Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Inauguration Countdown Begins with Installation of First 'Golden Gate'

A significant milestone was achieved at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya as the first 'swarn dwar' (golden gate) was successfully installed, setting the stage for the grand inauguration on January 22. A released picture swiftly circulated across various social media platforms to mark this historic occasion, revealing the intricate design of the golden gate.

Over the next three days, workers will meticulously install a total of 13 golden doors, including the vast gate of the sanctum sanctorum, in the temple.

The recently unveiled image of the golden gate showcases two welcoming elephants on the central panel. The upper part features a palace-like structure with two servants respectfully standing with folded hands, while the lower section exhibits beautiful artworks inscribed in the four squares.

Golden Gate at Ayodhya

The Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirath Kshetra Trust, overseeing the temple construction, shared a series of pictures highlighting the temple's night-time illumination. Among these images were depictions of the sculpture of Jatayu, a significant character in the Ramayana, and exquisitely carved figures of deities, gods, and goddesses adorning the pillars and walls.

Constructed in the traditional Nagara style, the Ram Mandir stands as a three-storied shrine with dimensions of 380 ft in length (east-west direction), 250 ft in width, and 161 ft in height. Featuring 392 pillars and 44 doors, the temple includes five mandaps or halls – Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prarthna Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap.

They are currently preparing for the 'pran-prathistha' ceremony of Ram Lalla scheduled for January 22. Idols of elephants, lions, Lord Hanuman, and Garuda, the 'vahana' of Lord Vishnu, adorn the entrance gate of the temple.

The highly anticipated inauguration will witness Prime Minister Narendra Modi participating in the ceremony and performing rituals in the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram Temple around 12:15 PM. The organizers extended invitations to over 7,000 guests, including 3,000 VVIPs comprising priests, donors, and politicians, marking this historic event with widespread participation.