In anticipation of the pran pratishtha (consecration ceremony) at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya scheduled for January 22, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, on January 21, called upon the residents of the state to illuminate lamps.
Addressing the media in Shimla after paying respects at the city’s Ram Mandir, Mr. Sukhu emphasized the non-partisan nature of Lord Ram, stating that Ram is an ideal figure for the people of Hindustan and embodies the culture of the country. Despite the Central government declaring a half-day holiday for the consecration ceremony, he announced a full-day holiday in the state and urged people to light lamps in their homes.
“The consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple is being organized in Ayodhya on Monday, and on this occasion, I will light a lamp in my house and encourage others to do the same,” he remarked.
To facilitate the celebration, the Himachal Pradesh government has officially declared a public holiday on January 22 under the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881. The notification specifies the closure of all boards, departments, corporations, schools, colleges, and universities on the day of the consecration ceremony of the idol of Shree Rama at Ram Temple Ayodhya.
Mr. Sukhu took the opportunity to urge people to incorporate the virtues of Ram, as well as the values and lessons from the Ramayan, into their lives. He appealed to everyone to follow the path shown by Lord Ram.
When asked about his plans to visit Ayodhya, Mr. Sukhu expressed his intention to visit Ayodhya in the near future.
