In a momentous celebration that transcends borders, the Hindu American community is gearing up to mark the long-awaited inauguration of the Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama. After years of anticipation, legal battles, and the historic Supreme Court verdict in November 2019, the construction of the temple reached a significant milestone with the laying of the foundation stone in August 2020.
The highly anticipated inauguration, scheduled to commence after Makar Sankranti on January 14, will witness Prime Minister Narendra Modi gracing the occasion with his presence. A plethora of VVIPs and celebrities from across the nation are set to attend the event, which will unfold over a 10-day period, filled with festivities and religious fervor.
The Sri Rama Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra Trust is leaving no stone unturned in making extensive arrangements for the grand celebration. The preparations include not only the physical inauguration in Ayodhya but also a global commemoration by Hindu Americans, particularly in the United States.
In an extraordinary show of solidarity, Indo-Americans have decided to illuminate their homes with the light of tradition by lighting five diyas. This symbolic gesture aims to express their joy and reverence for the culmination of a dream they never thought would come true in their lifetime. Bharat Barai from Chicago, one of the privileged invitees to the Ayodhya ceremony on January 22, expressed the profound significance of this moment.
To extend the celebration beyond physical boundaries, the VHPA has announced plans for car rallies in various cities across America, live broadcasts of the temple opening ceremony from Ayodhya, and community meetings. Massive screens will be erected to enable live streaming of the festivities, ensuring that Hindu Americans can actively partake in the consecration of the temple.
The VHPA’s call for Hindu Americans to illuminate at least five lamps in their homes echoes a collective sentiment of joy and participation in this historic event. As the grand inauguration approaches, the Indo-American community stands united in illuminating the symbolic lamps of tradition, culture, and faith to honor the consecration of Shri Ram Mandir.