The Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Vishnu Deo Sai, announced on Tuesday evening that the state government has opted for a ‘dry day’ on January 22 to mark the consecration of Shri Ram Lalla at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. Speaking to reporters in the state capital, CM Sai expressed the significance of Chhattisgarh being the maternal birthplace of Lord Ram’s grandparents, particularly in Chandkhuri. “It is our fortune that Chhattisgarh is the maternal birthplace of Lord Ram, and it is our fortune that the consecration of the Ram temple is going to take place in Ayodhya on January 22. There will be an atmosphere of enthusiasm across the state on that day. Like Diwali, lamps will be lit in homes, and the Chhattisgarh government has decided to declare January 22 as a dry day in the entire state,” said the CM. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend the Pran-Pratishtha (consecration) of Shri Ram Lalla in Ayodhya on January 22. Vedic rituals for the ceremony will commence on January 16, a week before the event. The main rituals will be conducted by priest Lakshmi Kant Dixit from Varanasi. A grand Hundi Mahayagya involving 1008 priests will also take place, and several tent cities are being established in Ayodhya to accommodate the expected influx of devotees. The Sri Ram Janambhoomi Trust is making arrangements for 10,000-15,000 people, with local authorities focusing on enhanced security and logistical preparations for a seamless and spiritually enriching experience for attendees.
