Culture

In Pictures: How Ayodhya's Essence Was Felt Across Delhi In Joyous Celebrations

Ankit Saxena

Jan 23, 2024, 01:57 PM | Updated 01:57 PM IST


Diwali-like celebrations occurred across the country to mark the consecration of Ramlalla in Ayodhya.
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.

While the Ram Janmabhoomi temple could open its doors to a select few visitors and locals to experience the sacred consecration of Ramlalla, devotees in other cities also hosted lively celebrations in local temples to welcome their divine lord.

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.”

Ab bus, Ramlalla ke darshan karne ka intezar hai, Ayodhya mein.” he said, while adding that he plans to reach Ayodhya also on foot.

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.

Karan and his brother.
Karan and his brother.
Devotees gathered at the Hanuman Temple in Delhi, giving their respect as the consecration of Ram Lalla got completed.
Devotees gathered at the Hanuman Temple in Delhi, giving their respect as the consecration of Ram Lalla got completed.
Marketplaces organised collective screenings of the event.
Marketplaces organised collective screenings of the event.

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.

Many colonies have been in preparation since a week as the momentous day was approaching. Markets were adorned with flags and posters, while temples were decked out in preparation for havan and bhandara.

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.”

Temples getting ready on the eve of the consecration.
Temples getting ready on the eve of the consecration.
Rameshwar ji and his sahayaks preparing for the havan.
Rameshwar ji and his sahayaks preparing for the havan.
Another marketplace on the eve of consecration.
Another marketplace on the eve of consecration.

People of all age groups were seen to be gathered around in celebrations. Several children were seen dressed up as characters from the Ram katha, adding a delightful touch to the events.

The young sena.
The young sena.

Families celebrating expressed, “this joyous moment is not just for us but also for our children. This wish coming true has created a sense of belief in our lord, and the teachings of the Ramayan, for the kids, and for the next generations to come.”

A laser show showing the Ram katha, organised on the eve of the consecration.
A laser show showing the Ram katha, organised on the eve of the consecration.
Another marketplace on the eve of consecration.
Another marketplace on the eve of consecration.

The day was filled with such celebrations, bhajans, chants all across cities, the evening was set for large deepotsavs arranged at almost all temples.  

Deepotsav organised in the evening of 22 January.
Deepotsav organised in the evening of 22 January.
Deepotsav organised in the evening of 22 January.
Deepotsav organised in the evening of 22 January.

Such massive celebrations, echoing the essence of Ayodhya in other cities, provided people with a means for collective rejoicing.

While several labelled it as a political event, devotees’ spirit has given a contrasting sense of togetherness and divinity, ensuring that the religious sentiment remains alive.


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