By Dr. Vishakha Srivastava
Ayodhya: Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir is gearing up for a grand spectacle on November 25, when a flag hoisting ceremony will be held in the temple complex. To mark the occasion, the temple trust has decided to conduct a partial presentation of facade lighting, which will illuminate not only the main sanctum but also the surrounding temples and the fortified perimeter. Unlike conventional setups, the lighting will rely solely on linear lights, with decorations enhanced through flash LEDs and iconography.
Temple Construction Committee Chairman Nripendra Mishra, after reviewing the ongoing works, announced that the agency handling facade lighting has been given three months to prepare. “The trust’s effort will be to ensure that the 8,000–10,000 devotees and guests attending the ceremony experience the temple’s illuminated grandeur up close,” Mishra said.
As part of the preparations, a technical study is underway to examine the load capacity of the seating area, which will accommodate around 10,000 people. Mishra added that arrangements are being made to ensure the comfort and safety of attendees.
The temple complex, spread across 75 acres, is also nearing completion. A grand garden is being developed within the premises, designed to create a devotional ambience rather than a leisure park. Visitors will be able to enjoy bhajans and kirtans in a serene environment, with no statues installed, emphasizing spiritual experience over recreation.
In addition, work on the International Ram Katha Museum is progressing. While curators are developing its storyline, IIT Chennai has been entrusted with designing the galleries and creating high-tech presentations that will showcase episodes from the Ramcharitmanas through modern technology.
The temple will also feature four grand entry gates, each named after revered saints. Their designs have been finalized, with inscriptions narrating details about the saints. Gate No. 11 is expected to be completed by October 15, while Gate No. 3 will be ready in November. The Sugreev Dwar and the VIP northern gate are also under construction. Once Gate No. 11 opens for devotees, Gate No. 3 will be closed.
With these preparations, the Ram Mandir Trust is aiming to ensure that the flag hoisting ceremony becomes a historic and spiritually enriching experience for devotees worldwide.
