The sacred city of Ayodhya is preparing to welcome thousands of devotees and spiritual seekers as the Divine Historic Rashtra Katha approaches, scheduled from January 1 to January 8 at Prakshetra Nandini Niketan Nagar. This eight-day Mahotsav promises to be a grand confluence of devotion, culture, and spiritual reflection, attracting participants from across the country.

Adding significant weight to the occasion, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh Ji personally led a detailed review of the preparations for the Mahotsav. During his visit, he meticulously inspected all arrangements, including seating, stage setup, sound and lighting systems, and crowd management strategies. His hands-on involvement reflects his deep support for spiritual and cultural initiatives, reassuring devotees that the event will be well-organized and meaningful.

This Divine Historic Rashtra Katha is being organized from January 1 to January 8 on the occasion of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh’s birthday, with the final day, January 8, celebrating his special day.

Organizers noted that Brij Bhushan Ji also reviewed facilities for devotees, safety measures, and medical and emergency arrangements, ensuring that every participant would experience a safe, seamless, and spiritually enriching environment. His presence emphasizes the importance of the Mahotsav and symbolizes encouragement for the widespread participation expected during the eight-day program.

The Mahotsav will showcase the Divine Journey from Banke Bihari to Awadh Bihari, symbolizing the spiritual and cultural link between Vrindavan and Ayodhya. Param Pujya Sadhguru Shri Riteshwar Ji will narrate this sacred story, weaving together spiritual wisdom, devotional narratives, and practical lessons for living a balanced life.

The Katha is designed to offer a holistic spiritual experience, combining Rashtra Consciousness, Ram Katha, Hanumant Katha, Krishna Katha, eternal traditions, knowledge-science, and insights into the art of living life meaningfully. With Brij Bhushan Ji present, the event also highlights the importance of bridging spiritual devotion with civic and cultural awareness.

Preparations at Prakshetra Nandini Niketan Nagar are in their final stages to accommodate the large expected turnout. Volunteers have been assigned to assist devotees, manage crowds, and provide guidance. Brij Bhushan Ji’s involvement has inspired volunteers and organizers alike to maintain high standards of organization and hospitality. Medical facilities and emergency services have also been strengthened under his guidance.

The stage has been thoughtfully designed to reflect both devotional grandeur and functional efficiency, with traditional motifs and modern audiovisual technology ensuring that every attendee can engage fully with the Katha. Brij Bhushan Ji emphasized that these preparations were essential to create an environment that fosters reflection, devotion, and cultural learning.

With the Mahotsav poised to welcome thousands, the presence of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh Ji elevates the significance of the event, signaling both spiritual and social recognition. His personal review and guidance highlight his commitment to preserving cultural and devotional traditions while facilitating a safe, organized, and inspiring gathering.

The Divine Historic Rashtra Katha promises a spiritually immersive experience, offering attendees a unique opportunity to begin the New Year with devotion, cultural reflection, and life-enriching insights. Brij Bhushan Ji’s active participation ensures that the Mahotsav stands as a landmark spiritual and cultural event in Ayodhya’s calendar.

Ayodhya, June 14 – The Ram Darbar, located on the first floor of the grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, was officially opened to devotees on Saturday, marking another significant milestone in the temple's ongoing development. The decision to allow public access was taken late Friday evening by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.

According to Anil Mishra, a member of the Trust, devotees can now enter the Ram Darbar area starting Saturday, initially with limited access. On the first day, entry was restricted to two time slots: 5 PM to 7 PM and 7 PM to 9 PM, with passes issued to control the number of visitors.

The Trust, in coordination with the local administration, has introduced a pass system similar to that used for darshan of Ram Lalla. General Secretary Champat Rai granted the approval after a consultation meeting, allowing devotees to witness the royal form of Lord Ram.

The Ram Darbar features deities of Lord Ram along with Sita, Lakshman, Bharat, Shatrughna, and Hanuman. These idols, along with those in eight newly constructed temples within the temple complex, were consecrated on June 5.

As per the Trust’s plan, six daily darshan time slots will be available for the Ram Darbar, with 300 passes issued for each session: 7–9 AM, 9–11 AM, 1–3 PM, 3–5 PM, 5–7 PM, and 7–9 PM. Of these, 150 passes each will be handled by the district administration and the Trust. Within this allocation, 100 passes are reserved for special darshan and 50 for facilitated darshan.

