'Ram Temple Consecration Is A National Festival': CM Yogi Orders Holiday For Schools And Liquor Sale Ban On 22 January

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has said that the upcoming Ram Temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya, scheduled for 22 January, as a 'national festival'.

He has directed that all educational institutions across the state observe a holiday on this day.

Additionally, the sale of alcohol will be prohibited throughout Uttar Pradesh on the day of the ceremony.

"The consecration of the new idol of Shri Ramlala in Shri Ayodhya Dham is a 'national festival' for the entire nation. After centuries of waiting, this auspicious time has come," CM Yogi said in a post on social media platform X.

On this occasion, he also directed that all government buildings should be decorated.

The Chief Minister was in Ayodhya on Tuesday to oversee the final preparations for the grand ceremony.

This event is expected to witness the participation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and numerous other eminent personalities from various parts of the country.

The CM, who offered prayers to Ram Lalla and also visited Hanuman Gari temple in Ayodhya, reviewed development works and held a meeting with sadhus.

He also met Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust chairman Nritya Gopal Das.

"Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed to declare a holiday in educational institutions across the state on January 22, considering the emotional significance attached to the eagerly awaited consecration ceremony of the new idol of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya Dham. Terming this special occasion as a “national festival”, the Chief Minister has said that liquor shops in the state should remain shut on January 22,” an official spokesperson said, Indian Express reported.