New Delhi: The anticipation surrounding the upcoming 'Pran Pratistha' ceremony of Lord Ram Lalla in Ayodhya has been met with a significant decision from the Congress party. Describing the inauguration of the Ram Temple as an affair driven by the BJP and RSS, the Congress has respectfully declined the invitation to partake in the event.
According to Jairam Ramesh, the party's general secretary, senior Congress figures including Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury have opted to decline the invitation for the grand ceremony slated for later this month.
Ramesh, in a statement, highlighted, "Lord Ram holds immense reverence in our nation, but the BJP and RSS have consistently molded the temple in Ayodhya into a political venture. The timing of this incomplete temple's inauguration seems conspicuously aligned with electoral objectives. While upholding the 2019 Supreme Court verdict and respecting the sentiments of Lord Ram's devotees, our leaders have respectfully declined an invitation that appears overtly affiliated with the RSS/BJP."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to grace the installation of Ram Lalla's idol at the monumental temple on January 22. Temple authorities have outlined a seven-day ceremony, commencing on January 16, leading up to the significant 'Pran Pratistha' event.
Ayodhya is gearing up fervently for the inauguration, expected to draw dignitaries and individuals from various walks of life. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has set noon on January 22 for the enshrining of Ram Lalla at the temple's inner sanctum. Rituals will commence on January 16, a week ahead of the main ceremony, under the guidance of Varanasi's priest Lakshmi Kant Dixit.
The period from January 14 to January 22 will witness Ayodhya hosting the Amrit Mahotsav, celebrating the city's spiritual, historical, and cultural significance as the birthplace of Lord Rama.
—Input from Agencies