The inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is fast approaching. The installation of the idol of Lord Ram Lalla is scheduled to take place after the consecration ceremony on January 22, 2024. With the construction work nearing completion, preparations are in full swing, and anticipation is high for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. Notably, numerous VVIPs and celebrities from around the world are expected to grace the occasion.
Invitations for the Pran Pratishtha are being sent throughout the country. Devotees of Lord Ram are passionately going door to door, traditionally extending invitations by presenting Akshat, or rice, as a symbol of the invitation. In Hindu tradition, Akshat, often yellow rice dyed with turmeric, has been historically used to invite people to festivals or events.
Renowned astrologer Dr Gaurav Dixit has shed light on the significance of the rice received as part of the invitation. According to him, rice symbolizes the planet Venus, associated with wealth, glory, Lakshmi, and material comforts. Dr Dixit advises that the rice should be kept intact in a safe, tied with a red silk cloth. By doing so, he suggests that both Mars and Moon will become active, creating Lakshmi Yoga and ushering happiness into the household.
Dr Gaurav Dixit recommends several auspicious practices with the received rice. Firstly, he suggests making kheer with rice, considering it to be of great importance. This kheer can then be utilized as prasad and distributed among others, symbolizing prosperity in one’s life.
Another practice Dr Dixit proposes is applying the rice as a tilak, especially before embarking on significant endeavours. The rice, being associated with the consecration of Lord Ram’s life, is deemed auspicious and can serve as a symbol of good fortune.
For brides who have recently entered matrimony, Dr. Dixit advises using the rice to prepare their first dish in the kitchen. This act is believed to bring happiness and maintain harmony in the household. As the nation eagerly awaits the momentous inauguration, these traditional practices add a layer of cultural richness to the event, blending spirituality with age-old customs.
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