Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Attends Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha Second Anniversary in Ayodhya, Says Grand Temple for Goddess Janaki to Be Built After Lord Ram
Ayodhya marked the second anniversary of Ram Lalla’s Pran Pratishtha with grand religious ceremonies, as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and UP CM Yogi Adityanath participated in key rituals at the Ram Janmabhoomi complex on Wednesday (December 31).
On this occasion, Rajnath Singh hoisted the flag at the Annapurna Temple, while CM Yogi was present alongside him. Thereafter, both leaders performed aarti of Ram Lalla and offered prayers at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. Meanwhile, a series of religious rituals, including kalash sthapana, havan, mantra chanting and special worship, were conducted throughout the day.
Temple authorities, meanwhile, deployed additional security personnel and volunteers to ensure smooth darshan for devotees. As a result, pilgrims reported a peaceful and spiritually uplifting experience on the auspicious day of Pratishtha Dwadashi.
‘I Feel Deeply Blessed to Be Here,’ Says Rajnath Singh
Addressing the gathering, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh began his speech with chants of “Siya Var Ramchandra Ki Jai.” He said that he felt deeply emotional and fulfilled after visiting the sacred land of Ayodhya. Notably, he recalled that Lord Ram was enthroned in the grand temple after a wait of 500 years, calling the Ram Mandir one of the world’s most significant movements and narratives.
Furthermore, Singh said the Ram Temple would continue to inspire humanity for thousands of years through the life and values of Lord Ram. He added that Ayodhya is progressing rapidly under the “double-engine government,” with developments such as a new airport, railway station and solar city projects.
Drawing a parallel between Lord Ram’s ideals and India’s defence approach, Singh referred to Operation Sindoor. He stated that India acted with restraint and discipline during the operation, targeting terrorists in a limited and controlled manner. Therefore, he said, the operation reflected the values of Lord Ram and showed India’s commitment to moral warfare. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to build a grand temple for Goddess Sita in Sitamarhi.
Ayodhya Witnessed the Outcomes of the Ram Janmabhoomi Movement: CM Yogi
CM Yogi began his address with slogans of “Jai Siya Ram,” “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” and “Vande Bharat.” He said that Ayodhya has witnessed many consequences of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement since Independence. However, he alleged that earlier governments neglected the city due to appeasement politics, turning it into a zone of conflict and neglect.
Recalling the 2005 terror attack attempt, CM Yogi said the PAC personnel neutralised the terrorists and protected the sacred site. Moreover, he highlighted that over 45 crore devotees have visited Ayodhya in the last five years, which was unimaginable earlier due to lack of basic facilities.
Now, he said, Ayodhya has improved connectivity, infrastructure and employment opportunities, including schemes linked to religious tourism. As a result, devotees return from the city feeling spiritually fulfilled. Concluding his speech, CM Yogi extended New Year greetings to the people of Uttar Pradesh and the country.
Overall, the second anniversary of Ram Lalla’s Pran Pratishtha reflected not only religious devotion but also Ayodhya’s transformation into a major spiritual and cultural centre of India.
