Ayodhya: On the first day of 2025, Ayodhya saw a historic influx of devotees as thousands flocked to the Ram Lalla Temple to seek blessings. According to official estimates, nearly 1 million devotees visited Ayodhya on New Year’s Day, with over 212,000 offering prayers at the Ram Lalla Temple and more than 250,000 visiting the revered Hanuman Garhi shrine.
Devotees Brave the Cold for Darshan
The temple doors opened to the public at 6:30 AM, and despite freezing temperatures and a cold wave sweeping the region, devotees lined up for hours to offer their prayers. The atmosphere in Ayodhya was both grand and divine, especially after the consecration of Ram Lalla. Many devotees began their day with a holy dip in the Sarayu River before joining the 2 to 3-kilometer-long queues leading to the temple.
Streets Overflow with Faith
Ayodhya’s streets were packed with pilgrims making their way to the temple city. The town presented a magnificent scene as the faithful marched forward with unshaken devotion. With the turnout surpassing last year’s records, over 1 million devotees visited Ayodhya, presenting a logistical challenge for the administration.
Special Arrangements for Seamless Management
The surge in visitors prompted the administration to make extensive arrangements. Special parking facilities were set up along highways to prevent traffic congestion within the city. Devotees walked to the Sarayu Ghats and temples, ensuring smooth movement throughout the city.
From a security perspective, robust measures were implemented. SP Security Brahmachari Dubey stated that additional police personnel were deployed to maintain order. Teams from specialized units like ATS (Anti-Terrorism Squad) and STF (Special Task Force) were stationed, ensuring a safe environment. Surveillance was enhanced with CCTV cameras and drones monitoring the area.
A Historic and Devotional Start to 2025
The grandeur of the celebrations and the unwavering faith of the devotees turned Ayodhya into a historic spectacle on New Year’s Day. The sight of the illuminated Ram Lalla Temple, combined with the unwavering devotion of millions, left an indelible mark on the first day of the year, reaffirming Ayodhya’s status as a spiritual hub.
