Massive Theft In Ayodhya: 4,000 Lights Stolen From Ram Path

Ayodhya: A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered at the Ram Janmabhoomi Police Station in Ayodhya concerning the suspected theft of 3,800 bamboo lights and 36 gobo projector lights, estimated to be worth over Rs 50 lakh, from the secured Bhakti Path and Ram Path areas. The police are now investigating the credibility of the claim.

Investigation into the Alleged Theft

The stolen items were part of the decorative installations set up by Yash Enterprises and Krishna Automobiles, who were contracted by the Ayodhya Development Authority. These installations included 6,400 bamboo lights on trees along Ram Path and 96 gobo projector lights on Bhakti Path. According to Shekhar Sharma, a representative of the firm, the theft was discovered in May, but the FIR was only filed on August 9. There are suspicions that the company responsible for installing the lights may have initially installed fewer lights than contracted, raising questions about their potential involvement in the theft.

Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha Ceremony

On January 22, the newly built grand Ram Janmabhoomi temple marked a significant milestone with the pran pratishtha ceremony of a 51-inch-tall idol of Lord Ram Lalla. The idol, crafted by esteemed sculptor Arun Yogiraj, was the centerpiece of the rituals, which were attended by approximately 8,000 distinguished guests from various fields. Prime Minister Narendra Modi graced the ceremony, overseeing the proceedings and offering prayers to the deity.

Enhanced Security Measures and Temple Expansion

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust has announced plans to enhance the security and infrastructure of the revered temple complex. A 14-foot-wide protective wall, known as ‘Parkota,’ will be constructed around the premises to ensure the safety of devotees. Additionally, six new temples dedicated to major deities such as Lord Shiva and Lord Hanuman will be constructed within the multipurpose area. Upon completion, the expanded Ram temple complex will be able to accommodate up to 25,000 pilgrims and their belongings at the same time, according to Champat Rai, the general secretary of the trust

Architectural Features of the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir

The Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, built in the traditional Nagara style, covers 2.7 acres in the temple town. The temple's dimensions are 380 feet in length (east-west), 250 feet in width, and 161 feet in height. It features 392 pillars, 44 doors, and five Mandaps (halls)—Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prarthna Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap. The pillars and walls of the temple are intricately decorated with sculptures of various Hindu deities.