The Ram Temple in Ayodhya stands as a testament to architecture, faith, and history. Erected on the birthplace of Lord Ram, this stunning temple has become a significant spiritual and cultural landmark. Every aspect of the temple, from its beautiful Nagara-style architecture to its remarkable idols crafted from rare Shaligram stone, reflects India’s rich heritage. It is a renowned and enchanting structure that features distinctive elements, such as soil from sacred locations, a time capsule, and a unique rock sourced from Ashoka Vatika in Sri Lanka.
We have gathered some intriguing facts about the Ram Temple for you.
Who was the architect?
The Ram Temple was designed in 1988 by the Sompura family from Ahmedabad, who have constructed over 100 temples globally over 15 generations, including the renowned Somnath Temple. However, in 2020, modifications were made to the design to align with the principles of Shilpa Shastra and Vastu Shastra.
Temple Dimensions
The Ram Temple rises three stories high and covers an area of 2.67 acres. It features five pavilions, 46 entrances, and 390 intricately carved pillars. The temple reaches a height of 161 feet, a length of 380 feet, and a width of 250 feet. A miniature statue of Lord Ram is enshrined in the sanctum sanctorum, while the Sri Ram Darbar is situated on the first floor.
Architectural Design
Constructed in the Nagara style, the Ram Temple is made from pink sandstone sourced from Mirzapur and Bansi-Paharpur in Rajasthan. A central spire, flanked by small turrets (mukh mandapas), is characteristic of this architectural style.
Idol in the Sanctum Sanctorum
The main sanctum features a 51-inch black statue of Lord Ram as a 5-year-old boy, crafted from Shaligram stone found in the Gandaki River in Nepal. The statue took approximately 7-8 months to carve.
Access for Devotees
Visitors must ascend 32 steps, which are 16.11 feet above ground level, to enter the temple. Additionally, elevators and ramps are available to facilitate access for the elderly and disabled.
Sacred Soil and Water
The foundation of the temple is made up of precious soil sourced from 2,587 different locations, including Jhansi, Haldighati, and the Golden Temple. During the inauguration ceremony, water from 155 sacred rivers and soil from 2,000 pilgrimage sites were included. Additionally, a time capsule, buried 2,000 feet below the temple, holds information about Ayodhya’s history and the birthplace of Lord Rama.
Representation of the Solar System
The temple boasts a garden featuring plants that symbolize the 27 nakshatras (astrological constellations). Moreover, the temple is constructed to endure for over 2,500 years and is designed to be earthquake-resistant.
A Special Gift from Sri Lanka
A stone from the ancient Ashoka Vatika in Sri Lanka, where Ravana kept Sita captive, has been presented as a gift to the temple. By not using iron in its construction, the building is expected to last for more than a thousand years.
Modern Facilities in the Complex
The Ram Temple complex is equipped with the following modern amenities:
1. Emergency Medical Services
2. Banks and ATMs
3. Solar Panels and Power Backup
4. Ramps and Elevators for Senior Citizens
5. Pilgrim Facilitation Centre for Visitor Management
6. Public facilities such as toilets, bathrooms, and washrooms.