Ram Navami: Ram Lalla idol illuminated with 'Surya Tilak' at Ayodhya's Ram temple

The Ram Temple in Ayodhya witnessed a remarkable spectacle as the forehead of the Ram Lalla idol was adorned with a beam of sunlight, known as 'Surya Tilak,' on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami.

The intricate process of applying the "Surya Tilak" to Ram Lalla's forehead was orchestrated at noon through a sophisticated system involving mirrors and lenses within the Ram Temple premises. Commissioned by the temple trust, a team of scientists utilized their expertise to ensure the precise direction of sunlight onto the deity's forehead, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle. The phenomenon lasted for approximately three minutes, marking a historic moment for devotees.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged the significance of the occasion during his election rally in Nalbari, Assam, invoking chants of 'Jai Siyawar Ram.' He remarked, "Today marks the historic occasion of Ram Navami. After a wait of 500 years, Lord Ram has finally been enshrined in his magnificent temple. As we apply the Surya Tilak to Lord Ram, his birth anniversary will be celebrated in the holy city of Ayodhya."

The moment of the Surya Tilak evoked fervent devotion among devotees, resonating with chants of 'Jai Shri Ram' reverberating across Ayodhya and in temples nationwide. Outside the Ram Janambhoomi Mandir, devotees expressed their joy through song and dance, marking the first Ram Navami since PM Modi's Pran Pratishtha of the idol of Lord Ram on January 22.

Ram Navami celebrations at the Ram Janambhoomi Mandir were characterized by elaborate rituals and offerings, including 56 types of bhog, prasad, and panjiri. Acharya Satyendra Das, Chief Priest of the temple, highlighted the meticulous preparations, emphasizing the special attire and ceremonial bathing of Lord Ram.

The festivities attracted a multitude of devotees who thronged the Ram Mandir, demonstrating their unwavering faith and devotion. Before paying homage at the temple, devotees partook in a purifying dip in the sacred waters of the Saryu River. The temple opened its doors for darshan at 3:30 am, with the celebrations broadcasted on approximately 100 LED screens throughout the city and on the trust's social media platforms.