In the aftermath of the historic Ram Lalla idol consecration at the newly-constructed Ayodhya temple, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav revealed plans to develop locations associated with Lord Ram in the state into prominent tourist destinations.
Speaking to reporters on January 22, Yadav emphasised the significance of the idol consecration ceremony in Ayodhya, hailing it as a historic event. He declared that areas in the state connected to the Hindu deity would undergo development to become popular tourist spots.
"The Ram temple idol consecration ceremony was a historic event. The places where Lord Rama set his foot in Madhya Pradesh will be developed as tourist places," said Yadav.
Highlighting the event's symbolism, Yadav stated, "The mega idol consecration ceremony in the Uttar Pradesh town heralds the coming of 'Ram Rajya,' an ancient concept that denotes a harmonious society without discrimination."
Extending congratulations to the country's citizens on the Ram Lalla idol consecration in Ayodhya, the CM offered prayers to Lord Ram, ignited sparklers, and chanted "Jai Shri Ram" at his residence.
Earlier in the day, Yadav witnessed the consecration ceremony from the Ram Raja Temple in Orchha town, Niwari district. Accompanied by former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, both leaders offered prayers at the temple, also known as Chhoti Ayodhya.
On Jan 22, PM Modi inaugurated the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The ceremony, attended by thousands, showcased the unveiling of the 51-inch black stone idol of the five-year-old god, Ram Lalla. PM Modi, carrying a silver umbrella for the deity, ascended the 32 steps to enter the temple, delivering a 40-minute speech that intertwined faith with governance, emphasising the event as a milestone for nation-building.
"22nd January 2024 is not a mere date; it's the origin of a new kal chakra (era)… We have to expand our consciousness from dev to desh, Ram to rashtra—from deity to nation," he said.
(With inputs from PTI)