The Ram Mandir complex, built in the traditional Nagara architectural style, spans 2.77 acres and measures 360 feet in length, 235 feet in width, and 161 feet in height. It houses 392 intricately carved pillars and 44 ornately designed doors. Statues of various Hindu deities adorn the temple's corners and wings, including Shiva, Ganesh, Surya, Annapurna, Hanuman, and Bhagwati.

The opening of the Ram Darbar is expected to enhance the spiritual experience for pilgrims and add to the religious significance of the Ram Janmabhoomi premises.

Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh - April 08 : This Ram Navami, devotees in Ayodhya can witness a unique celestial spectacle. Scientists are working tirelessly to create a system that will use the sun's rays to apply a tilak (mark) on the forehead of the idol of Ramlala (Lord Rama) for four minutes.

In preparation for this celestial event, a team of scientists, primarily from the Central Building Research Institute, Roorkee, is installing an optomechanical system within the Ram Temple. The intricate setup involves two mirrors and a lens on the ground floor, with sunlight channeled from a mirror on the third floor through a series of lenses and mirrors to create a focused beam. This focused beam will then form a 75 mm circular tilak on Ramlala's forehead at noon.

"The preparations for Surya Tilak (Sun Tilak) are being undertaken with utmost care," said Nripendra Mishra, Chairman of the temple construction committee. "The efforts of the scientists hold promise of a successful outcome on Ram Navami."

To ensure a smooth experience for devotees and avoid overcrowding, live telecasts of the event will be displayed on around 100 LED screens across the city. Temple authorities have also urged devotees to consider celebrating and worshipping from their homes to avoid crowds.

Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, has witnessed a significant rise in devotees visiting the newly consecrated Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple since January 22nd, 2024. Over one crore and twelve lakh devotees have performed darshan (holy viewing) of Ramlala in just three months. This marks a sharp increase compared to previous years.

Daily footfall currently averages between one lakh and 1.25 lakh devotees, with numbers even higher during festivals and on Tuesdays, considered auspicious. The surge is attributed to the temple's consecration, a long-awaited event for many Hindus.

According to the State Tourism Department, this trend reflects a broader increase in Ayodhya's pilgrimage numbers since 2017, when the Deepotsav festival began. Here's a glimpse into the past few years:

• 2017: 1,78,57,858 devotees (1,78,32,717 Indian, 25,141 foreign)
• 2018: 1,95,63,159 devotees (1,95,34,824 Indian, 28,335 foreign)
• 2019: 2,04,91,724 devotees (2,04,63,403 Indian, 28,331 foreign)
• 2020: 61,96,148 devotees (61,93,537 Indian, 2,611 foreign) - Affected by the pandemic
• 2021: 1,57,43,359 devotees (1,57,43,359 Indian, 431 foreign)
• 2022: 2,21,38,805 devotees (2,21,12,402 Indian, 26,403 foreign)
• 2023: 5,75,15,423 devotees (5,75,07,005 Indian, 8,418 foreign)

The influx of devotees has had a positive impact on the local economy. Shops, restaurants, hotels, and vendors are experiencing a boom in business. The Uttar Pradesh government, under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, is actively developing Ayodhya to accommodate the growing number of visitors. This includes expanding road networks, constructing a world-class airport and railway station, and enhancing infrastructure within the city. As Ayodhya continues its transformation, it's poised to become an even more prominent pilgrimage destination for Hindus worldwide.

Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh: Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra, along with her husband Nick Jonas and daughter Malti Marie Chopra, visited the holy town of Ayodhya on Wednesday to seek blessings at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple.

This comes just days after Priyanka's appearance at Isha Ambani's Holi party. Pictures from both events have been doing the rounds on social media.

Priyanka donned a traditional yellow Punjabi dress for the temple visit, while Nick Jonas and Malti Marie also sported traditional attire. The family was seen offering prayers at the Ram Lalla shrine.

Priyanka recently returned to India, attending an event before being joined by Nick Jonas. The couple was then spotted together at Ritesh Sidhwani's party. Fans can next look forward to seeing Priyanka Chopra in Farhan Akhtar's upcoming film "Jee Le Zara."

Ayodhya/Jaipur, March 11 - Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma embarked on his first visit to Ayodhya after the consecration of Lord Ram Lalla, leading a delegation comprising his Council of Ministers and MLAs. The Chief Minister, along with his entourage, arrived in Ayodhya on Monday to pay homage to Lord Ram at the revered Shri Ram temple.

