Raipur – The Chhattisgarh government has announced a ‘dry day’ across the state on January 22 to mark the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel stated that no sale of liquor will be allowed in Chhattisgarh on the day when the construction of the grand Ram Mandir concludes with a consecration ritual.
“As you all know, we have been observing ‘good governance days’ from December 25 to January 2. Lord Ram’s reign has been a model for our good governance,” the CM said, underlining the state’s connection to Lord Ram.
Chhattisgarh is believed to be the maternal home (animal) of Lord Ram. The village of Chandkhuri near Raipur is revered as the birthplace of Goddess Kaushalya, mother of Lord Ram, Baghel highlighted.
The CM also informed that 300 metric tonnes of aromatic rice grown in Chhattisgarh has been sent for the consecration ceremony along with vegetables cultivated by local farmers.
People across the state will also light earthen lamps on January 22 to mark the occasion, which is being seen as historic as a decades-long campaign culminates in the opening of the Ram Temple.
The Rs 1,800-crore grand temple’s construction began in 2020 at the site in Ayodhya where devotees believe Lord Ram was born. Its consecration will be attended by Prime Minister Modi along with over one lakh devotees.
“We are proud that produce grown by Chhattisgarh’s farmers will be used in the consecration rituals. It is a reflection of the glory of Lord Ram’s maternal home,” Baghel said.
The Ram Temple consecration falls ahead of Chhattisgarh state polls next year, with both major parties vying to showcase their respect for religious traditions and heritage.
