Introduction
The Ayodhya Ram Mandir, set to be inaugurated on January 22, 2024, is a monumental structure that holds great significance for the people of India. This grand temple, a blend of modern technology and ancient traditions, is the result of a long-standing legal battle over the disputed site that ended with the Supreme Court’s decision in 2019. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into various aspects of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, from its historical background to its impact on real estate.
Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Background
The roots of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir trace back to the construction of the Babri Masjid by Mughal emperor Babur in 1528-1529. However, after a prolonged legal battle, the Supreme Court declared the 2.77 acres of the disputed location as the birthplace of Lord Ram on November 9, 2019, paving the way for the temple’s construction.
Ayodhya Ram Mandir Foundation Stone-Laying Ceremony
Following the Supreme Court verdict, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted the Bhumi Poojan ceremony on August 5, 2020, marking the laying of the foundation stone for the temple.
Ayodhya Temple Area and Capacity
The sprawling temple complex spans 54,700 sq ft, covering nearly 2.7 acres of land. With a capacity to host approximately a million devotees at any given time, the entire Ram Mandir Complex spans nearly 70 acres.
Ayodhya Ram Temple: Agency Overseeing Construction
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is overseeing the construction of the temple, ensuring meticulous execution.
Ayodhya Mandir: Estimated Cost and Funding
The estimated cost for constructing the temple ranges between Rs 1,400 crore to Rs 1,800 crore. The temple trust has been receiving generous donations, with officials stating an influx of Rs 60-70 lakh for the grand project.
Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Building Material
The main structure will be crafted from the exquisite carved Rajasthan Bansi Paharpur stone, known for its beauty and strength. This sandstone, found in Bharatpur District, has received approval for mining, with a total requirement of 4 lakh sq ft for the temple’s construction.
Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Builders
The responsibility for building the main structure lies with Larsen & Toubro, while Tata Consultancy Engineers Ltd will develop the associated facilities.
Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Interior
Specifications
- The temple, designed by chief architect Chandrakant Bhai Sompura, is 360 ft long, 235 ft wide, and 161 ft high.
- The temple follows the Nagara style and Vastu Shastra principles, with Gopuram style entrance on the east.
- Artworks depicting the life of Lord Ram will adorn the walls.
Floors
- The temple features five domes and a tower with a height of 161 ft.
- The three-floor structure includes the Garbh Griha, Keertan Mandap, Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, and two Prarthana Mandaps.
Ram Lalla Idol
- Two idols of Lord Ram will be present, with one being the original idol found in 1949 and the other a 51-inch tall dark granite statue.
The Temple Bell
A 2,100-kg bell for the Ram Temple, costing Rs 21 lakh, is being sourced from Etah, a renowned destination for bell manufacturing in India.
Doors and Windows
Teak wood (Sagwan) from Maharashtra’s Chandrapur, known for its longevity of over 100 years, is being used for the doors and windows.
Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Lifespan
Constructed with a focus on longevity, the temple is designed to last over 1,000 years. Rigorous testing by institutes like IIT Chennai and Central Research Building Institute ensures durability.
Number of Pilgrims to Ayodhya Ram Mandir
Over 50,000 people visit the temple daily, and this number is expected to double to 100,000 after the inauguration.
Ayodhya Ram Mandir Darshan Timing
- Sunday to Saturday:
- Morning: 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM
- Evening: 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Ayodhya Ram Mandir Morning Aarti (Shiringar Aarti) Timing
- Sunday to Saturday: 6:30 AM
Ayodhya Ram Mandir Evening Aarti (Sandhya Aarti) Timing
- Sunday to Saturday: 7:30 PM
Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Timeline
- 1528-1529: Mughal emperor Babur builds Babri Masjid
- 1850s: Communal violence over the land begins
- 1949: Ram Idol found inside the mosque, intensifying tension
- 1950: Two suits filed seeking permission to worship the idol
- 1961: UP Sunni Central Wakf Board demands the idol’s removal
- 1986: District Court opens the site for Hindu worshippers
- 1992: Babri Masjid demolished on December 6
- 2010: Allahabad HC rules three-way division of disputed area
- 2011: SC stays Allahabad HC order
- 2016: Subramanian Swamy files plea in SC, seeking temple construction
- 2019: SC accepts Ayodhya as Lord Ram’s birthplace, allocates land to the trust
- 2020: PM Modi performs Bhumi Poojan and lays the foundation stone
How to Reach Ayodhya
By Air
Book flights to Ayodhya Airport from major Indian cities, conveniently connected to the city center via taxi and auto-rickshaws.
By Road
Well-connected by road to nearby cities, hire a taxi or use public transportation like buses.
By Train
The nearest major railway station is Ayodhya Junction, around 6-8 km from the city center.
Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Impact on Real Estate
The construction of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir has significantly impacted real estate in and around Ayodhya. Land rates have surged up to 10 times in the past decade, attracting interest from big developers. The city has witnessed a transformation, with rates comparable to the state capital Lucknow. Commercial plots start at Rs 4,000 per sq ft, reaching up to Rs 20,000 per sq ft in some areas.
Night View of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir
As of January 8, a captivating night view of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir showcases the grandeur of this cultural and religious landmark.
In conclusion, the Ayodhya Ram Mandir stands as a symbol of cultural heritage, architectural brilliance, and religious significance, set to captivate the hearts of millions as it opens its doors to devotees from January 24, 2024.
Amarkant Patel