The first Aastha Special Train departed from Secunderabad Railway Station on Monday (February 5), carrying the first group of devotees bound for Ayodhya. A total of 1,346 devotees boarded the train, filling the station with resounding chants of ‘Jai Sri Ram’
The initiative by the Indian Railways aims to ensure the comfort and well-being of devotees throughout their sacred journey.
Ramesh Ram, BJP incharge for the maiden voyage to Ayodhya, expressed the significance of the journey, stating, “In this train, 1,346 devotees are going to Ayodhya. We have prepared a special kit comprising 13 essential items for Lord Ram devotees, including soap, ORS bottles, grooming essentials, snacks, and beverages.”
A devotee said, “We are going to travel from Hyderabad to Ayodhya. We wish to thank PM Modi for fulfilling the dream of the last 500 years. Today is a very important day. This is the first Ayodhya-bound train from Hyderabad flagged of by Union Minister G Kishan Reddy. Devotees from all age groups are going to Ayodhya by this train.” Another devotee Ramoji said that he became karsevak during 90’s.
“We are very happy. Nearly 3000 temples were demolished during the Mughal empire and mosques were built. Till today we cannot offer prayers at the Gyanvapi complex. We will reach Ayodhya tomorrow. Since thousand years invaders have looted the country,” he said.
Ayodhya ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony
The journey to Ayodhya holds profound significance, particularly following the recent ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony of Shri Ram Lalla at the historic temple on January 22. The event saw the participation of about 8,000 invitees, including 1,500-1,600 eminent guests.
Led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and attended by dignitaries including Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the event marked a pivotal moment in the nation’s spiritual and cultural landscape.
(With agency inputs)