On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated a spiritual undertaking by releasing an audio statement in anticipation of the upcoming dedication ceremony for the Ram temple in Ayodhya, set for January 22nd 2024. Through his heartfelt message, PM Modi implored for the nation’s blessings and declared the commencement of a unique 11-day ritual leading up to the momentous Ram mandir occasion.
“A mere 11 days await the divine installation of Ram lalla in Ayodhya. I am graced with the opportunity to be present at this sacred event. The Ram Lalla has chosen me to act on behalf of all Indian citizens during the ceremony. Bearing this honor in mind, I begin an 11-day solemn ‘anushthan’ starting today.,” he announced on platform X. An impassioned PM Modi expressed, “For the first time ever, I am filled with such sentiments. At this juncture, it’s exceedingly challenging to articulate my emotions.”
In accordance with traditional mandates, the Prime Minister is committed to observing the stringent protocols as prescribed in holy texts for the ‘pran pratishtha’ rites. PM Modi is set to oversee both the temple inauguration and the consecration ceremony on January 22 in Ayodhya. Meanwhile, the Congress party respectfully declined their invitation to the event, criticizing the BJP for politicizing Ayodhya and labeling it a ‘BJP/RSS event’.
PM Modi is determined to meticulously follow all prescribed rituals, despite his demanding schedule and responsibilities. In doing so, he has embarked on an 11-day anushthan (ritual). He expressed his fortune in being part of the ceremony and shared his profound emotional experience, noting that words couldn’t capture the depth of his devotion. “This emotional pilgrimage for me is more about realization than expression. I am unable to convey its depth and intensity. But I trust you understand my sentiments. The dream that many generations held dear, I am now poised to fulfill,” he added.
Ancient scriptures detail the complex process of infusing a deity’s image with divine life, a ritual known as Dev Pratishtha, which includes fasting and other preparatory steps. Speaking from Nashik Dham-Panchavati, a place closely associated with Lord Ram, PM Modi remarked on the spiritual significance of this location for commencing his ritual. He cited scriptural guidance on awakening divine consciousness within oneself through worship and Yagya, necessitating fasting and adherence to strict rules before the idol’s installation.
“On this auspicious occasion, I offer prayers at the divine feet… I recall the virtues of sages and ascetics and seek blessings from the people, who embody the divine, to ensure that my thoughts, words, and actions remain pure and devoted,” he concluded.
