Ayodhya: In a significant development, the Ram Mandir Trust has unveiled plans for the upcoming Ram Mandir complex in Ayodhya, emphasizing self-sufficiency and a substantial green cover. The trust’s general secretary, Champat Rai, highlighted that about 70% of the sprawling 70-acre complex will be dedicated to greenery, preserving approximately 600 existing trees.
Rai, in a presentation to the media, outlined the complex’s commitment to being ‘atmanirbhar’ (self-reliant) without burdening Ayodhya’s municipal infrastructure. The temple complex is designed to feature its own sewage and water treatment plants, a dedicated power line, and a fire brigade post capable of sourcing water from an underground reservoir.
The first phase of the temple’s construction is nearing completion, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to participate in the consecration ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol on January 22. The temple complex, built in the traditional Nagara style, will be an architectural marvel, stretching 380 feet in length (east-west direction), 250 feet in width, and reaching a height of 161 feet.
Visitors will access the temple from the east side, climbing 32 steps to reach the main temple. The structure will eventually have three storeys, standing at G+2, with each floor being 20 feet high and featuring a total of 392 pillars and 44 gates.
A unique feature of the temple will be the rectangular periphery called ‘percota,’ typically found in South Indian temples. This ‘percota’ will be 14 feet wide, spanning 732 meters and dedicated to Sun God, Maa Bhagwati, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Shiva at its four corners.
Apart from the main temple, the complex will house shrines dedicated to various figures associated with Lord Ram’s life, including Maharshi Valmiki, Maharshi Vashisht, Maharshi Vishwamitra, and others. Notably, a shrine for Maa Annapurna will be constructed on the northern side, while a shrine for Lord Hanuman will be on the southern side.
The trust also revealed plans for a lift, two ramps for accessibility, and a pilgrim facilitation complex with a healthcare center, a toilet block, and provisions for depositing belongings before ‘darshan.’ The complex aims to provide a seamless experience for the estimated 25,000 visitors expected before the consecration ceremony.
As Ayodhya prepares for Prime Minister Modi’s visit on December 30 to inaugurate the redeveloped Ayodhya railway station and a new airport, the anticipation for the completion of the historic Ram Mandir continues to grow. The consecration ceremony is scheduled during an auspicious time between noon and 12:15 pm.
