As Ayodhya gears up for the momentous Ram Temple consecration ceremony, a chorus of kindness is rising from various corners of the holy city. Hundreds of community kitchens, run by groups as diverse as Nihang Sikhs to local temple trusts, are spreading the warmth of ‘langar’ – free, hot meals – to the throngs of devotees pouring in.
Every street corner hums with the aroma of freshly cooked food, offering weary pilgrims a welcome respite from the winter chill. Khichdi, aloo puri, kadhi chawal, and simple staples like pickles and papads are the common language of these kitchens, uniting hearts with every comforting bite.
The spirit of service burns bright. A group of Nihang Sikhs, led by Baba Harjit Singh Rasulpur, arrived from afar to offer their “Langar sewa” for two months. Their presence honors the sacrifices of their ancestors in the Ram Mandir movement, while their generosity nourishes the bodies and souls of contemporary devotees.
And it’s not just about one group. The Mahavir Temple trust from Patna runs the ‘Ram ki Rasoi’, feeding over 10,000 people daily. This number is expected to skyrocket as the temple opens its doors, with the trust and people across the country ensuring a steady flow of resources to keep the stoves burning.
These community kitchens are more than just food providers; they are testaments to the enduring spirit of Indian hospitality, unity, and faith. They weave a tapestry of service, stitching together the diverse threads of devotion, compassion, and selflessness.
As the air of Ayodhya vibrates with anticipation, these langars offer a nourishing haven for pilgrims. They are a reminder that amidst the grand spectacle, the essence of this occasion lies in the simple act of giving, one comforting meal at a time.
Ayodhya is alive with the sound of service and the hum of devotion, all surrounded by the golden warmth of expectancy. With the approaching auspicious consecration of the Ram Lalla idol, the holy city is revealing itself like a magnificent tapestry of faith, kindness, and cultural richness.
ISKCON, a beacon of divine love, welcomes pilgrims with fragrant lunch prasad and the wisdom of Vedic scriptures. 5,000 souls find nourishment not just for their bodies, but also for their hearts, embraced by the sounds of “sankirtan” sung by devotees from across the globe.
The air pulsates with the anticipation of a historic moment. The first phase of the Ram temple nears completion, ready to become a permanent abode for Lord Ram. The Supreme Court’s verdict, echoing years of longing, has transformed Ayodhya into a canvas of vibrant celebration.
Streetlights shimmer with depictions of Lord Ram’s bow and arrow, while lamp posts dance with intricate designs of the “Ramanandi tilak.” Saffron flags flutter proudly, carrying the spirit of devotion, and towering cutouts of Ram and Sita grace the central dividers of the Ram Path.
But the spirit of Ayodhya extends beyond grand displays. Locals, blessed with the economic surge accompanying the temple’s rise, join hands to offer free meals at their restaurants and build guest houses for weary pilgrims. Their selfless service weaves a thread of generosity into the city’s vibrant fabric.
From Chandigarh, the Gauri Shankar Sewa Dal prepares to offer a month-long “langar” of makke ki roti and sarson ka saag, nourishing bodies and souls in equal measure. The aroma of devotion will mingle with the fragrance of spices, creating a symphony of service that echoes through the streets.
Ramlilas, Bhagwat Kathas, Bhajan sandhyas, and cultural programs paint the city with the colors of tradition. The banks of the Saryu river, where thousands gather for the evening aarti, shimmer with festive lights, reflecting the city’s radiant joy.
Even the trees, adorned with inverted baskets and twinkling lights, become silent participants in this grand celebration. Ayodhya, adorned in devotion and service, awaits the momentous occasion with a heart ready to overflow with love and gratitude.