rAM TEMPLE :- AYODHYA RAM TEMPLE INAUGURATION SETS INDIA AGLOW IN DIWALI-LIKE CELEBRATIONS
The historic consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has ignited jubilant celebrations globally. From the lively streets of the USA and iconic landmarks in Paris to vibrant communities in Australia, Japan, Africa, and Nepal, the worldwide diaspora unites in commemorating this significant event. This narrative captures these diverse and joyous festivities that unfolded internationally, emphasizing the universal resonance of the Ayodhya Ram Temple consecration.
In the USA, celebrations span around 1,000 temples, featuring car rallies, including a major one in the Bay Area, California, and vibrant events in iconic locations like Times Square, New York. The Indian diaspora showcases cultural heritage through traditional attire, chants, and flag-bearing ceremonies, with VHP-America extending celebrations nationwide, including billboards in cities like Chicago and Los Angeles. The collaboration with Sony adds an extra touch as Srimad Ramayana is showcased in Times Square, highlighting the cultural and religious significance.
The UK witnessed the inauguration of festive jubilation by the Sanatan Sanstha, adding vibrancy to the House of Commons with resonant chants. In London, the Bhramrishi Mission Ashram hosted celebratory events on January 22, preceding the ‘Pran Pratistha’ ceremony in Ayodhya. The Indian community orchestrated a spirited car rally with over 325 cars, creating a memorable spectacle.
In Sydney, Australia, the Indian diaspora came together harmoniously for a dynamic rally involving over 100 cars and attracting a remarkable 5,000 people, reflecting unity and cultural exhilaration. A Ram Rath Yatra was scheduled in Paris, starting from Place de la Capelle to the Eiffel Tower, featuring devotional songs, cultural programs, and prasad distribution on January 21. The Indian community in France participated in the historic occasion, organizing a grand celebration at the Eiffel Tower.
The Janaki Temple in Nepal’s Janakpur was adorned with lights in anticipation of the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya on Monday. Janakpur, known as the in-laws’ home of Lord Ram, prepared for the celebration with enthusiasm, organizing Deepawali festivities that illuminated the city with decorative lights. The Chief Mahanth and Chotte Mahanth from Janakpur have been invited to the ceremony in Ayodhya. Earlier, Janakpur sent ritual offerings, including ornaments, cuisines, clothes, and daily essentials, known as Bhaar (offerings), to Ayodhya. The maternal home of Goddess Sita was also set to host various events on the day of Pran Pratistha, including Deepawali celebrations with artistic “Rangoli” made from colors and flowers. The city conducted a collection drive to light up approximately 250,000 oil-fed lamps, with over 2,500 litres of mustard oil already gathered for the Deepawali festivities on Monday evening. The Indian community in Japan virtually participated in witnessing the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, as shared by the Indian Embassy in Japan.
Swami Vigyananand announced plans for events, including a car rally, in several African countries, such as Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Mauritius, Ghana, Nigeria, and Mozambique. According to a statement in The Indian Express, he mentioned, “The VHP is spearheading these initiatives, but it has evolved into a program for the entire Hindu community. This marks a momentous occasion for Hindus globally, as their connections and roots trace back to India. Events in India resonate internationally, showcasing the interconnectedness of the Hindu community.”
From Thailand, the Ayodhya temple trust received symbolic offerings of soil and water from Ayutthaya for the consecration ceremony, and Hindu temples were gearing up to broadcast the live ceremony. The Thai version of the Ramayana, known as Ramakien, vividly illustrates the profound impact of Rama’s life on Thai culture. Ayutthaya, named after Ayodhya, boasts a cultural history steeped in richness and significance.
As joyous celebrations fill the air around the world, the consecration of Ram Mandir of Ayodhya stood out as a special moment. It wasn’t just celebrated by Hindus—it became a global and unique event, talked about from every corner of the world. It’s rare for the whole world to come together like this for one event.