CIHS – Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies

Date/Time:

Bhagwan Ram Temple: A sneak peek at its marvellous features

As January 22 gets closer, the excitement of Bhagwan Ram worshipers is also intensifying. Individuals inside and outside the country look forward to the magnificent ceremony in Ayodhya as they identify themselves with Bhagwan Ram’s values and principles. This much-anticipated Pran Pratistha ceremony is a religious emblem and a work of architectural and environmental excellence. Shri Ram Tirtha Kshetra Trust has unveiled a map of the 70-acre complex, providing enthusiasts with a full grasp of the precise planning that went into the temple’s layout, architecture, and construction. Architectural Marvel: The temple’s construction is designed carefully, considering ancient Indian architecture. Although the temple is grand in terms of area, it is also ready to guide coming generations by embracing the cultural heritage of India with equal grandeur. The temple is a tall structure consisting of three floors, each measuring 20 feet in height, 250 feet in width, and 380 feet in length from east to west. The structure stands at a towering height of 161 feet and has a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors, all meticulously crafted in the old Nagara architectural style. Worshippers will enter the temple from the east, ascending 32 steps through the Singh Dwar (Gate), and will exit through the south side. Significance of Percota: Upon entering the temple, devotees will immediately sense a profound religious ambience. Every pillar and space within the temple has been meticulously designed with minute detailing, ensuring a spiritual experience for devotees. With 732-metre-long and 14-feet-wide Percota, enhancing its aesthetic appeal, the temple’s corners have been dedicated to the Sun God, Maa Bhagwati, Bhagwan Ganesha, and Bhagwan Shiv. A separate temple dedicated to Bhagwan Hanuman, who provided unwavering loyalty to Bhagwan Ram, will be situated in the northern side & another temple adorned with Mata Annapurna on the Southern side of the temple compound, with a touch of spiritual profundity. Intricate inclusion within the complex: The journey of becoming Maryada Purushottam Bhagwan Ram was not accomplished by sole efforts. According to the epic Ramayana, Bhagwan Ram’s exile to the forest, abduction of Mata Sita, Ravana’s death, and his return to Ayodhya after 14 years, he received invaluable assistance from numerous souls whose contribution remains indelible. Accordingly, the primary temple complex would include temples devoted to Rishi Valmiki, Rishi Vashishtha, Rishi Vishwamitra, Rishi Agastya, King Nishad, Mata Shabari, and Mata Ahilya. This intricate inclusion pays homage to the rich fabric of Hindu history and spirituality. Pilgrim facilities and environmental sustainability: In addition to its role as a spiritual centre, the temple complex also holds significant cultural value for devotees of Bhagwan Ram. A convenience centre is being developed to facilitate the needs of all pilgrims visiting for Bhagwan Ram’s darshan. This centre will have the capacity to house the necessary belongings of 25 thousand pilgrims, assuring visitors a smooth and hassle-free experience. A hospital located on the premises offers medical treatment for health conditions. Furthermore, the amenities encompass a spacious restroom facility, two sewage treatment plants, a water purification facility, and a dedicated electricity supply line. A fire brigade station is dedicated to maintaining stable groundwater levels by extracting water from an underground reservoir. This holistic approach to infrastructure development is linked to the vision of creating a sustainable and eco-friendly campus. Cultural preservation: The endeavour is commendable as the construction is completely focused on Indian culture and indigenous technology with strong emphasis on sustainable water conservation. The temple complex prominently showcases ancient trees, with 70 percent of the 70-acre space covered with lush greenery. This seamless traditional integration and contemporary elements establishes a model for future architectural endeavours. Bhagwan Ram Temple in Ayodhya is not merely a religious structure but evidence of exceptional architectural competence, meticulous aesthetics, and an unwavering dedication to environmental sustainability. As the Pran Pratishtha approaches, the temple’s unveiling will symbolise a significant spiritual milestone and showcase India’s cultural legacy and commitment to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

