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Hyderabad: In an extraordinary display of devotion, Challa Srinivas Shastry, a 64-year-old man from Hyderabad, has embarked on a 7,200-kilometre padayatra – a journey on foot – to Ayodhya. Shastry carrying a pair of gold-studded traditional wooden sandals, known as ‘Khadaun Charan Paduka’, for the ‘Pran Pratistha’ ceremony of the Ram temple to be held on January 22, 2024.
In an act of utter devotion towards Lord Ram, Sastry’s padayatra mirrors Lord Rama’s Vanavas– his period of exile – but in reverse. He is following the Ayodhya-Rameswaram route, touching Shiva Lingas on the way that were installed by Lord Rama. His journey is a testament to his devotion and the broader context of pilgrimage in Hindu traditions. Shastry is expected to reach Ayodhya on January 15, 2024.
Upon his arrival in Ayodhya, 64-year-old Shastry aims to hand over the ‘Charan Paduka’ to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath before the consecration ceremony on January 16. This symbolic act is a affirmation of the deep cultural and spiritual ties associated with the temple.
The ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony will mark the consecration of the idol of the deity in the temple, which symbolizes the abode of the divine soul. The celebrations will last for seven days, starting on January 16, with Prime Minister Modi presiding over the consecration of the idol at the grand temple. Thousands of dignitaries and people from all sections of the society are expected to attend it.
Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, holds immense spiritual, historical and cultural significance for the people. The event is expected to be grand, with 4,000 saints invited to the ceremony. This journey of Shastri, carrying the ‘Charan Paduka’ and replicating the exile journey of Lord Rama, symbolizes the anticipation and spiritual excitement surrounding the upcoming event.
