The historic city of Ayodhya, revered by millions as the birthplace of Lord Rama, stands as a beacon of devotion and spirituality in India. With the completion of the magnificent Ram Mandir in 2024, it has become an epicentre of pilgrimage, drawing devotees from across the globe. As the temple gears up for the first Pran Pratishtha anniversary of Ram Lalla on 11 January 2025, many devotees are curious about why this significant event is being celebrated earlier than its inaugural date of 22 January 2024. Let’s delve into the religious and astrological insights provided by the Hindu Panchang that explain this shift.
Why January 11th, 2025?
In Hinduism, religious events and ceremonies are traditionally aligned with the lunar calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar. According to the Hindu Panchang, the auspicious day of Paush Shukla Dwadashi falls on 11 January 2025. Since this date is considered spiritually significant, the first anniversary of Ram Lalla’s Pran Pratishtha is scheduled accordingly.
The selection of this day ensures that the celebration aligns with favourable planetary positions and yogas (special astrological combinations), making it highly auspicious for worship. This alignment underscores the importance of adhering to Vedic traditions, where the precise timing of religious events is determined by the cosmic rhythm.
Astrological Significance of January 11th
The date, 11 January 2025, is marked by several powerful astrological yogas, making it ideal for spiritual observance:
- Nakshatra: Mrigashira – This nakshatra is known for its association with prosperity and divine blessings.
- Yogas:
- Shukla: Active until 11:49 am on 11 January
- Brahma: Active until 9:09 am on 12 January
- Balava: Active until 8:21 am on 11 January
- Kaulava: Active until 7:25 am on 11 January
- Taitila: Active until 6:33 am on 12 January
- Rohini: Active until 12:29 pm on 12 January
Additionally, two highly revered yogas—Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga and Amrit Siddhi Yoga—are present on this day from 7:15 am to 12:29 pm, further amplifying its significance. It is believed that worship performed during these yogas yields the highest spiritual rewards, fulfilling devotees’ heartfelt desires.
Special Observances on This Day
Devotees planning to participate in the celebrations can perform puja and other rituals at any time during the day, as the entire period is deemed highly auspicious. Worship of Lord Ram Lalla during the confluence of these favourable yogas is believed to bring prosperity, peace, and divine blessings.
Moreover, it is noteworthy that during this period:
- Lord Shiva is believed to reside on Mount Kailash until 8:21 am on 11 January.
- Nandi, the sacred bull and vehicle of Lord Shiva, is present until 6:33 am on 12 January.
Significance of the Anniversary Celebration
The Pran Pratishtha ceremony, performed on 22 January 2024, marked the consecration of the Ram Lalla idol in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. This sacred ritual signified the awakening of divine presence in the idol, transforming the temple into a vibrant spiritual centre.
The upcoming anniversary is not just a commemoration of this historic event but also an opportunity for devotees to reconnect with their faith and seek divine grace. The celebrations will include grand pujas, recitations of Ramayana, bhajans, and special offerings to Lord Rama.
The first Pran Pratishtha anniversary of Ram Lalla on 11 January 2025 promises to be a momentous occasion for devotees worldwide. By aligning the celebrations with the Hindu Panchang and ensuring the presence of auspicious yogas, the organizers have upheld the sanctity of Vedic traditions. This unique blend of devotion, spirituality, and astrological precision underscores the timeless cultural heritage of Ayodhya and its unwavering devotion to Lord Rama.
Also Read: Mahakumbh 2025: After how many years the Kumbh Mela is held in Haridwar?