Ram Mandir consecration ceremony: 7000kg 'Ram Halwa' to be prepared
The upcoming Ayodhya Ram Mandir consecration ceremony on January 22, 2024, is set to feature a staggering 7000 kg batch of 'Ram Halwa' prepared by renowned Nagpur-based Chef Vishnu Manohar. This unique dessert will be cooked in a colossal 12,000-litre cauldron and will include a host of ingredients. Per authorities, this is going to amp up the week-long festivities at Ayodhya and promise a harmonious blend of spiritual and luxurious experiences.
Ingredients and preparation process for the massive dessert
To create the 'Ram Halwa', Chef Manohar will utilize 900 kg of rava (semolina), 1000 kg of ghee (clarified butter), 1000 kg of sugar, 2000 liters of milk, 2500 liters of water, 300 kg of dry fruits, and 75 kg of cardamom powder. The chef revealed that the cauldron itself weighs between 1300 and 1400 kg and is constructed from steel with an iron core to prevent scorching.
The cauldron requires to be lifted by a crane
According to reports, measuring an impressive 10 feet by 10 feet, the cauldron necessitates the use of a crane for lifting. Additionally, a specialized spatula, weighing between 10 to 12 kg and featuring perforations, will be utilized to streamline the halwa's cooking process.
Ayodhya's beautification with Ramayana-era trees and plants
In preparation for the event, Ayodhya is also undergoing a botanical transformation with the planting of trees and plants from the Ramayana era. The Ayodhya Development Authority has ordered 50,000 plants to beautify the city. More plant varieties are being transported using various vehicles. Vice Chairman Vishal Singh expressed his dedication to preserving plants mentioned in the Ramayana and those facing extinction, while also emphasizing horticultural beautification through the addition of flowers.
Week's schedule: What's happening on January 16, 17, and 18
According to ANI, the Temple Trust has planned a seven-day itinerary of the rituals in Ayodhya. The anointment ceremony will be conducted on January 16. The Dashvidh bath, which involves Vishnu worship and Godan, will then be carried out on the banks of the Saryu River. The idol of Ram Lalla will arrive in a procession on January 17. Ganesh Ambika Puja, Varun Puja, Matrika Puja, Brahmin Varan, and Vastu Pujan are among the ceremonies planned for January 18.
Rituals happening on January 19, 20, 21, and 22
The rituals of January 19 include agni sthapana, navagraha sthapana, and havan. On January 20, the holy water of Saryu will be used to cleanse the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram Mandir, along with the performance of rituals like vaastu shanti and annadhivas. The shayadhivas ritual will be performed and the deity Ram Lalla will be bathed in a divine bath made of 125 urns on January 21. Finally, the Ram Lalla idol will be worshipped on January 22.
