German saint hails ‘development explosion’ in Ayodhya

Ayodhya: Amid the influx of saints and visitors from across the world to Ayodhya ahead of the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ of Shri Ram Lalla, Shanak Sanatan Das, a German monk, said the January 22 event will include a traditional approach.

Speaking to ANI on Saturday, the saint, who lives in Uttar Pradesh’s Vrindavan, said his experience in the city since coming from ‘Pran Pratishtha’ has been ‘fantastic’.

Recalling his last visit to Ayodhya in 1992, he said the city was earlier neglected but has since witnessed a ‘development explosion’. “It feels wonderful to be here in Ayodhya. “It looks like a holy place before the inauguration of the Ram temple.”

When I was first here in 1992, the city was neglected and lagged behind on many development parameters and public facilities. However, the aspect that has impressed me about the city since I came here is the growth explosion it has seen.”

Emphasizing on the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony, he said, “This program involves a very traditional approach. This is a very auspicious occasion.” Meanwhile, ISKCON national campaigner Yudhishthir Govind Das said the city was ready for a ‘historic moment’.

“Devotees around the world have been eagerly waiting for this day for 500 years. Ayodhya has been rebuilt and given a proper makeover. ISKCON will also organize several events in its temples across the world on January 22. We will organize Ram Katha and events.” Bhandara that day,” he told ANI.

The idol of Sri Rama Lalla carved by Mysuru sculptor Arun Yogiraj was placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. The first picture of the veil-covered idol was revealed during the installation ceremony in the sanctum sanctorum on Thursday.

The Center has announced a half-day for all government offices and institutions on January 22, while public sector banks will also allow their employees to leave early on that day.

Taking the cue, several states have also declared January 22 as a holiday for government employees, allowing them to participate in celebrations around ‘Pran Pratishtha’.