Ayodhya, the sacred city revered as the birthplace of Lord Rama, is poised for a month-long celebration of the Ramkatha Festival, an epic narration of the Ramayana. Initiated on January 8th, the festival will extend until March 24th, featuring renowned spiritual figures recounting the timeless tale of Lord Rama’s life and teachings.
Organized by the Culture Department under the guidance of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, this grand event aims to immerse devotees in the essence of the Ramayana and provide a platform for spiritual enlightenment. The festival’s venue is the Kagbhusundi stage within the picturesque Ramkatha Park, offering a serene setting for sermons and lectures.
The opening seven days of the festival will witness the esteemed Chinmayanand Bapu captivating the audience with his storytelling prowess. He will bring to life various key events from the Ramayana, commencing with the pious life of King Dasharatha and concluding with the joyous wedding ceremony of Lord Rama and Sita. Each day will focus on specific episodes, including the birth of Rama, his childhood adventures, the pivotal bow-breaking ceremony, and the divine union of Rama and Sita.
Following Chinmayanand Bapu’s seven-day recital, other renowned Katha Vyas will take the stage, offering their unique perspectives on the Ramayana. Starting from January 15th, spiritual leaders like Mahant Devkinandan Thakur ji of Mathura will continue the storytelling, ensuring that the wisdom and inspiration of the Ramayana resonate throughout the month.
A significant highlight scheduled for January 22 is the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the new idol of Ram Lalla at the sanctum sanctorum of the upcoming Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to perform this ceremony, and he has urged citizens to light a ‘Shri Ram Jyoti’ in their homes and celebrate Deepavali on January 22.
The historic inauguration of the Ram Temple on January 22 has sparked extensive preparations, drawing dignitaries and people from all walks of life. The Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirath Kshetra Trust has decided to enthrone Ram Lalla at the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram Temple at noon on January 22.
Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, holds immense spiritual, historical, and cultural significance for the people of India. The Ramkatha Festival stands as a testament to the enduring cultural heritage and devotion surrounding the epic saga of the Ramayana.