Ayodhya — Ayodhya witnessed a spectacular display of devotion, cultural unity, and traditional hospitality on Thursday as 250 distinguished guests from Tamil Nadu were welcomed under the fourth edition of the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam. The visit turned into a vibrant celebration of India’s shared civilizational heritage, with the holy city resonating with conch chants, drumbeats, and heartfelt greetings.
A Grand Welcome at Ram Ki Paidi
The arrival of the Tamil delegation became a moment of cultural splendour as their convoy of luxury buses entered Ayodhya. At Ram Ki Paidi, the guests were welcomed with roaring dhol-nagara, ceremonial shankhnaad, and a shower of fresh flowers. Senior administrative officers extended greetings using traditional customs, reflecting Ayodhya’s deep-rooted value of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’.
The warm reception left a lasting impression on the visitors, who expressed deep gratitude for the experience. Officials noted that the developmental efforts of the Yogi Adityanath government in Ayodhya played a significant role in winning the hearts of the guests.
A Journey Filled with Spiritual Reverence
The visit began with divine darshan at the newly constructed Ram Temple. The sight of Ram Lalla in his resplendent form elicited visible emotion from the Tamil guests, many of whom were moved to tears. The spiritual ambience grew stronger as the group proceeded to Hanumangarhi, where they offered prayers to Lord Hanuman.
The final leg of the visit brought the delegation once again to Ram Ki Paidi, where the serene Sarayu River, the magnificently developed ghats, and chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ created a deeply devotional atmosphere. The collective energy of Tamil devotees added a distinctive cultural harmony to the sacred setting.
Cultural Exchange Over a Shared Meal
After the temple visits, the group assembled at the newly built auditorium of Ayodhya Dham Bus Station for a specially curated community lunch. The menu blended traditional Tamil dishes with flavours of Awadhi and North Indian cuisine, creating a delightful culinary fusion.
The dining hall buzzed with conversations, cultural exchanges, and shared stories, turning the meal into a meaningful moment of unity between North and South India.
A Living Symbol of India’s Unity in Diversity
The entire programme stood as a powerful testament to India’s cultural interconnectedness. The centuries-old bond between Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu—rooted in devotion to Lord Ram—was visibly strengthened through this event.
District Magistrate Nikhil Tikaram stated that the visit left the Tamil delegation profoundly moved, instilling deep reverence and affection for Ayodhya. He added that the city’s enhanced infrastructure, improved ghats, beautified corridors, and strengthened security arrangements ensured the programme concluded with dignity and peace.
As the delegation departed, Ayodhya once again emerged as a shining emblem of spiritual unity, cultural harmony, and the unifying legacy of Lord Ram—capturing the essence of the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam in its truest form.
