Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Second Pran Pratishtha Rituals Begin
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya has entered a significant new phase with the commencement of the second Pran Pratishtha (consecration) rituals, marking another milestone in the temple’s spiritual and cultural journey. Here are the key updates:
Grand Rituals and Schedule
The second phase of Pran Pratishtha rituals began on June 3, 2025, and will culminate on June 5, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Ganga Dussehra.
The ceremonies are being conducted by 101 seers and priests, performing elaborate Vedic rituals, including the chanting of 1,975 mantras, fire offerings (yagya), and recitations of hymns such as the Ram Raksha Stotra and Hanuman Chalisa.
The rituals start daily at 6:30 AM and continue until the evening, with the main consecration event scheduled for the Abhijit Muhurat between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM on June 5.
New Idols to Be Consecrated
Seven new idols will be consecrated during this phase, including the Ram Darbar ensemble (Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Bharat, Shatrughan, and Hanuman) on the first floor of the temple.
Additional idols of Surya Dev, Lord Ganesh, Annapurna, Bhagwati, and Shivling will be installed in six newly constructed temples along the temple’s boundary walls.
These rituals, known as Aushadhivas (sanctifying with herbs) and Shayadhivas (ceremonial resting), are part of the Vedic process to infuse divine energy into the idols and temple space.
Political and Cultural Context
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is set to attend the main ceremony on June 5, participating in the unveiling of the idols and the Saryu Jayanti Janmotsav celebrations.
The event is seen as a moment of pride for Sanatan Dharma followers, symbolizing the restoration of a temple once destroyed by Mughal invaders.
Opposition parties have raised concerns, alleging that the timing and scale of the ceremonies are being used for political mileage, especially with prominent political figures participating.
Community Celebrations
The week-long festivities will continue from June 5 to 11, featuring devotional events, spiritual discourses, and special offerings.
The rituals are being broadcast and coordinated to allow devotees and priests to participate simultaneously across the complex.
“On January 22, ‘Pran Pratishtha’ was done for the ‘baal roop’ (child form) of Lord Rama, now it is Raja Ram (King Ram),” said Mahamandaleshwar Vishnu Das, highlighting the transition in the temple’s spiritual focus.
This second phase of consecration further establishes the Ram Mandir as a vibrant center of faith, tradition, and community in Ayodhya, with both spiritual and political significance in contemporary India.
