Today, December 29, the decision on the idol of Lord Ram, known as Ram Lalla, that will grace the sanctum sanctorum of the majestic temple in Ayodhya is set to occur through a voting process, reliable sources have confirmed.
The voting session is slated to convene at the meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, the entrusted body overseeing the construction and administration of the grand Ram Temple.
Insiders revealed that all three designs, crafted by different sculptors, will be presented for consideration. The design receiving the highest number of votes will be consecrated at the shrine on January 22.
Earlier statements from trust secretary Champat Rai indicated that among the three designs, a 51-inch-tall idol of Lord Ram portraying him as a five-year-old, Ram Lalla, would be chosen.
"We're looking for an idol that emanates divinity and has the innocence of a child," Rai commented.
Meanwhile, Nripendra Misra, Chairman of the Shri Ram Mandir Construction Committee, inspected the ongoing construction work at the Ram Janmabhoomi Path and the complex, accompanied by top district officials.
The inspection preceded the consecration ceremony planned for next month and occurred just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's impending visit to the temple city.
Misra assured, "The construction isn't rushed; it's meticulous, ensuring quality by dedicating ample time to it."
He outlined the construction plan divided into three phases, aiming for completion of the first phase by December 2023, followed by the temple construction in January, and subsequent work within the complex.
Further instructions were given by Misra to complete the installation of security equipment, 'welcome gate,' and canopy on Janmabhoomi Path by December without fail.
According to temple authorities, the seven-day consecration ceremony commences on January 16. The appointed hosts, Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra, will initiate the atonement ceremony on that day, alongside rituals like 'Dashvidh' bath, Vishnu worship, and cow offerings at the Saryu River banks.
On January 17, a procession carrying the idol of Lord Ram as a child (Ram Lalla) will arrive in Ayodhya, accompanied by devotees carrying Saryu water in Mangal Kalash.
Subsequent days will witness various rituals, including formal puja ceremonies, holy fire lighting, 'Navagraha' establishment, 'havan' rituals, sanctum cleaning with Saryu water, Vaastu Shanti, and 'Annadhivas.'
The awaited decision on the idol design marks a significant step toward the completion and inauguration of the revered Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya.
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