Culture
Diwali-like celebrations occurred across the country to mark the consecration of Ramlalla in Ayodhya.
As Ayodhya Nagri illuminated at its brightest, with Ramlalla’s return to his birthplace after 500 years, millions across the country also came together for this profound experience and to show their devotion through community celebrations.
The temple town had set the stage for grand celebrations, cities like Delhi, also had its atmosphere pulsating similar devotion and spiritual energy. The festivities included vibrant decorations, religious processions, bhandara (community feasts), havan and other anushthans.
Karan Suri walked nearly 15 kilometres to reach the Delhi’s iconic Hanuman temple, for experiencing and celebrating the consecration ceremony being screened at the temple premises.
He said, “this is a new beginning for all of us. Me and my entire family are grateful to be present at this moment to witness this divine moment.”
People in thousands gathered at temples to experience this divine celebration, which were filled with chants of “Jai Shri Ram”, creating a sacred melody that wafted through the air.
Beyond the bigger temples, residential colonies and marketplaces, were another sight to see, as communities came together to maintain the festive atmosphere, ensuring that the essence of Ayodhya was not lost.
Roads, typically packed on a regular working day, were empty, as most were gathering to celebrate the occasion in their localities.
Pandit Rameshwar Prasad Tripathi, mahanth of a temple in central Delhi, said, “we have organised Ramayan path on the eve of the consecration. After this there will be a bhog and havan. All devotees have decided to gather at the temple and watch the live event from Ayodhya together.”
Such massive celebrations, echoing the essence of Ayodhya in other cities, provided people with a means for collective rejoicing.