India is all set to welcome Lord Ram! “Ram Aayenge” is the new flavor of the country. The entire world is celebrating Rama’s comeback to Ayodhya. The bordering countries like Nepal, Thailand, and Bhutan are contributing to the making of the grand temple. No wonder the sacred Ayodhya Ram Mandir symbolizes reverence for millions.
Addressing the public in Ayodhya, PM Modi asked people not to visit the Ram Mandir premises on January 22. He urged that “all the 140 crore countrymen should light Ram Jyoti in their homes on January 22 and celebrate Diwali.”
This monumental project has captivating facets often overshadowed by its sheer scale. In this exploration, let’s unravel the tapestry of interesting and lesser-known facts about the Ram Mandir. It will provide an intricate glimpse into the spiritual, historical, and architectural dimensions that reflect devotion and cultural heritage.
The construction and significance of the Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya have garnered immense attention and interest both nationally and internationally. Here are some interesting and lesser-known facts about the temple:
Historical and Religious Significance:
Ayodhya is considered the birthplace of Lord Rama, a central figure in the Hindu epic Ramayana. The construction of the temple at this site is a fulfillment of a long-standing demand by Hindu devotees. It is a long cherished dream of every Hindu household to see Ram Lala blessing the devotees in the temple of his birthplace.
Landmark Judgments:
Decades of legal battles have preceded the construction of the Ram Mandir multiple times. In 2019, the Supreme Court of India settled the long-standing Ayodhya dispute by granting Hindus the site to construct the temple and an alternate five-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board to build a mosque.
The Holy Foundation:
The foundation of the Ram Mandir holds great spiritual significance. It comprises sacred soil collected from 2587 regions, including essential places like Jhansi, Bithoori, Yamunotri, Haldighati, Chittorgarh, and the Golden Temple. Each soil particle contributes to the temple’s sanctity and connects diverse regions in a tapestry of spiritual unity.
Bhoomi Pujan Ceremony:
The temple’s foundation stone-laying ceremony (Bhoomi Pujan) occurred on August 5, 2020. Various dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, attended it.
Architectural Marvel:
The temple’s design gets its inspiration from the Nagara style of architecture. The grand structure with intricate carvings and sculptures depict Lord Rama’s life and legends. The Ram Mandir boasts impressive dimensions in length, spanning 360 feet, and width, measuring 235 feet. The height of the temple, including the peak, is 161 feet. It features three floors and 12 gates, making for a spectacular display of architectural grandeur.
Shri Ram Bricks:
The bricks used in building the Ram Mandir have the sacred inscription ‘Shri Ram‘ on them, a poetic reference to an ancient practice during the construction of Ram Setu. The practice involved using stones named ‘Shri Ram‘ to help them float on water. The modern version of these bricks promises to be more robust and durable.
International Donations:
The construction of the temple received contributions from Indians as well as the Indian diaspora and well-wishers from around the world, making it a global project.
Eco-friendly Construction:
The temple construction has emphasized eco-friendly practices. It aims to incorporate sustainable materials and practices to ensure minimal environmental impact.
Millennium of Strength – Without steel or iron:
The construction of the Ram Mandir is remarkable as it deviates from conventional practices by not using steel or iron. According to Champat Rai, the general secretary of Shriram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, the exclusive use of stones guarantees the structural integrity of the temple for a thousand years. It is a testament to the enduring strength derived from traditional construction methods.
Soil from Thailand for Ram Mandir
In a gesture of international spiritual camaraderie, soil from Thailand has been sent for the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla on January 22, 2024. This exchange reinforces the universal resonance of Lord Ram’s legacy, transcending geographical boundaries.
Community Involvement:
The temple’s construction has been a community-driven initiative involving various stakeholders, including saints, religious leaders, and devotees.
Cultural Revival:
The construction of the Shri Ram Mandir symbolizes cultural revival and spiritual reawakening for many Hindus. There’s massive potential for it to become a significant pilgrimage site attracting devotees worldwide.
Unity in Diversity:
The temple’s construction has also been hailed as a symbol of unity in diversity, fostering harmony and coexistence among different religious communities in India.
Shri Ram Mandir Completion and Inauguration :
While the temple’s construction has progressed, the exact completion and inauguration dates may vary. It is advisable to refer to the latest updates or official sources for accurate information regarding the temple’s status.
The Ayodhya Ram Mandir is more than a mere construction project. It represents the convergence of faith, history, and architectural excellence. As the construction advances, it invites both believers and enthusiasts to explore its multi-dimensional narrative. Every brick and inscription tells a story rooted in spiritual heritage and cultural significance. The temple is a living embodiment of these tales, waiting for visitors to unravel its mysteries. The temple is a testament to India’s rich cultural, historical, and spiritual heritage, symbolizing devotion, unity, and peace. I hope you liked reviewing the above list of facts about the temple. Do share in the comments which fact you found most interesting. You may share more unknown facts about the temple or any interesting related incidents.
