How Exactly Did They Get Surya Tilak On Ram Lalla At Ayodhya? Fascinating Science Behind It Explained

This marked the first Ram Navami since the consecration of the idol at the newly built Ram Mandir

by Nikitha Sebastian
How Exactly Did They Get Surya Tilak On Ram Lalla At Ayodhya? Fascinating Science Behind It Explained

This year’s Ram Navami in Ayodhya witnessed a unique and celestial event.  A ray of sunlight, meticulously directed using a system of mirrors and lenses, landed upon the forehead of the revered Ram Lalla idol, creating a ‘Surya Tilak’ – a divine mark bestowed by the sun itself. This marked the first Ram Navami since the consecration of the idol at the newly built Ram Mandir, making the occasion even more special.

The ‘Surya Tilak’ Project

The ‘Surya Tilak’ project, spearheaded by the temple trust, involved collaboration with scientists from a prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) – specifically, IIT Roorkee. Additionally, for expertise in solar movement, they consulted with the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA). Their goal was to focus a beam of sunlight onto the idol’s forehead precisely at noon during Ram Navami.

The challenge lay in the sun’s ever-changing position throughout the year. To address this, scientists performed intricate calculations, factoring in the date of Ram Navami, which repeats in a 19-year cycle. This meticulous planning, incorporating the expertise of the IIA on solar movements, ensured the sunlight would hit the target on the designated day.

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A Unique Synergy

On the auspicious day, devotees thronged the temple to witness this celestial spectacle. At the stroke of noon, a gasp rippled through the crowd as a beam of sunlight, concentrated by the mirror-and-lens apparatus devised by IIT Roorkee, illuminated Ram Lalla’s forehead for a mesmerising two to two-and-a-half minutes. The ’tilak’ itself was a respectable 58 mm in diameter.

For many devotees, this was a powerful affirmation of their faith. The ‘Surya Tilak’ wasn’t merely a scientific feat; it was a divine blessing bestowed upon the idol. The event was projected on large LED screens across Ayodhya. It allowed devotees who couldn’t enter the temple to partake in the experience.

Also Read: Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Local Economy Witnesses Major Growth Within 2 Months Of Temple Inauguration

The ‘Surya Tilak’ project is a testament to the ingenuity of Indian science and its harmonious blend with religious belief. The success of this project paves the way for similar endeavours in the future, fostering a unique synergy between science and spirituality.

Cover image Courtesy: @RAMSINGHYA97171, @Themohit_19/ X (Formerly, twitter)

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