As the highly anticipated consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya approaches on January 22, 2024, preparations are in full swing to make the event grand and memorable. The city, known as the birthplace of Bhagwan Sri Ram, is abuzz with excitement as the final touches are given to the magnificent Ram mandir. In addition to shaping the temple, the programme of Pran Pratishtha, the consecration ritual, is also being meticulously finalised.
Amidst the fervour surrounding this historic event, a noteworthy development has emerged in Maharashtra. Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha has written a letter to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, putting forth a request that January 22 be declared a public holiday in the state to mark the consecration of the Ayodhya Ram Temple. In his letter, Minister Lodha also urged the Chief Minister to issue instructions for a statewide celebration of ‘Deepotsav,’ emphasising the cultural and religious significance of the occasion.
Maharashtra Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha writes to letter to CM Eknath Shinde and requests that 22nd January should be declared as a public holiday in the state to mark the consecration of Ayodhya Ram temple. He also demands that instructions be given to everyone to celebrate… pic.twitter.com/prdYWty02O
— ANI (@ANI) January 4, 2024
The demand for a public holiday and widespread celebration has sparked discussions across social media platforms, with users expressing their opinions on this proposal.
Notably, the throne crafted for the idol of Lord Ramlala is garnering attention as it undergoes a transformation being adorned with gold. The three-feet-high and eight-feet-wide throne, made of Makrana marble, has a copper base specially prepared with advanced technology for the gold coating.
In terms of the consecration ceremony itself, it has been revealed that only five individuals will be present in the sanctum sanctorum during Pran Pratistha. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to be the chief guest, joined by prominent figures including Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and the Chief Acharya.
The limited guest list underscores the solemnity and sanctity of the occasion, as these dignitaries come together to witness and participate in the historic consecration of the Ram Temple.
As the nation eagerly awaits the grand event in Ayodhya, the request made by Maharashtra Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha adds a new dimension to the celebrations, calling for unity and widespread participation in honouring the cultural and religious significance of this momentous occasion. The decision on whether January 22 will be declared a public holiday in Maharashtra remains awaited, as the state government considers the proposal in the spirit of fostering communal harmony and acknowledging the importance of the Ayodhya Ram Temple consecration.
