The remarkable event scheduled for January 22 in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, it is reportedly estimated that 7,000 individuals will witness the consecration ceremony of the Ram Kshetra. With an estimated cost exceeding INR 18 billion, this project stands out as one of India’s most expensive and culturally significant endeavors in recent years.
The Ram Kshetra, spanning 70 acres, features the main temple standing at 161 feet, accompanied by three tiers and twelve gates, making it an architectural spectacle. The entire complex, estimated to cost INR 2,989 crore, secures the second position in the list of India’s most costly public monuments, following the Statue of Unity.
Beyond the temple construction, Ayodhya is undergoing comprehensive development initiatives. As part of the INR 30,570 crore allocated in the budget, various projects focus on enhancing the city’s aesthetics and infrastructure. These include 187 schemes by the Uttar Pradesh government, 4,688 crore for the National Highways Authority of India, and 3,595 crore for the Jal Shakti Ministry’s water-related projects.
Initiated in February 2020, the Ram Kshetra Trust, responsible for the temple’s construction, has accumulated over INR 3,500 crore in donations. With funds directed towards the temple’s completion, the trust is expected to engage in numerous charitable activities in the coming years.
The construction of the temple, spread across three phases, is projected to be completed by December 2024, with final touches expected to conclude in 2025. The entire project, spanning 60 acres, includes the main temple, three courtyards, and twelve gates, showcasing a blend of modern technology and traditional architecture.
In addition to the temple, the Trust has undertaken various developmental projects in Ayodhya, transforming the city into a cultural and tourist hub. With contributions from political leaders, including INR 11 lakh from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and INR 5 lakh from former President Ram Nath Kovind, the Trust has garnered significant support.
The Ram Temple project is not merely a testament to religious and cultural sentiments but also a catalyst for Ayodhya’s overall development. As the city evolves into a global pilgrimage destination, the Ram Kshetra stands as a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage and its commitment to harmonizing tradition with progress.
