Ram Navami 2024 LIVE Updates: ‘Surya Tilak Of Ram Lalla Is An Emotional Moment For Me’, Says PM Modi

People across India are celebrating Ram Navami with great fervor and enthusiasm on April 17, marking the last day of Chaitra Navratri. The occasion commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Rama, one of the most revered figures in Hinduism. This year’s celebration holds even greater significance as it follows the recent inauguration of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir in January. Thousands of devotees have flocked to Ayodhya to catch a glimpse of Ram Lalla and participate in the celebrations.

Ayodhya Ram Mandir Celebrations

The ‘Surya Abhishek’ ceremony of Lord Ram Lalla took place at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir around 12:15 pm. This special ritual involved the use of high-quality mirrors and lenses to direct sunlight onto the deity. This innovative method was achieved after four years of diligent effort by scientists.

Devotees visiting Ayodhya have had their visit timings extended till 11 pm on April 17, allowing them to partake in Mangala Aarti, Abhishek, Shringar, and Darshan during the celebrations.

Arun Yogiraj, the sculptor of the Ram Lalla idol in Ayodhya, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to witness the Surya Tilak, acknowledging the contributions of scientists in making it possible.

Devotees Gather to Celebrate

Devotees have expressed their appreciation for the smooth arrangements made by the administration, allowing them to have hassle-free darshan (sight) of Lord Ram. Elaborate preparations were made to accommodate the influx of pilgrims and maintain order during the festivities.

Political Commentary

Several political leaders have weighed in on the occasion. BJP leader Agnimitra Paul criticized the West Bengal government’s approach to religious processions, claiming that restrictions were being imposed on the Ram Navami Akhara procession, including limitations on the number of vehicles and the use of loud music. She accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of being “anti-Hindu” for her handling of such events.

Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha MP and BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi expressed concerns about the messaging from the opposition INDI alliance and accused Mamata Banerjee of undermining the festival of Ram Navami by implying the need for peacekeeping measures.

PM Narendra Modi’s Address

During a public rally in Agartala, Tripura, Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged the significance of Ram Navami, especially this year, as it marks the first time in 500 years that Lord Ram is ‘Virajman’ (enshrined) in Ayodhya’s temple.

Former Madhya Pradesh CM’s Statement

Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister and BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized the importance of Ram Navami, describing it as a day when Lord Ram represents India’s identity and essence. He noted that the country is celebrating the occasion with immense joy due to the presence of Ram Lalla in the new temple at his birthplace.

In summary, Ram Navami 2024 has been celebrated across India with grandeur and reverence, with special attention on the Ayodhya Ram Mandir and its iconic celebrations. The day has seen a mix of spiritual devotion, political commentary, and communal harmony as people from all walks of life came together to celebrate the birth of Lord Rama.