The visit of Chief Minister Sharma and his team turned Ayodhya into a symbolic extension of Rajasthan's governance, as ministers, MPs, MLAs, Chief Secretary, and senior officials accompanied him. Chief Minister Sharma expressed his deep reverence for Lord Ram, highlighting that Ram is the core of their beliefs and resides within every individual.

Upon their arrival, the delegation participated in various religious activities, including chanting of 'Jai Shri Ram' and recitation of Hanuman Chalisa. Chief Minister Sharma also interacted with the workers and artisans involved in the construction of the Ram temple, acknowledging their efforts and dedication.

Chief Minister Sharma, along with other dignitaries, also attended the bhoomi pujan and foundation stone laying ceremony of the Saraswati Devi Shiv Kishan Dammani Bhavan, organized by the All India Maheshwari Seva Sadan Pushkar at Dashrath Kund in Ayodhya. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Chief Minister Sharma participated in the ceremony with fervent devotion.

Reflecting on the significance of the visit, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to offer prayers at the grand temple of Lord Shri Ram in Ayodhya. He praised the determination of devotees and their five-century-long struggle, which culminated in the construction of the magnificent temple.

Chief Minister Sharma also lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his dedication to developing the spiritual and cultural sectors of the country. He noted that temples, as symbols of Sanatan culture, are being renovated and developed under the Prime Minister's leadership, attracting devotees worldwide.

Praising the philanthropic efforts of the Maheshwari Samaj, Chief Minister Sharma expressed confidence that the building being constructed in Ayodhya by the community will provide exemplary services to devotees. Swami Govindgiri Ji Maharaj, Treasurer of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, highlighted the cultural resurgence of Ayodhya, describing it as the cultural capital of the world.

The visit of Chief Minister Sharma and his delegation was marked by a sense of spiritual rejuvenation and cultural enrichment, symbolizing the deep-rooted faith and reverence for Lord Ram in the hearts of the people of Rajasthan.

Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) [India], February 21:  Bajaj Allianz General Insurance, one of the leading private general insurers in India, today has announced the inauguration of its new office in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. As the lead insurer for the state of Uttar Pradesh, this strategic expansion aligns with the company’s commitment to bridging the insurance gap in the state and further strengthening its economic growth. Ayodhya’s emerging significance is expected to play an integral role in the overall Indian economy. Bajaj Allianz aims to play a pivotal role in Ayodhya’s growth by providing financial security to its citizens.

Following the highly anticipated inauguration of the Ram Mandir, Ayodhya is poised to emerge as a prominent hub for millions of visitors and devotees annually. This development will create significant demand for comprehensive insurance solutions, catering to individuals, families, and businesses across various sectors like hospitality, tourism, healthcare, banking, and infrastructure amongst others. Bajaj Allianz, with its diverse product portfolio, will address these evolving needs and contribute to Ayodhya’s thriving economic landscape.

 The opening of its Ayodhya office signifies a deliberate effort by Bajaj Allianz to launch efforts aimed at enhancing insurance coverage throughout the state. The company is dedicated to playing a significant role in achieving the objective of transforming Uttar Pradesh into an economy worth $1 Trillion. Through its presence in Ayodhya, Bajaj Allianz seeks to become a pivotal contributor to the area’s economic development and promote the financial prosperity of its citizens.

Commenting on the inauguration of the new office, Mr. Tapan Singhel, MD & CEO, of Bajaj Allianz General Insurance, said, “India is currently in the midst of a rapid economic boom, and the insurance industry is poised to play a pivotal role in ensuring financial security for individuals and businesses alike. Uttar Pradesh is at the forefront of this growth, and a significant contributor to the Country’s GDP. Ayodhya will play a significant part in this continued growth story. As the lead insurer in Uttar Pradesh, serving the citizens of Ayodhya and businesses holds immense significance for us. We believe this new office will play a pivotal role in bridging the insurance gap and further providing financial security for the citizens. 

We want to make a difference in Ayodhya. We already have a significant presence in UP and with the new office opening, we are confident that we will extend financial security and provide significant financial protection in the lives of the citizens, specifically in Ayodhya by bringing them under the ambit of insurance. We are dedicated to addressing the diverse insurance needs of our customers, enabling them to lead worry-free lives with dignity.’’

