Ayodhya Ram Temple: Salient Features
Description
Ayodhya Ram Temple
Welcome to the ancient city of Ayodhya, where history, faith, and culture come alive in the form of the Ayodhya Ram Temple! This incredible monument is not just a building; it's a symbol of devotion and unity that has captured the hearts of millions.
Historical Marvel:
Ayodhya, known as Lord Ram's birthplace, has been at the center of a big historical story. The famous Ramayana, a beloved Hindu epic, talks about the adventures of Lord Ram. The site, believed to be his birthplace, saw a long legal battle until 2019 when the Supreme Court of India gave the green light for building the Ram Temple.
Stone Story - Bansi Paharpur Sandstone:
The temple's superstructure is made of a special stone called Bansi Paharpur, a rare pink marble from Rajasthan. This stone, famous for its beauty and strength, has been used in other grand structures like the Akshardham Temple and the Parliament Complex. No steel or bricks are used – it's all about this magical pink stone!
Temple Features:
- Design: The temple follows the traditional Nagar architectural style, giving it a unique look.
- Chief Architect: Chandrakant Bhai Sompura, whose family has a history of designing grand temples.
- Idols: Two idols of Lord Ram – one found in 1949 and another huge statue visible from afar.
- Bell: A massive 2,100-kg bell is on its way from Etah, a renowned bell-making destination in India.
- Wood: Teak wood from Maharashtra's Chandrapur is used for windows and doors.
Dimensions and Layout:
- Length: 380 feet, Width: 250 feet, Height: 161 feet.
- Three stories, each 20 feet high, with 392 pillars and 44 gates.
- Main sanctum for Lord Shri Ram and a floor for Shri Ram Darbar.
- Five pavilions: Dance, Color, Sabha, Prayer, and Kirtan Pavilions.
- Pillars and walls adorned with carved statues of Gods and Goddesses.
Entrance and Surroundings:
- Entry from the east side, climbing 32 stairs from Singhdwar.
- Four temples for Sun God, Mother Bhagwati, Ganapati, and Lord Shiva at the corners.
- Other temples dedicated to various revered figures like Maharishi Valmiki and Mata Shabari.
Unique Construction Details:
- No iron or concrete on the ground.
- A 14-meter thick Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) foundation resembling an artificial rock.
- A 21-foot-high granite plinth to protect the temple from soil moisture.
The Ayodhya Ram Temple is not just a building; it's a living testament to history, culture, and faith. As its doors open, it invites us to marvel at the craftsmanship, cherish our shared heritage, and celebrate the unity it represents. A true gem in the heart of Ayodhya!"
