Akshat distribution for Ram Mandir (Jagran)
In a monumental display of unity, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) have collaborated with resident welfare associations (RWAs), traders’ associations, and religious-cultural organisations nationwide to amplify excitement for the upcoming pran prastishtha ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on January 22.
The RSS and VHP are orchestrating an extensive outreach programme, aiming to engage at least 10 crore families, approximately 60 crore individuals, through a series of initiatives from January 1–15. Highly placed sources within the RSS indicate a significant surge in enthusiasm, especially surrounding the ‘pran pratishtha’ of Ram Lalla, which will be presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
A senior RSS leader stated, “We are coordinating with RWAs, traders’ associations, and other organisations to help in taking the message at a wider level.” The outreach efforts include the distribution of ‘akshat‘ (worshipped rice) and invitations, transforming the event into a massive public movement.
The ‘Akshat Kalash,’ symbolic vessels carrying worshipped rice, were dispatched from Ayodhya to 45 organisational states across the country. The VHP national spokesperson, Vinod Bansal, revealed that the initial quota of ‘akshat‘ sent to Ayodhya had been quickly exhausted due to the overwhelming demand. “Worshipped rice and invitations are being increased to meet the demand,” Bansal affirmed, emphasising the widespread participation in this grand ceremony.
Highlighting the growing demand for technological enhancements, the VHP is collaborating with temple committees to install LEDs and projectors at the local level. A senior VHP functionary mentioned the remarkable demand for projectors, with bookings for LEDs reaching an all-time high. This surge reflects the desire for live streaming arrangements, showcasing the event at public places to accommodate the growing interest and participation.
The Uttar Pradesh government is also embracing technology to ensure wider access to the ceremony. Plans are in place to live-stream the pran prastishtha ceremony in Ayodhya to all state jails, making it possible for over 1.05 lakh prisoners in Uttar Pradesh to witness the event. This inclusive initiative seeks to extend the joy of the occasion even to those within the prison system.
The fervour for the Ayodhya ceremony is not confined within the borders of India; it has spread globally. Hindus residing in Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom are actively planning events in numerous temples to observe and celebrate the pran prastishtha ceremony. The VHP has been informed of these international plans, emphasising the global significance and resonance of this historic event.
As the nation eagerly anticipates the pran prastishtha ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the collaborative efforts of the RSS, VHP, and various organisations underscore the scale and depth of public involvement. The event is transcending geographical boundaries, becoming a global celebration of cultural and religious unity among Hindus worldwide.
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