Read More

Ram Mandir Saga: Unraveling Bharat’s Timeless Cultural Heritage

In heart of Ayodhya, where history and spirituality intertwine, a monumental transformation has emerged — one that symbolizes unity, reconciliation and the shared cultural heritage of a diverse nation. The Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Maryada Purshottam Lord Shree Ram Mandir on the Janmabhoomi is set to be held on January 22, 2023. Rohan Giri Protracted and arduous journey in the run up to construct a grand temple for Lord Shree Ram is a testament to resilience and maturity of Bharatiya people that seek to build a future on understanding and mutual respect. This grand temple and consecration of Lord Ram scheduled for January 22 next year symbolizes national unity, reminding us that, despite our differences, we share common history and rich cultural roots. Construction of Ram Mandir has paved the way for a new era of inclusivity in Bharat. The project concerned reconstructing a magnificent temple, healing wounds and fostering a sense of belonging among all communities. The site has been transformed into a symbol of shared heritage, inviting people from all walks of life to come together and celebrate Bharat’s cultural mosaic. Before delving into the ongoing construction of Ram mandir in Ayodhya, we must acquaint ourselves with a timeless story that transcends epochs, echoing the collective heartbeat of a nation. The saga unfolds in Treta Yuga, as Ayodhya etches its indelible mark in the historical scrolls as the majestic capital of Ikshvaku dynasty. Under the reign of King Dasarath, the city witnessed birth of Bhagwan Shree Ram, the paragon of virtue. Ayodhya’s historical roots delve into the ancient scriptures of Ramayana and Skanda Purana, narrating the story of the birth of revered Shree Ram. Hindu epic Ramayana tells the saga of Shree Ram’s exile, the abduction of mata Sita, and his triumphant return to Ayodhya. As time unfolded into Dvapara Yuga, Ram mandir persisted as symbol of reverence, preserving the legacy of Lord Ram and the ideals he embodied. Although this age was characterized by advent of Lord Krishna, the sanctity of Ayodhya and Ram mandir endured as a revered pilgrimage site. In the contemporary era, identified as the Kali Yuga, the narrative of Ram Janmabhoomi faced formidable challenges with the advent of Islamic rulers, marking the onset of a chapter rife with destruction and radical change. The construction of the Babri Mosque atop the Ram Mandir by Mir Baqi during Babur’s reign brought about a profound alteration in the city’s landscape, giving rise to a complex juxtaposition of faiths that would unfold and resonate over centuries. In the period of Mughal invaders, Bharat harboured a multitude of temples, nearly all of which were meticulously targeted, demolished, and subsequently replaced with new or Islamic religious structures. Many temples, their historical significance now erased, serve as silent witnesses to this tumultuous period. A current national debate centres on Ram Janmabhoomi and Krishna Janmabhoomi, as they are the most revered deities in Bharat. In Hindu Dharma, temples hold profound significance, serving as centres of divine spiritual devotion, worship and as sources of culture, traditions, music, dance, education, architecture, food, yoga, meditation, and medicine. Presently, a significant majority of Bharatiyas are advocating for restoration of these heritage sites, which suffered demolition during invasions, emphasizing the necessity for redevelopment. Additionally, there is a growing call for the establishment of proper maintenance mechanisms for the most significant temples, especially those in remote areas. Centuries later, after a 134-year-long cultural, historical, and civilizational legal battle, the essence of Ayodhya was reaffirmed in the Supreme Court’s unanimous verdict in 2019. This landmark decision rested on concrete evidence rather than mere faith, marking a significant moment in the sacred land’s enduring journey. The decision paved the way for the construction of the Ram Mandir, a symbol of hope and unity for millions of devotees globally. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s auspicious pooja on August 5, 2020, marked the official commencement of the Mandir’s construction—a moment etched in the annals of history. Historical turbulence notwithstanding, Ayodhya’s spirit endured, transcending borders and resonating globally. Devotion for Bhagwan Ram extends beyond Bharat, with Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Indonesia, and other nations expressing reverence for Ayodhya’s cultural significance. The Pran Pratishtha, consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir stands as a poignant reminder of the shared values that unite the people of Bharat. The Mandir’s grandeur symbolizes deep devotion to Lord Ram and represents a collective determination to transcend historical grievances and welcome a future marked by shared prosperity. Ayodhya holds a sacred place alongside Mathura and Haridwar, encapsulating the cultural and spiritual essence of Sanatan Dharma. (Rohan is a journalism graduate from Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) New Delhi, and Manager Operations at CIHS.)

Read More