Ram Mandir Inauguration: Yogi Adityanath asserts Ayodhya to echo with bhajans, not curfews

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. (File photo)

Ahead of the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla scheduled for January 22, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced a transformative shift for the New Ayodhya, saying that curfews will no longer be in effect, predicting a harmonious atmosphere around 'Sankirtan' or the melodious rendition of devotional songs in reverence to Lord Ram. Highlighting a departure from the use of force, the CM emphasised a symbolic transition, stating that bullets will be replaced by the distribution of laddus to devotees of Ram.

Adityanath on January 16 conveyed these sentiments while commemorating the presentation of the specially crafted attire for Ram Lalla. The making of the intricately designed dress involved 12 lakh artisans from various corners of the country. Spearheaded by the Heritage Handweaving Revival Charitable Trust, this innovative initiative symbolises a collective spirit committed to the preservation and veneration of Ram Janmabhoomi.

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Addressing the the event hosted at the chief minister's house, Adityanath asserted that in India, no task is undertaken without invoking the name of Shri Ram.

Referring to the pran pratishtha (sanctification) of the Ram temple as the re-establishment of India’s public faith, Adityanath asserted that while some might term it as vote bank politics, and others may see it as an effort to appease certain sections of society, Ayodhya is, in fact, a matter of faith. He emphasised that Ayodhya represents a cultural unity to which the country has been bound by the legacies of Lord Ram and Shri Krishna.

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The CM mentioned that the government's responsibilities go beyond meeting the needs of devotees, recognising the expected surge in tourist numbers, reaching in the lakhs, following the consecration of the Ram temple on January 22. Highlighting Ayodhya as a city representing the faith of Sanatan Dharma, he unveiled plans to generate employment opportunities for thousands.

More significantly, Ayodhya is on track to become India's first solar city, with ongoing preparations for the introduction of a cruise service to enhance the city's charm and strengthen its infrastructure.

Adityanath highlighted that Ayodhya's Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 30, is rapidly expanding its connectivity to newer destinations.