Ayodhya, the spiritual hub and birthplace of Lord Ram, is bracing for an unprecedented influx of devotees during January and February 2025. With the Maha Kumbh-2025 in Prayagraj expected to draw over 25 crore people, approximately 10 per cent of these pilgrims are anticipated to visit Ayodhya to seek blessings of Ram Lalla. This massive gathering highlights the deep spiritual connection devotees feel between Prayagraj and Ayodhya.
Peak Pilgrim Season and Key Dates
The Ayodhya Municipal Corporation estimates that between January 13 (Paush Poornima) and February 12 (Maghi Poornima), the temple town will host around 2.5 crore devotees. According to Ayodhya Mayor Girish Pati Tripathi, the daily footfall currently ranges between 1.5 to 2 lakh people, with a peak of 3 to 5 lakh visitors expected on New Year’s Day alone.
“The Maha Kumbh is likely to witness 25 crore attendees, and we believe around 2.5 crore to 3 crore of them will extend their pilgrimage to Ayodhya during this period,” Tripathi stated, underscoring the religious significance of visiting Lord Ram’s abode after participating in the Maha Kumbh rituals.
Preparations in Full Swing
The Ayodhya administration has taken comprehensive steps to ensure a seamless experience for pilgrims amidst the expected surge. Measures include:
- Tent City Proposal: A proposal has been sent to the tourism department to establish a Tent City with a capacity to accommodate 5,000 people, offering shelter and basic amenities to devotees.
- Temporary Rain Baseras: Additional shelter homes have been set up across the town to provide relief to pilgrims, especially during the region’s prevailing cold weather conditions.
- Bonfires for Warmth: To combat the chill, arrangements for bonfires have been made at multiple locations to keep devotees comfortable.
“We hope these arrangements will help us effectively manage the challenges posed by the cold weather and large crowds,” Tripathi assured.
The Maha Kumbh-2025, scheduled from January 13 to February 26 in Prayagraj, is a grand spiritual gathering that revolves around taking a dip at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers. As Ashutosh Varshney, the convenor of Raam Naam Bank, explained, the bathing ritual at the Maha Kumbh is regarded as one of the most sacred acts in Hinduism.
“Pilgrims view a visit to Ayodhya and a glimpse of Lord Ram after the Maha Kumbh rituals as a truly divine experience,” Varshney added, reflecting the interconnectedness of the two holy sites.
Ayodhya’s Appeal Beyond Maha Kumbh
Apart from its religious significance, Ayodhya’s meticulously planned infrastructure, serene ghats, and spiritual ambience have elevated its status as a must-visit destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. The upcoming influx during the Maha Kumbh season will further cement its reputation as a spiritual powerhouse.
As Ayodhya prepares to welcome millions of devotees, the efforts of the administration ensure that this monumental gathering is marked by devotion, organisation, and comfort for all. For those seeking spiritual solace and divine blessings, Ayodhya promises to be an unforgettable experience in early 2025.
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