinduism, including Sri Hanuman, adding a distinct spiritual quotient to the temple town.
Several roads branching off the Ram Path have also been named with a religious touch, such as Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Path and Bhakti Path. These roads lead towards the Ram Janmabhoomi temple site, creating a seamless spiritual journey for devotees and visitors. A grand gateway with ornamental stone-made structures is under construction, poised to welcome pilgrims and tourists as they make their way to the temple site.
Beyond the Ram Path, other areas near prominent temples, like Hanumangarhi, have also received attention. Buildings in these locations showcase new facades in bright ochre hues, complemented by ornamental lamp posts adorned with religious symbols. Artists were spotted creating intricate designs on shop shutters, incorporating elements like a mace, trident, ‘Om’ symbol, and Hanuman Ji into a harmonious display.
As the city resonates with the chants of ‘Sita Ram’ emanating from temples, the spiritual atmosphere in Ayodhya is palpable, setting the stage for the much-awaited consecration ceremony on January 22. The local populace and visitors alike are captivated by the visual splendour and the profound sense of devotion that now envelops the holy city, marking a significant chapter in its rich history.
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