Why L.K. Advani and Murali Manohar Joshi Were Not Invited to Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha Ceremony?

In preparation for the much-anticipated Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony, the spotlight is on the notable absence of senior BJP leaders, L.K. Advani and Murali Manohar Joshi. The Ram Mandir Trust cites health and age-related concerns as the primary reasons for their exclusion from the ceremony scheduled for next month.

Champat Rai, the Secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra Trust, explained that due to their advanced age—Advani being 96 and Joshi turning 90 next month—an earnest request was made for them to refrain from attending the consecration ceremony, a request that both leaders have accepted.

Rai further disclosed that a three-member team has been formed to extend invitations and make arrangements, including a meeting with former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda. The preparations are in full swing for the consecration ceremony scheduled for January 22, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to participate. The rituals will commence on January 16 and continue until January 22.

The ceremony is poised to witness the participation of 150 saints from various traditions, 13 Akhadas, and around 2,000 other saints. Additionally, invitations have been extended to representatives of major temples, spiritual gurus such as the Dalai Lama and Mata Amritanandamayi, yoga guru Baba Ramdev, and prominent figures from various fields.

Following the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, a 48-day-long Mandala Puja, in accordance with North Indian traditions, will commence on January 24. Simultaneously, on January 23, the general public will have the opportunity to witness the darshan of Ram Lalla.

Rai assured that adequate arrangements have been made for guests to stay in over 600 rooms across three locations in Ayodhya. Furthermore, starting December 25, Bhandara (community kitchen) will be initiated at three main locations.

As preparations unfold, the Ayodhya Nagar Nigam has initiated the groundwork for the ceremony. Vishal Singh, the Municipal Commissioner, shared plans for the construction of facilities, including restrooms and changing rooms for female devotees. A Ram Katha Kunj corridor will be established, adorned with depictions of events from Lord Ram's life through 108 sculptures.

The article concludes with the mention of a Yatri Suvidha Kendra (Pilgrim Facilities Center) along the route, enhancing the overall experience for pilgrims and enabling the younger generation to connect closely with the life of Lord Ram.