According to Nripendra Mishra, chairman of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, Construction Committee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conceived the inauguration of the ‘Surya Tilak’ ceremony at the Ram Mandir, where sunlight is utilized to anoint the idol of Ram Lalla. Mishra stated that PM Modi aimed to blend traditional and modern technologies in the temple’s construction, and he also revealed plans to establish this ceremony as an annual tradition.
The ceremony, conducted today on Ram Navami, entailed the precise alignment of sunlight onto the forehead of the Ram Lalla idol, achieved through the collaboration of ten eminent scientists utilizing mirrors and lenses.
Mishra credited PM Modi for initiating this idea, emphasizing the incorporation of both ancient and contemporary technologies to ensure the temple’s longevity. He recounted an instance where PM Modi suggested consulting organizations like the Central Building Research Institute and CSIR for technological expertise. Mishra underscored PM Modi’s visionary stance on technology, highlighting his indirect yet influential guidance.
The Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust aims to institutionalize the ‘Surya Tilak’ ceremony as a customary practice every Ram Navami. Mishra detailed plans to establish a permanent mechanism for the ceremony once the construction of the temple’s spire is finalized.
Despite expectations of a larger turnout on Ram Navami, Mishra acknowledged construction challenges arising from the temple’s high footfall and concurrent agricultural activities in the vicinity.
