Joyous celebrations mark consecration ceremony of Lord Ram across State

By E V Murli

At approximately 12:40 PM on Monday, the atmosphere in the maternal home of Shree Ram in Chhattisgarh was filled with festive joy as crackers burst and temple bells rang, creating an auspicious ambiance. When in Ayodhya, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with acharyas and pundits were participating in the Pran Pratishta Samaharoh of Shree Ram. The entire state of Chhattisgarh was adorned to welcome the consecration ceremony of Lord Ram, with enthusiastic participation in various rituals by the youth and women. Temples and other places witnessed cleaning, adorning, special hawan and puja archana in celebration of the occasion. The people’s representatives were also engaged in the rituals in their respective constituencies and meeting the people. Across the State, people expressed their joy in unique ways, organising Mahabhog and cultural events. Prem South Indian Idli vendor in sector 7, Bhilai, decided to distribute idli and dosa free of cost to celebrate consecration.

The market resembled another Diwali, with shops decorated in saffron festoons and flags. Potters and vendors of puja materials experienced a surge in sales for earthen diyas and flags. Laxmi, a potter in sector 6, Bhilai, mentioned increased demand due to the Prime Minister’s call for earthen lamps. Temples were adorned, and special Ramayan Katha recitals and Mahabhog distribution took place. At the Lord Ayyappa temple in sector 2, a special puja ritual for Lord Rama was performed. The temple committee had also arranged a live telecast of the Ayodhya ceremony on a digital screen.

Unusual for the time of year, individuals were selling firecrackers roadside. Youths in saffron attire, carrying flags and chanting slogans of Shree Ram, rode through the streets. Kalash yatras and processions marked the occasion at various locations. Even in unexpected places like petrol pumps and hospitals, the atmosphere resonated with devotion. Bollywood music was replaced with Ramdhun, and Ram bhajans played at a police petrol pump. The celebrations extended beyond Hinduism, with people of different faiths joining in. A pastor emphasised Lord Ram as a symbol of cultural and devotional prosperity, celebrated by all on January 22, making the day historic for future generations.