Ayodhya, India: The final phase of the rigorous selection process for priests to conduct worship ceremonies and rituals at the soon-to-be-inaugurated Ram Temple in Ayodhya has reached its culmination, with the concluding interviews for 225 shortlisted candidates held from November 18 to 20. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, entrusted with overseeing the shrine, faced an overwhelming response of over 3,000 applications from learned Vedic scholars vying for the opportunity to serve at the sacred abode of Ram Lalla.

The selected priests will undergo an intensive six-month training program in Ayodhya, focusing on the worship methodologies outlined in the Ramayana, the revered mythological epic depicting Lord Rama's life. The chosen candidates will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 2,000 during this training period.

Scheduled for inauguration on January 22, 2024, through the 'Pran Prathishttha' ceremony, the Ram Temple's grand opening will witness Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the chief guest. He will also preside over the placement of idols at the shrine's sanctum sanctorum during the auspicious ceremony.

Innovative Worship Practices
Efforts are underway to finalize a comprehensive guide detailing the mythologically accurate practices and protocols for deity worship at the Ram Temple. Titled "Nootan Pothi," this scripture is being compiled by Govind Devgiri, the trust's treasurer, focusing on worship practices aligned with Vedic scriptures, Agamic principles, and the Ramayana. The newly recruited priests will strictly adhere to these prescribed practices.

Final Construction Phase
The sanctum sanctorum's construction is complete, with gold plating underway for the temple doors. After the consecration, significant revisions are anticipated across all aspects of temple rituals, offerings, and ceremonies.

Ayodhya Deepotsav and Its Historic Achievement
The Ram Temple's 'Deepotsav' set a new world record by illuminating over 22.2 lakh oil clay lamps on the eve of Diwali and adorning 52 ghats along the Sarayu river. A staggering 25,000 individuals participated in this monumental event, marking its place in history on November 11.

The meticulous selection and training of priests, coupled with the dedication to mythologically accurate worship practices, are indicative of the meticulous preparations underway for the highly anticipated inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

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