27 March,2026 02:01 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Prime Minister Narendra Modi. File Photo
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday witnessed the sacred âSurya Tilak' ceremony of Ram Lalla on the occasion of Ram Navami, observing the ritual virtually and offering prayers for the well-being and prosperity of the nation.
The ceremony, held at the Ram Mandir Ayodhya, is considered one of the most spiritually significant moments of the festival, drawing widespread attention from devotees across the country.
Ram Navami marks the birth of Lord Ram, regarded as the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Celebrated during the nine-day Chaitra Navratri, the festival symbolises values such as truth, compassion, and righteousness.
In his message to the nation, Prime Minister Modi extended greetings to citizens and emphasised the enduring relevance of Lord Ram's ideals. He noted that the life of Lord Ram continues to inspire people to face challenges with strength, discipline, and moral clarity.
In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister expressed hope that the blessings of Lord Ram would guide the nation towards becoming a developed and self-reliant country.
He stated that the teachings and ideals associated with Lord Ram are not only relevant for India but hold universal significance for humanity. He also prayed for the welfare of all citizens and reaffirmed the government's commitment to national development and progress.
The Surya Tilak ceremony involves directing a precisely aligned beam of sunlight onto the forehead of the idol, symbolising divine energy and cosmic alignment. The ritual has emerged as a major spiritual attraction at the Ayodhya temple, especially during Ram Navami celebrations.
The event gained significant prominence following the grand celebrations held in 2024, when the temple witnessed a massive influx of devotees. The unique solar alignment during the ceremony, lasting a few minutes, captivated millions both at the site and through live broadcasts.
Prime Minister Modi had previously encouraged devotees worldwide to witness the ceremony, particularly after the consecration of the Ram temple. The ritual continues to strengthen the spiritual and cultural connection of devotees with Ayodhya.
Lord Ram remains a central figure in India's cultural and spiritual traditions, symbolising duty, integrity, and ethical governance. Festivals like Ram Navami serve as an occasion for reflection on these timeless values, reinforcing their importance in contemporary society.
