New Delhi

Narendra Modi on Friday offered prayers to Lord Ram and virtually witnessed the sacred ‘Surya Tilak’ ceremony at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple on the occasion of Ram Navami.

At the temple in Ayodhya, the ritual unfolded at exactly noon, when a beam of sunlight precisely illuminated the forehead of the idol of Ram Lalla, creating a divine ‘tilak’. Priests performed special prayers during the moment, which is considered highly auspicious.

Ram Navami marks the culmination of the nine-day Chaitra Navratri festival, a period dedicated to worshipping the various forms of Goddess Shakti. Devotees across the country observe fasts, engage in prayers, and follow spiritual practices during this time.

The festival commemorates the birth of Lord Ram, who is revered as an embodiment of righteousness and virtue. Celebrations are particularly grand in Ayodhya, regarded as his birthplace, where large numbers of devotees gather to offer prayers.

In view of the heavy footfall, security arrangements at the temple were significantly strengthened. Authorities deployed drones and an extensive network of CCTV cameras to monitor the situation and ensure smooth management of the crowds.

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Senior police officials confirmed that elaborate measures are in place to maintain safety and facilitate the movement of pilgrims visiting the temple on this auspicious occasion.