The inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is set to take place on January 22, marking a significant moment in India's history. The consecration ceremony, known as the pran-pratishtha, will be presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, signalling a virtual commencement of his re-election campaign for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
Standing at an impressive height of 50 meters, the temple dedicated to Lord Ram Lalla has been erected on the site where the Babri Masjid stood for centuries until its demolition in 1992 by karsevaks, led by the then Bharatiya Janata Party president Lal Krishna Advani.
The pran-pratishtha ceremony is expected to commence between 12:05 pm and 1 pm, with Prime Minister Modi overseeing the rituals. Approximately 7,000 invitees, including politicians, industrialists, celebrities, and sportspersons, are anticipated to attend this significant event.
10:25 am: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive in Ayodhya and proceed to the venue via helicopter from the Ayodhya airport.
10:55 am: Modi will reach the Ram temple premises.
11 am - 12 pm: The prime minister may embark on a tour of the Ram Mandir premises.
12:05 pm - 1 pm: The pran-pratishtha ceremony will commence, with Modi leading the rituals.
1 pm: Modi will leave the temple premises to address a public meeting of around 7,000 attendees.
2:10 pm: Modi will visit Kuber ka Tila, where the ancient temple of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored.
The consecration rituals, known as 'pran Pratishtha,' began on January 16, starting from the Saryu river and culminating on Monday afternoon in the auspicious 'abhijeet muhurta,' as per the temple trust's schedule.
With the central government declaring a half-day holiday and several states following suit, millions of people are expected to witness the event live on TV and online platforms. Temples across the country have also announced special festivities to mark this historic occasion.