Old Ram Idol Which “Appeared” Inside Babri Masjid in 1949 Gets Special Place in New Ram Mandir

Ayodhya: The long-awaited opening of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, India, was a momentous occasion celebrated by millions of Hindus worldwide. The grand “Pran Pratishtha” ceremony on January 22, 2024, marked the culmination of a decades-long legal battle and the fulfillment of a cherished dream for many Hindus.

The ceremony saw the installation of a new 51-inch black stone idol of Lord Ram in the temple’s sanctum sanctorum. This majestic idol, sculpted by Mysuru-based artist Arun Yogiraj, depicts Ram adorned in a yellow dhoti, a golden crown, and necklaces, holding a golden bow and arrow.

However, the temple also holds a place for the old Ram Lalla idol, believed by many to have mysteriously appeared inside the Babri Masjid in 1949. This revered relic will be enshrined in the sanctum sanctorum on a throne opposite the new idol, allowing devotees to pay their respects to both.

Nripendra Misra, chairman of the temple construction committee, highlighted the ongoing ceremonies to transition the deity from the temporary tent to the sanctum sanctorum. The temple’s opening ceremony witnessed the presence of renowned personalities, including film stars, sportspersons, musicians, and industrialists.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leading the ‘Pran Pratishta,’ encouraged Indians to celebrate the occasion akin to Diwali, symbolizing Lord Ram’s triumphant return.