The newly opened office will offer a broad range of insurance products across all lines of business and all customer touchpoints. Along with this, the Bajaj Allianz team will engage in educating customers, guiding them toward the most suitable products that align with their specific needs, and ensuring they attain sufficient insurance coverage. Bajaj Allianz General Insurance remains steadfast in its commitment to making its products and services accessible throughout the nation. By focusing on digitalization, personalized offerings, and community engagement, and by leveraging its extensive distribution channels, the company is dedicated to serving its customers effectively and at the same time also contributing to the noble cause of promoting societal well-being on a larger scale. 

About Bajaj Allianz General Insurance

Bajaj Allianz General Insurance stands as India’s premier private general insurance company. It is a collaborative effort between Bajaj Finserv Limited, India’s most diversified non-bank financial institution, and Allianz SE, the world’s leading insurer and largest asset manager. Bajaj Allianz General Insurance provides a wide range of general insurance products, including motor insurance, home insurance, and health insurance, along with distinctive insurance offerings like coverage for pet insurance, weddings, events, cybersecurity, and the film industry. The company commenced its operations in 2001 and has consistently expanded its reach to be in close proximity to its customers. Presently, it maintains a presence in nearly 1,500 towns and cities across India. Notably, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance holds the issuer rating of [ICRA]AAA from ICRA Limited, signifying the highest level of assurance regarding the punctual fulfilment of financial commitments.

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Lucknow, Feb 15 (IANS) The sustained efforts of the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh over the past seven years are paying off and religious tourism now accounts for a major share ion the tourism sector.

Over 46 per cent of the total 819 projects set for launch during the fourth groundbreaking ceremony (GBC-4.0) in the tourism sector are located in centres of religious tourism, namely Varanasi, Ayodhya, Mathura and Prayagraj, according to the official spokesman.

The tourism department's target for the event was Rs 37,500 crore. Against this, 819 projects worth Rs 33,134.47 crore are set to take off, which is an achievement of 88 per cent against the goal.

Of the total, projects worth Rs 15,434.18 crore are located in these four cities-- Varanasi, Ayodhya, Mathura and Prayagraj.

The projects include hotels, resorts, spas, retreats, theme parks and so on.

According to the spokesman, Varanasi leads the list with projects with 34 entries bringing in an investment of Rs 6,730 crore.

It is followed by Ayodhya which has been able to pull in 114 projects worth Rs 4,318 crore.

Mathura ranks number three with 74 projects to the tune of Rs 3,278 crore.

Prayagraj, which ranks number seven in the regular list, has been able to attract investment of Rs 1,108.18 crore through 21 projects.

Chitrakoot, which is also attracting a lot of pilgrims because of its connection with Lord Ram, has got eight new projects worth Rs 118 crore.

Principal secretary, tourism, Mukesh Meshram said that the figures speak for the rising tourism economy of UP which is riding the spiritual tourism wave.

"Apart from being the birthplace of Ram and Krishna and the abode of Shiva , Uttar Pradesh is also the land of Buddha’s enlightenment. Then, there are 20-plus world-famous destinations closely linked to Jainism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Sufism, Sikhism and Christianity. Together these facts make the state a must-visit for many pilgrims," he said.

Tourism minister Jaiveer Singh said that this was just the beginning for UP.

"Around 1.5 lakh tourists are visiting Varanasi daily while an equal number are already visiting Ayodhya since the Ram temple was dedicated to people," the minister said.

Surat: Over 1300 Ram devotees from Surat Lok Sabha constituency embarked on a spiritual journey to Ayodhya today, aboard a special "Aastha Special Train" organized by the Indian Railways. The train departed from Udhna Railway Station at 6:00 PM, carrying enthusiastic pilgrims eager to witness the newly inaugurated Shri Ram temple.

Union Minister Darshanaben Jardosh, Surat City BJP President Niranjan Jhanjmera, and other dignitaries graced the departure ceremony, welcoming the pilgrims and sending them off with blessings. An air of excitement and devotion filled the station as devotees chanted slogans of "Jai Shri Ram" and waved saffron flags. Leaders interacted with pilgrims in each coach, offering their well wishes and thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and state BJP leaders for facilitating the pilgrimage.

This special train service, launched to cater to the surge in devotees visiting Ayodhya after the temple inauguration, offers a convenient and affordable travel option. The Railway Administration made meticulous arrangements for the journey, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience for the pilgrims.

