As Ayodhya Celebrates Return Of Ram, Communal Amity On Show At Special Prayers In Karnataka Shrine

Karnataka which is believed as birthplace of Lord Hanuman, the revered devotee of Shri Ram, was abuzz with preparations for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya on Monday.

The Hindus and Muslims in Koppal city of Karnataka gathered at Shri Ram temple in the district and offered special 'puja' on Monday. The pooja was significant since it was held on the same day as Pran Pratishtha ceremony scheduled at Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. 

On Monday, leaders from both communities gathered at Shri Ram Mandir in the Bhagyanagar locality of Koppal city. Muslim attendees joined Hindu leaders in performing 'aarti' and partaking in distributing 'prasada' after the worship. The joint ritual was held in a display of unity and mutual respect.

The gesture garnered appreciation and praise from people across the state with photos and videos circulated widely on social media.

Karnataka, which proudly asserts itself as the presumed birthplace of Lord Hanuman, the revered devotee of Shri Ram, was abuzz with preparations for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya on Monday. Cities, towns, and villages throughout the state, including the IT hub Bengaluru, were adorned in saffron hues as devotees, Hindu activists, and BJP leaders displayed flags, posters, and banners.

Despite the Karnataka government, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, not officially declaring a holiday, the enthusiasm and excitement were palpable across the state. Temples were adorned with decorations, and special 'puja' ceremonies were offered during the inauguration of the Ram temple. On the Shri Ram Pran Pratishtha ceremony, BJP leader and former Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai said, "The 'Maryada Pushottam' Shri Ram's idol has been installed by the modern 'Maryada Purshottam' PM Narendra Modi. This is the beginning of Ram Rajya in India. This is why PM Modi has called the next 25 years as 'Amrit Kaal'."

Meanwhile, in response to the increased number of devotees visiting temples, particularly Hanuman and Ram temples in Bengaluru, the police department heightened security measures. Patrols were conducted to ensure the safety of the premises and to prevent any untoward incidents.