Bengaluru: On January 22, 2024, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) campus was awash with the spirit of devotion as it joined the nation in commemorating the historic consecration of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya. This landmark event was marked by a series of celebratory observances that drew in students, faculty, staff, and campus residents in a shared display of cultural festivity.
In anticipation of the day, the IISc community had been graced with the distribution of approximately 1500 ‘Mantrakshata’ from the holy city of Ayodhya, symbolising the blessings and the sanctity of the occasion.
The morning’s proceedings began with a puja at the Solapuri Amma temple, a revered place of worship within the campus bounds. The event saw an enthusiastic turnout, with nearly 150 ‘Ram Bhakts’ gathering to offer prayers and participate in the ceremonial rites.
The focal point of the celebration was the live screening of the consecration ceremony, held at the CCE hall from 11 am. Approximately 600 attendees were present, reflecting the community’s eagerness to be part of this historic moment. Post-ceremony, Prasadam was distributed, offering a taste of the divine to all those who came to witness the event.
In a gesture that mirrored the day’s significance, the student messes at IISc celebrated by preparing and serving special food items, adding a gastronomic delight to the religious observances.
As twilight descended, the IISc campus shimmered with the glow of countless diyas. The residents and students kindled the lamps, casting a celestial aura across the hostels and houses, reminiscent of ‘Deepavali’. This act of lighting diyas served not only as a beacon of the temple’s consecration but also as a symbol of the community’s shared joy and unity in the face of a historic spiritual milestone.
The day’s events at IISc were a microcosm of the national fervour, reflecting the institute’s deep-rooted respect for cultural traditions and its commitment to celebrating India’s rich spiritual heritage.
