The Bhavya Ram Mandir inauguration positions Ayodhya as a global religious and tourism hub
The inauguration of the Bhavya Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024, signifies a historic milestone, drawing dignitaries, religious fervour, and global attention. The ceremony not only cemented Ayodhya as a religious destination but also signalled its emergence as a cultural hub with vast tourism potential.
On January 22, 2024, the Bhavya Ram Mandir in Ayodhya hosted a momentous inaugural ceremony, drawing over 7,000 distinguished personalities from various sectors nationwide. Special invitees to the event included notable figures such as Amitabh Bachchan, Mukesh Ambani, Gautam Adani, Anil Agrawal, and Sachin Tendulkar. The focal point of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony was the 51-inch idol of Ram Lalla, meticulously sculpted by Arun Yogiraj of Mysuru.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi played a pivotal role in this historic occasion, conducting the Pran Pratistha of Ram Lalla, marking the culmination of the 11day anushthan (ritual). The ceremonies were attended by notable figures, including Mohan Bhagwat, the RSS Chief; Anandiben Patel, the UP Governor; and Yogi Adityanath, the CM of Uttar Pradesh. The grandeur was enhanced by army helicopters showering flower petals on the temple grounds.
Ayodhya was enveloped in a joyous atmosphere as chanting Hindu devotees adorned the streets with saffron flags featuring images of Lord Ram, complemented by marigolds. Banners displaying the faces of Lord Ram, the Prime Minister, and the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh were added to the festive display. In numerous northern cities, Hindus illuminated lamps, while rooftops displayed saffron flags depicting Ram's images. Cinemas broadcasted the event, and large screens relayed Ayodhya's images to town squares and residential neighbourhoods. Celebrations extended globally - Times Square in New York was adorned with massive billboards of Lord Ram, attracting devotees despite the freezing weather. In the United Kingdom, where Indians form a substantial diaspora, temples marked the occasion with colourful posters inviting devotees to partake in festivities involving flowers, sweets, and music. Even in Muslim-majority Dubai, celebrations unfolded, acknowledging the significant Indian population.
Beyond the cultural and spiritual significance of the Ram Mandir, the ceremony spotlighted Ayodhya's potential as a central hub for Uttar Pradesh's tourismdriven economic growth. Local businesses are seizing the opportunity, with 600 paying guest facilities registered and certificates issued for 441. Anticipating 2,500 paying guest rooms, Ayodhya's tourism strategy has embraced homestays, enhanced cultural immersion, and fostered sustainable practices for local economic empowerment.
Ayodhya's evolution into a tourism hub is backed by a holistic plan that includes incorporating an airport and enhancing railway and bus connectivity. These initiatives guarantee effortless access for tourists, both national and international. Strategic infrastructure, accommodations, and amenity development in Ayodhya further enhance the overall tourist experience.
The city, with its cultural and spiritual significance, attracts a substantial influx of visitors. Notable tourist sites include Shri Ram Janmabhoomi, Nageshwar Nath Temple, Deokaali, Ram Ki Paidi, Hanuman Garhi, Birla Temple, Kanak Bhawan, Gulab Bari, and Jain Shwetamber Temple. Mukesh Kumar Meshram, Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture, emphasised the pivotal role of tourism in fostering economic development, focusing on the growth potential of rural homestays. Ayodhya, with its rich cultural heritage, is poised to take centre stage in the state's tourism economy through strategic improvements in connectivity and infrastructure.