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The first anniversary of the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir was celebrated with significant fervor in both Janakpur, Nepal, and Ayodhya, India. In Janakpur, the historic city renowned for its connection to Sita, the wife of Lord Ram, the Dhanusha chapter of Bishwo Hindu Parisad Nepal orchestrated a spectacular display of devotion. A breathtaking 1.25 lakh lamps illuminated the city, transforming the night into a radiant spectacle of faith and commemoration. This luminous tribute underscored the deep-seated religious and cultural ties between Janakpur and Ayodhya, highlighting the shared reverence for Lord Ram and the significance of the Ram Mandir. The event, meticulously planned and executed by the youth wing of Bishwo Hindu Parisad Nepal, the Janaki Sena, showcased a vibrant tapestry of traditional Hindu rituals and celebrations.
The festivities in Janakpur were far from a simple lighting ceremony. They encompassed a range of traditional events, enriching the religious observance. A Jhaki, a vibrant procession typically featuring elaborate floats and dancers depicting religious narratives, added a dynamic visual element to the celebrations. Hawan, a sacred fire ritual, purified the atmosphere and invoked blessings. The Ganga Aarti, a devotional ceremony involving the ritualistic worship of the Ganga river, added a poignant element of reverence and purification. Finally, the intricate rangoli, a colourful and symbolic floor decoration made from coloured powders, further enhanced the aesthetic beauty and spiritual significance of the occasion. Ashutosh Jha, the national spokesperson of Janaki Sena, emphasized the continuity of these celebrations, highlighting the repetition of similar events from the previous year, demonstrating the sustained importance of this commemoration.
The celebrations weren't confined to Janakpur alone. In Ayodhya, the epicentre of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, the first anniversary was marked with equal solemnity and grandeur. The Mahabhishek, a grand ritualistic bath for the deity, was performed at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, marking a central event of the anniversary. The day's events followed a meticulously planned schedule, reflecting the deep-rooted traditions and meticulous planning associated with such significant religious observances. The day commenced with Agnihotra, a sacred fire ritual involving mantras from the Shukla Yajurveda, repeated twice during the day. This was followed by the chanting of 6 lakh Shri Ram Mantras, demonstrating the sheer scale of devotional participation. The Ram Raksha Stotra and Hanuman Chalisa, revered devotional hymns, were also recited, further emphasizing the spiritual depth and breadth of the celebrations.
The events at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple provided a kaleidoscope of devotional activities. 'Rag Seva,' a musical performance, was held in the afternoon, followed by a celebratory song. Musical recitations of the Manas, the epic poem narrating the story of Lord Ram, took place on the first floor of the passenger convenience centre, making the devotional experience readily accessible to a wider audience. This layered approach ensured that the celebrations catered to diverse preferences while maintaining a unified theme of devotion and celebration. The sheer scale of participation both in Ayodhya and Janakpur highlighted the immense national and international significance of the Ram Mandir and the profound impact of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony on the Hindu community.
The convergence of events in both Janakpur and Ayodhya underscores the trans-national and trans-regional significance of the Ram Mandir and the shared religious sentiments that bind these two cities. The enthusiasm expressed by Ram Tapeshwor Das, Chief Mahant of the Janaki Temple, reflecting the collective joy and excitement of the residents of Janakpur and Mithila, powerfully communicates the far-reaching emotional impact of the anniversary. The large-scale participation and the detailed nature of the celebrations in both locations signal the Ram Mandir's symbolic significance beyond mere religious devotion, it serves as a potent symbol of cultural identity, national pride and spiritual connection for millions.
The article also provides a glimpse into the ongoing construction of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, emphasizing the rapid progress and the expected completion within the first six months of 2025. This information situates the anniversary celebrations within the broader context of the ongoing construction project, highlighting the anticipation and excitement surrounding the completion of this monumental undertaking. The reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's inauguration of the temple in 2024 and the large number of devotees who visited the temple on New Year's Day further emphasize the temple's immense religious and cultural significance for India.
In conclusion, the celebrations surrounding the first anniversary of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir transcended geographical boundaries, bringing together Janakpur and Ayodhya in a shared expression of faith, devotion, and cultural unity. The grand scale of the events in both cities, the detailed descriptions of the rituals, and the statements from religious leaders all combine to paint a vivid picture of a deeply significant religious and cultural event with far-reaching consequences and symbolic power. The article successfully demonstrates the profound emotional resonance and lasting impact of this religious event on the broader Hindu community and beyond.