PM Modi Initiates 11-Day Ritual Ahead of Ayodhya's Ram Temple Ceremony

HYDERABAD: Preparing for the 'Pran Prathistha' of the Ram Lalla idol at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday started a rigorous 11-day religious observance that prescribes several austere measures, including yoga, meditation and discipline in various aspects,  leading up to the consecration on January 22.

Expressing his deep connection to the event, Modi acknowledged that the realisation of a longstanding dream was a momentous occasion. “I am emotional. I am overwhelmed with emotions. For the first time in life, I am experiencing such feelings,” said Modi in an audio message.

Modi said the sanctity of the occasion for all Indians and Lord Rama’s devotees, who look forward to the consecration ceremony, can only be experienced, and he was not able to articulate with words the depth, expanse, and intensity of the feelings.

Describing it as a sacred duty and considering himself fortunate to witness this event, the Prime Minister underscored that God has chosen him to represent all Indians during the 'Pran Pratishtha' exercise.

He highlighted the rigorous guidelines laid down in scriptures for the 'Pran Pratishtha' and mentioned that he was following them based on guidance received from eminent spiritual leaders.

“I seek blessing from people,” he said on X.

Commencing the rituals at Dham-Panchvati in Nashik, where Lord Rama is believed to have spent a signifant amount of time, Modi noted the symbolic alignment of the event with the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.

He credited the spiritual guru for igniting the soul of the nation, with the self-confidence he emphasised is now manifesting in the form of the grand Ram temple.

On the occasion of Jijabai's birth anniversary, the mother of Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji, Modi remembered his own mother, who continued to chant ‘Sita Ram’ until the end of her life.

He said that the hearts of 140 crore Indians and the memories of countless individuals dedicated to the construction of the Ram temple would be with him on January 22.

Asserting the divinity of the masses, Modi recognised their blessings as a source of renewed energy and urged them to share their views and blessings with him during this auspicious time.

Modi said the scriptures lay down strict and arduous guidelines for people to follow for the 'Pran Pratishtha'. He was starting the special observance on the guidelines he had received from eminent people on his spiritual journey.

Officials said Modi has decided to strictly follow all instructions laid down in scriptures despite his busy engagements and responsibilities.

They said Modi follows many of these disciplines, including waking up during an auspicious time before sunrise, meditation and consuming 'satvik' food, in his daily life, they said.