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Ayodhya: In an unprecedented display of devotion, a massive crowd flocked to Ayodhya for the annual 14-kosi parikrama, commencing from the Naka Hanuman Garhi temple and concluding much earlier than scheduled on Tuesday evening. The fervor among devotees was such that they embarked on the 42-km pilgrimage well before the auspicious time of 2.09 am.
This extraordinary turnout is attributed to the ongoing construction of the Ram temple, slated to open its doors to devotees on January 22 next year. Devotees started gathering at various starting points, including Guptar Ghat, Lakshman Ghat, Sant Tulsidas Ghat, Surya Kund, Girja Kund, and Naka Hanuman Garhi, since Monday evening.
The main parikrama, under the vigilant eye of the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) of the state police, set off from the Naka Hanuman Garhi temple. Security agencies closely monitored the pilgrimage route using drones and CCTV cameras spread across the 42-km stretch. Public spaces in the temple town, such as the railway station, bus stand, and parks, were bustling with devotees.
Considering that many participants undertake the yatra barefoot, the Ayodhya administration ensured the entire route was covered in sand. Special arrangements were made for snacks and tea along the pilgrimage route, while ambulances and medical camps were strategically stationed for any emergencies.
Key officials, including divisional commissioner Gaurav Dayal, district magistrate Nitish Kumar, IG Praveen Kumar, and SSP Raj Karan Nayyar, oversaw the yatra, with the city divided into five zones for security enforcement. A comprehensive team of magistrates was deployed to guarantee the successful completion of the parikrama.
Panch Kosi Parikrama
Looking ahead, Ayodhya is gearing up for the Panch Kosi Parikrama starting from 9:25 pm on Wednesday and concluding at 7:21 pm on Thursday. The Kartik Purnima Snan is scheduled to commence at 3:11 pm on November 26 and conclude at 2:36 pm the following day. The city continues to witness an influx of devotees, marking these significant events with grandeur and spiritual fervor.