As the train pulled out of the station, the atmosphere reverberated with chants of "Jai Shri Ram," marking the beginning of a momentous pilgrimage for the Surat devotees. Their journey reflects the widespread devotion to Lord Ram and the cultural significance of the Shri Ram temple in Ayodhya.

New Delhi, Feb 10 (IANS) Addressing the last sitting of the 17th Lok Sabha on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the resolution passed by the House on the Ram Temple will give the future generations constitutional strength to feel proud of the country’s values.

The views that were expressed by the members during the discussion in this House sent out the message of “sensitivity, resolution, sympathy, and sabka saath sabka vikas”, Modi said amid ‘Jai Shri Ram’ slogans from the ruling party benches.

“Everyone does not have the courage, and as a result they run away,” the PM said, taking a swipe at the Congress, which had stayed away from the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of the Ram Lalla at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22.

Ahead of Modi’s address, the Lok Sabha passed a resolution following an animated discussion on the “the construction of the historic Shri Ram Temple and Pran Pratishtha of Shri Ram”.

Taking a jibe again at the opposition members, Modi said the elections are not very far and a few might be nervous because of the same.

"However, it is a fact that our elections are an essential aspect of our democratic traditions. The elections will elevate the pride of the country and follow the democratic tradition," he said, adding that the world is surprised by India's strong democratic traditions.

In his last speech in the Lok Sabha before the 2024 general elections, Modi recalled the success of India’s G20 Presidency.

“India got the opportunity of G20 Presidency which was a great honour for the country. Even the states of the country displayed their capability and identified with the whole world during the G20 meetings and programmes," the Prime Minister said, adding, “The impact of what the states displayed continues to be there in the mind of the world even today.”

Recalling the list of achievements of the 17th Lok Sabha, the PM said that repeal of Article 370 was one of the decisions for which many generations waited for long.

Article 370 was scrapped during the term of this Lok Sabha in August 2019.

“I feel that those who drafted the Constitution will be showering blessings on us for this,” Modi pointed out.

"It is a matter of great satisfaction to fulfil the commitment that we made to the brothers and sisters of Jammu and Kashmir," the Prime Minister said.

"We made strict laws to eliminate terrorism that used to take the lives of innocent people earlier. The new laws that this House made give everyone courage and confidence now," he added.

Lucknow, Feb 9 (IANS) With 'Ram dhun' playing along the journey, Uttar Pradesh legislators will travel in luxury buses to Ayodhya to offer prayers at the Ram temple on Sunday.

Ten super luxury buses of the Uttar Pradesh State Roadways Transport Corporation have been made available for the spiritual journey.

These buses will be parked at the gates of the state Assembly on Sunday morning.

Uttar Pradesh Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh has directed that the external and internal cleanliness of these buses should be ensured and curtains should be installed.

For safety reasons, all buses must have fire extinguishers and first aid kits. Ram dhun will be played in the buses.

The driver/conductor will have name plate attached to their uniforms.

The MLAs will return to Lucknow the same day after offering prayers at the temple.

Gandhinagar - On Wednesday night, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel flagged off the inaugural "Aastha Special" train from Sabarmati Railway Station, carrying approximately 1,400 devotees from across Ahmedabad towards Ayodhya. This initiative underscores the Prime Minister's commitment to facilitating darshan of the newly consecrated Ram temple for devotees across the country.

Minister flags off, blessings shared:

Before the train's departure, Chief Minister Patel interacted with the enthusiastic pilgrims, wishing them a seamless journey and fulfilling darshan. Witnessing the excitement among devotees embarking on this sacred pilgrimage created a festive atmosphere at the station.

A journey inspired by faith:

Launched in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision, the "Aastha Special" initiative aims to provide effortless access to the grand Ram temple for devotees around the nation. This inaugural train from Ahmedabad carries 1,400 passengers eager to witness the magnificence of the newly built temple and seek blessings from Ramlala.

Witnessed by dignitaries:

Joining the Chief Minister at the ceremony were dignitaries such as Minister of State for Cooperation Jagdishbhai Vishwakarma, Ahmedabad City MLA Sanjay Patel, co-treasurer and co-in-charge Dharmendra Shah, and other leaders and officials.

Symbol of unity and devotion:

The "Aastha Special" train serves as a symbolic representation of India's cultural heritage and deep-rooted devotion to Lord Rama. Its success paves the way for similar initiatives, connecting devotees across the country to the newly consecrated Ram temple, fostering unity and spiritual fulfillment.