21-05-2025
Summer Diet, Cold Bath & More: Ayodhya's Blazing Heat Sparks Changes To Ram Lalla's Routine
Ayodhya faces peak summer heat. Ram Mandir adapts offerings and rituals to keep Lord Ram Lalla cool and comfortable
As temperatures soar across North India, the city of Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, revered as the birthplace of Lord Ram, is experiencing an especially intense heatwave. In response, the Ram Mandir Trust has introduced thoughtful changes to rituals and offerings, ensuring comfort not only for devotees but also for Lord Ram Lalla, the child form of the deity worshipped in the temple.
Cooling Adjustments in Bhog Seva: The Trust has modified the traditional Bhog Seva, adapting the food offerings to suit the harsh summer climate. Lord Ram Lalla is now served light, easily digestible meals and cooling beverages, replacing heavier items typically offered in other seasons.
Cold Water Baths for Refreshment: To further ease the effects of the heat, Lord Ram Lalla is being bathed in cold water, a ritual believed to bring both physical and spiritual relief. The priests report that these baths help maintain freshness and a serene atmosphere in the sanctum.
Summer Additions to Balbhog and Rajbhog: The Balbhog, or morning offering, now includes lassi and mango juice, providing a refreshing start to the day for the deity. Similarly, the Rajbhog, a more substantial meal, has also been adjusted to include only foods that are gentle on the stomach and suited to summer conditions.
As Lord Ram Lalla is venerated in the form of a five-year-old child, the Ram Mandir Trust is taking special care, much like any guardian would during extreme weather. Administrator Gopal Rao and temple priests are personally overseeing the arrangements, ensuring that every aspect of service, from food to rituals, is tailored to the comfort and wellbeing of the divine. Seasonal fruits, cool drinks, and mindful offerings are all part of this carefully curated summer regimen.
These considerate steps taken by the temple reflect a deep devotion not just in worship, but in care, reminding devotees of the warmth of faith that continues to endure, even in the harshest of summers.
First Published:
May 21, 2025, 12:09 IST
