The Ram Janmabhoomi Temple management committee in Ayodhya has issued an advisory asking local devotees to postpone their visits for 15-20 days, in light of the massive influx of pilgrims drawn by the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj.
The advisory comes just ahead of the ‘Mukhya Snan’ (main bathing ritual) for Mauni Amavasya, scheduled for January 29, 2025, which is expected to see around 10 crore devotees take a holy dip at the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. Many of these pilgrims are also making their way to Ayodhya to offer prayers at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, significantly increasing the pressure on the temple’s facilities.
In the last few days, the number of visitors to Ayodhya has gone up and the temple administration is worried in terms of space. It has further resulted in all kinds of logistic issues, longer waiting in lines, and delay in delivery for all devotees to get a glimpse of Shri Ram Lalla. The temple management is making necessary adjustments to the arrangements to address these issues and prioritize the safety and comfort of visitors.
The committee has specifically asked the local devotees to plan a visit to Ayodhya 15-20 days later to avoid congestion and let pilgrims coming from distant locations have a hassle-free darshan experience during the peak period. The advisory said it was necessary for cooperation so that all devotees, irrespective of their origin, have a safe and meaningful visit.
Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government has strengthened security and logistical arrangements to cope with the surge of visitors for the Maha Kumbh. On Mauni Amavasya, which is likely to be the biggest day of the festival, almost 10 crore pilgrims are expected to gather for the Amrit Snan. Till date, more than 15 crore devotees have performed the holy rituals since the festival commenced on January 13.
It is considered that, in the end of the Maha Kumbh Mela being held after an interval of 12 years, from 40 crore to 45 crore pilgrims will attend the festival in the final events on February 26, 2025, which also makes it the largest gathering on this earth. On both ends of the management in the state, as well as the temple managements, is working with such an incredible spirit to make people visit there.