Ayodhya: In a momentous address on December 30, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended an invitation to the nation to celebrate the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya on January 22. Emphasizing the blend of “vikas” (development) and “virasat” (heritage), he expressed confidence that this synergy would propel India into a prosperous future.
PM Modi called upon citizens to light special diyas, named ‘Shri Ram Jyoti,’ in their homes to mark the occasion as a spiritual ‘Deepawali.’ He underscored that Ayodhya, the epicenter of this historic event, was infusing fresh energy into the nationwide campaign for development.
Reflecting on the transformation, PM Modi noted that Lord Ram, once residing under a tent, would now have a concrete abode, mirroring the improved living conditions of four crore impoverished individuals who received pucca houses. The prime minister celebrated India’s progress, affirming that the nation was not only enhancing its sacred sites but also attaining global prominence in technology.
He articulated the pivotal role of preserving heritage in a country’s development, citing India’s journey of amalgamating the old and the new. PM Modi emphasized, “Today, not only Ram Lalla has got a pucca house, but four crore poor people have also got pucca houses.” This, he asserted, symbolized India’s march forward in the 21st century, propelled by the joint force of development and heritage.
PM Modi hailed the simultaneous revival of sacred sites like Kedar Dham and the establishment of over 315 new medical colleges. He proudly mentioned the construction of Mahakal Mahalok and the creation of more than two lakh water tanks, ensuring water supply to every household.
Acknowledging the eagerness of people to witness the historic event in Ayodhya, PM Modi appealed for understanding, urging those not officially invited to come later. He expressed his anticipation for January 22, emphasizing the world’s keen anticipation of this significant moment.
Addressing Ayodhya’s residents, PM Modi urged them to make Ayodhya the cleanest city in India, fostering a sense of responsibility among the citizens. He envisioned Ayodhya as a perennial destination, drawing people from across the globe.
To amplify the spirit of cleanliness, the prime minister called for a nationwide cleanliness drive at religious sites and temples from January 14 to 22. This initiative aimed to instill a collective commitment to maintaining the sanctity of such places.
Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw joined PM Modi during his visit, marking the inauguration of a renovated railway station and airport.
Paying homage to Maharshi Valmiki, after whom the Ayodhya airport is named, PM Modi praised the Ramayana as a guiding force leading to Prabhu Shri Ram. He envisioned the newly built airport, Maharshi Valmiki International Airport, as a connection to the divine, grand, and new Ram Mandir.
PM Modi highlighted the transformative impact of Vande Bharat, Namo Bharat, and Amrit Bharat on the railways, asserting that the trishakti would rejuvenate the railway system.
In a historical context, he noted the significance of December 30, commemorating Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s flag hoisting in Andaman in 1943. On this auspicious day, PM Modi reaffirmed the commitment to advancing the “aazadi ka amrit kaal” resolve.
During his visit, the prime minister made an impromptu stop at the house of the 10th-crore beneficiary of the Ujjwala Yojana, emphasizing the government’s success in providing gas connections. He commended the Ujjwala scheme, highlighting the distribution of 18 crore gas connections, including 10 crore free of cost, within a decade.
PM Modi concluded by acknowledging various pilgrimages across the country, emphasizing their significance in strengthening the connection between devotees and God. He envisioned that the ongoing construction work in Ayodhya would ease the journey for every Ram devotee, making the darshan of God more accessible.