Here's what you need to know about Ram Lala Pran Pratishtha:
- Significance: The Pran Pratishtha signifies the formal installation of the idol of Lord Ram in the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram Mandir, making it a sacred place of worship for Hindus. It represents the culmination of decades-long efforts by Hindu devotees to reclaim the disputed site in Ayodhya, where they believe Lord Ram was born.
- Religious rituals: The ceremony will involve elaborate Hindu rituals conducted by a team of priests.
- Guests: A large number of dignitaries, including religious leaders, political figures, and celebrities, are expected to attend the event.
- Preparations: Extensive preparations are underway in Ayodhya for the Pran Pratishtha. The town has been decorated, and security arrangements have been tightened.
The Ayodhya Ram Mandir dispute:
- The dispute over the Ayodhya site dates back to the 16th century when the Babri Masjid was built on the land believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram.
- In 1992, the Babri Masjid was demolished by Hindu kar sevaks, triggering widespread communal violence across India.
- The legal battle over the ownership of the land continued for decades, finally culminating in a landmark Supreme Court verdict in November 2019.
- The judgment awarded the disputed land to a trust for the construction of a Ram Mandir, while directing the government to allocate alternative land for a mosque.
Ram Lala Pran Pratishtha is expected to be a historic event, drawing millions of Hindu devotees to Ayodhya. It is seen as a symbol of Hindu faith and cultural revival, and is likely to have a significant impact on Indian society and politics.
Here are some additional details you may find interesting:
- The idol of Ram Lala is a small, black-and-white stone statue that has been worshipped in Ayodhya since the 19th century.
- The Ram Mandir is being constructed in a traditional North Indian style of architecture.
- The Pran Pratishtha ceremony is expected to be broadcast live on television and online, allowing millions of people around the world to witness the event.
To set up for a special ceremony at home, start by cleaning the area and taking a nice bath. Put a fragrant mark on your forehead and wear light-colored clothes for a clear mind. Then, give a ceremonial bath to a small idol of Lord Ram using milk and honey. Below the idol, set up a small table with colorful designs and symbols. Cover it with a clean red cloth and place uncooked rice on it to represent abundance. Place a copper pot filled with water, decorated with colors and a coconut, surrounded by fresh fruits for prosperity. In the center, put an idol of Lord Ram facing you, along with a baby Ram idol and flower petals. Chant a mantra 108 times, thinking about Lord Ram and feeling connected. May your ceremony be filled with love, devotion, and blessings. 🕉️
Here's buying guide to things needed for puja: https://amzn.to/3Htqx40