Ayodhya Ram Temple flag hoisting marks spiritual resurgence of India, says UP CM Yogi
LUCKNOW: Adityanath said the completion of the Ayodhya Ram Temple construction was not the end of a yajna but the addition of another chapter in the spiritual history of the country. While welcoming the dignitaries, including PM Narendra Modi, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and others, the UP CM emphasised that the grand temple of Lord Shri Ram reflected the faith, honour, and self-respect of 1.4 billion Indians. PM Modi, prior to raising the flag on top of the flagpole constructed in the traditional North Indian Nagara architectural style, visited all other temples on the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi premises. The surrounding 800-metre Parkota, a circumambulatory enclosure built around the temple in the South Indian architectural tradition, reflects the temple's architectural diversity. He offered prayers at the temples of Maharshi Vashishtha, Maharshi Vishwamitra, Maharshi Agastya, Maharshi Valmiki, Devi Ahilya, Nishadraj Guha and Mata Shabari.He also visited the Sheshavtar Mandir and offered puja at Mata Annapurna Mandir. The PM also took darshan and pooja at Ram Darbar Garbh Grah followed by darshan at Ram Lalla Garbha Grah. Yogi, extending heartfelt congratulations to the karmayogis whose dedication made the construction of the temple possible in such a short duration, recalled centuries-long struggle saying: Although dynasties and generations changed over time, unwavering faith remained constant. It may be recalled that after the Supreme Courts order settling the vexed Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute on November 9, 2019, PM Modi had laid the foundation of the temple on August 5, 2020 following which temple construction commenced. The temple was opened for people with the consecration of Ram Lalla in sanctum sanctorum of the temple in a glittering ceremony on January 22, 2024. CM Yogi Adityanath dedicated the momentous day to the saints, devotees, and warriors of temple movement who sacrificed their lives to see the temple in Ayodhya. He said: Ayodhya has entered a new era, one that harmonizes heritage with modernity. With improved infrastructure, including the 84 Kosi Parikrama, Dharmapath, Rampath, Bhaktipath, and Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya is transforming into a global centre of faith, culture, and sustainable development. Today, it stands as Indias first solar and sustainable smart city, a symbol of national pride and spiritual resurgence. He said that raising the flag on top of the temple reflected the eternal light of righteousness and the timeless ideals of Ram Rajya. Yogi said: When Prime Minister Modi assumed office in 2014, a new spirit of possibility and determination was rekindled across India. The long-awaited dream of millions has now been realized in the form of a magnificent temple, an embodiment of devotion and perseverance. The saffron flag flying high above the temple signifies faith, dignity, truth, justice, nationalism, and the aspiration for a Viksit Bharat. Highlighting the nations progress, he said that Indias transformation over the last 11 years had been remarkable. Development and heritage were moving hand in hand, enabling the country to rise to new heights. 'Centuries-old wounds are healing', says PM Modi after hoisting saffron flag at Ayodhya Ram temple