In a display of unwavering devotion, devotees have inundated the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya with a torrent of offerings since the auspicious Pran Pratishtha held on January 22. The temple, dedicated to Ram Lalla, has seen an astonishing influx of contributions, including 10 kilogrammes of gold, 25 kilogrammes of silver ornaments, and a staggering Rs 25 crore in cash, cheques, and drafts. This outpouring of generosity underscores the profound reverence and adoration that millions hold for Sri Ram.
Prakash Gupta, the office in-charge of the Ram temple trust, revealed the astounding figures, highlighting the depth of devotion among the devotees. He further disclosed that the meticulous compilation of online donations, directly credited to the Trust’s bank accounts, is currently underway, promising to add another dimension to the already substantial contributions.
The sheer magnitude of devotees flocking to the temple is equally remarkable, with an estimated 60 lakh individuals making pilgrimages during the thirty-day period following the consecration ceremony. As anticipation builds for the upcoming Ram Navami celebrations on April 17, the temple trust anticipates a monumental surge in donations, with an expected influx of around 50 lakh devotees to the temple town.
In anticipation of managing the substantial inflow of donations during the forthcoming festivities, the State Bank of India has taken proactive measures by installing four state-of-the-art automatic counting machines at the Ram Janmabhoomi complex. These machines are currently operational round the clock, ensuring meticulous counting of currency notes amidst double shifts within the temple premises. Moreover, the temple trust has established a robust infrastructure, including a dozen computerised counters for issuing receipts and an equal number of donation boxes strategically placed throughout the temple premises. Plans are also underway for the construction of a dedicated counting room on the temple premises, equipped to handle the anticipated surge in donations.
To address the valuation and maintenance of the precious offerings, including gold, silver, and other materials bestowed upon Ram Lalla, the Indian Government Mint has been entrusted with the responsibility. Anil Mishra, a trust member, confirmed the commencement of work by the Mint’s team in Ayodhya, ensuring the proper handling and maintenance of these sacred gifts.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been forged between the State Bank of India and the temple trust, solidifying the bank’s role in managing the collection of donations and offerings. Under this agreement, SBI assumes full responsibility for overseeing the collection process, encompassing donations, offerings, cheques, drafts, and cash deposits, thereby ensuring transparency and efficiency in financial transactions.
The convergence of faith, generosity, and meticulous organisation underscores the monumental significance of the Ram temple as a focal point of devotion and cultural heritage. As devotees continue to flock to the sacred precincts, their offerings serve as a testament to their unyielding reverence for Sri Ram, enriching the spiritual tapestry of Ayodhya and beyond.
