Akshat Distribution Begins for Ayodhya Ram Temple Consecration, Ceremony Set for January 22

Ayodhya is gearing up for the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple, with the distribution of worshipped akshat (rice grains mixed with turmeric and ghee) commencing on New Years Day and continuing till January 15. The ceremony will take place on January 22 at 12:20 PM, and people across India are urged to celebrate the occasion as a festival.

In preparation for the upcoming consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, organizers have commenced the distribution of worshipped akshat, a mixture of rice grains, turmeric, and ghee, to devotees across the country. The distribution process, which started on New Year's Day, will continue until January 15, a week before the grand ceremony scheduled for January 22.

Consecration Ceremony Set for January 22

The general secretary of the Ram Temple Trust, Champat Rai, announced that the consecration ceremony, known as pran pratishtha, will take place at 12:20 pm on January 22. Rai urged people throughout India to celebrate the occasion as a festival, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent appeal to light special diyas in homes on that day.

Akshat Distribution Process

The akshat distribution process began with chantings of "Sita Ram" at the ancient temple of Bhagwan Mathgendra Ji, situated near the Ram temple site. Devotees received paper pouches containing the akshat, an image of the Ram temple bearing the trust's logo, a caption describing the structure, and a pamphlet with details about the temple.

Sadhus and Young Artistes Lead Procession

A group of sadhus, some carrying cards with the temple's image and others holding the akshat pouches, along with Champat Rai, participated in a procession to kick off the distribution process. Young artistes dressed as Lord Ram were also part of the procession, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Reaching Millions of Devotees

Through this initiative, the temple trust aims to reach nearly five lakh temples across the country, providing them with photos of the Ram temple and other details. Rai expressed their intention to reach approximately five crore people in India once the complete estimate is available.

Akshat Distribution by VHP and RSS

The akshat distribution ceremony is being carried out by individuals associated with the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and their allies. The trust's role is primarily focused on building the temple and serving as a guiding force.

Distribution to Continue Until Makar Sankranti

The distribution of akshat will continue until January 15, coinciding with the celebration of Makar Sankranti. Karyakartas, or volunteers, are visiting houses in villages and towns to distribute the akshat, spreading excitement and anticipation among the devotees.

Over a Lakh Devotees Expected

Ayodhya is expected to welcome over a lakh devotees for the consecration ceremony, with approximately 7,000 guests from India and abroad expected to attend. Prime Minister Modi is also scheduled to grace the occasion.

Pran Pratishtha and Celebrations

The pran pratishtha ceremony will take place at 12:20 pm, followed by aarti and distribution of prasad in neighboring colonies. Rai encouraged people to set up screens to gather in groups and watch the ceremony's broadcast on television. After sunset, devotees are urged to light diyas in their homes, as suggested by Prime Minister Modi.

Ram Temple Complex Details

The Ram temple complex, constructed in the traditional Nagara style, will be an impressive structure. It will span 380 feet in length from east to west, 250 feet in width, and 161 feet in height. Each floor of the temple will be 20 feet high, featuring a total of 392 pillars and 44 gates.