The White Marble Idol of Ram Lalla Unable to Reach the Main Temple

The world recently bore witness to a momentous ceremony, as the historic placement of the striking black-colored Ram Lalla idol took place in the Ram Mandir, accompanied by the sacred pran pratishtha ceremony. However, what many may not be aware of is the intriguing competition among three Ram Lalla idols, vying for their place in the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

The selected 51-inch black granite idol, now adorning the temple, was meticulously sculpted by Arun Yogiraj from Mysuru. Crafted from a rock unearthed in an excavation, this particular rock boasts a staggering age of 2.5 billion years. According to HS Venkatesh from the National Institute of Rock Mechanics, the enduring nature of this rock ensures resistance to climatic variations, making it capable of withstanding thousands of years with minimal maintenance. Originating from Karnataka, this rock was excavated in the Gujjegowdanapura region in Mysuru.

In contrast, the equally exquisite white marble version of the Ram Lalla idol, created by sculptor Satyanarayan Pandey from Rajasthan, did not secure a place in the sanctum sanctorum. However, temple authorities have decided to place this intricately carved white idol elsewhere within the temple. The craftsmanship of this white idol is remarkable, featuring Ram Lalla holding a golden bow and arrow against an arch-like structure adorned with smaller sculptures depicting various incarnations of Lord Vishnu. The idol’s jewelry and clothing are adorned with marble, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail by the sculptor.

Another sculptor, Ganesh Bhatt from Karnataka, also crafted a sculpture that, much like Pandey’s, did not make it to the main temple but will find its place elsewhere within the temple complex.

The chosen sculptor for the historic event, Yogiraj, who created the black marble idol of Ram Lalla, expressed overwhelming joy and emotion during the pran pratistha ceremony in Ayodhya. Considering it the best day of his life, Yogiraj conveyed his belief that Lord Ram guided him in this sacred task. He acknowledged the sleepless nights spent ensuring precision in the idol’s creation, underscoring the significance of the moment for both the sculptor and the devotees.

This unique competition among the three idols adds a fascinating layer to the narrative of the Ram Mandir, emphasizing the craftsmanship, devotion, and individual stories behind each creation. As the selected black granite idol now stands in the sanctum sanctorum, the white marble and another sculpture by Bhatt find their respective places, contributing to the rich tapestry of artistic and spiritual expressions within the temple.

In conclusion, the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya not only stands as a symbol of religious and cultural significance but also as a testament to the diverse artistic talents that contributed to its creation. The unique journey of each sculptor and their creations adds depth to the spiritual aura of the temple, inviting visitors and devotees to appreciate the intricacies and stories embedded within its sacred walls.