In a magnificent display of craftsmanship and devotion, the Ram Temple in Ayodhya stands tall as a testament to Indian tradition and architectural marvel. Designed by renowned architect Chandrakant B Sompura and his son Ashish, this temple combines ancient temple-building styles with modern technology. What makes it even more remarkable is the fact that it has been constructed without the use of steel or iron, following the traditional Nagara style. Today, the long-awaited unveiling of the idol will take place, marking a significant milestone in the history of this sacred place. The Ram Temple in Ayodhya is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Indian traditional heritage. The temple was designed by renowned architect Chandrakant B Sompura and his son Ashish, who combined ancient temple-building styles with modern technology. Situated on 2.7 acres of land, the grand structure stands tall at 161 feet and boasts a width of 235 feet. It stretches to a total length of 360 feet, making it an impressive sight to behold. Following Vedic rituals, the temple features a sanctum sanctorum, five shikharas, 300 pillars, and 44 teak doors. It has a built-up area of 57,000 square feet and spans three floors. In fact, its height is about 70% of the iconic Qutab Minar. One remarkable aspect of the temple is the use of two lakh bricks, each inscribed with Lord Ram’s name in different languages. This showcases the inclusivity and diversity of Indian culture. The sanctum sanctorum, where the deity is housed, is adorned with Makrana marble, the same exquisite stone used for the construction of the Taj Mahal. The absence of iron or steel in the temple’s construction aligns with the traditional Nagara style. To ensure durability, granite, sandstone, and marble were utilized, along with a lock and key mechanism. The construction of the temple was a collaborative effort, with contributions from Indian scientists, including those from ISRO and the Central Building Research Institute. The ceremonial anointment of Lord Ram will be carried out using a special ‘Surya Tilak’ mirror, designed by scientists from CBRI and IIA. This reflects the integration of ancient traditions with modern innovations. What’s truly impressive is that the entire construction of the temple was completed without the use of steel or iron. This traditional practice is expected to give the temple a lifespan of up to 1,000 years. Ahead of the consecration of the Ram Temple, elaborate rituals were performed. The idol was adorned with flowers from various parts of the country, symbolizing the unity of the nation. The sanctum sanctorum was cleansed with water from 81 urns, sourced from religious places and rivers across India. This sacred act signifies the sanctification and purification of the temple. Finally, the old idol at the makeshift temple, known as “Ram Lalla Virajman,” will be moved to the sanctum sanctorum on Sunday evening. Rituals such as Shakradhivas, Phaladhivas, and Pushpadhivas have taken place, offering the idol sugar, sweets, fruits, and flowers. The completion of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is an important milestone in India’s cultural and religious history. It stands as a testament to the nation’s rich heritage and the devotion of millions of believers.
