Lord Ram's Consecration: Countdown On As 'Prayashchit Puja' Begins

Ahead of Ram Lalla's consecration on January 22, the rituals have started with the atonement (Prayashchit puja). This series of rituals will conclude on January 22.

- ASHISH SINHA

At present, not only Ayodhya but the entire country is in 'Rammay'.

Nepal is celebrating Rammay too. Celebrations are taking place in Sri Lanka, and a special holiday has been declared in Mauritius.

Besides, Ramnaam chanting, Hanuman Chalisa and Sunderkand are being recited in Hindu temples across the world.

Prayashchit puja started on Tuesday in the Ram temple in Ayodhya Dham. This puja is done for the sake of the host so that the sins committed through the physical and cognitive senses can be atoned before the consecration of Ram Lalla.

This puja marks the beginning of the Pran Pratishtha rituals. Atonement puja is being performed by 121 Vedapathi ritualist Brahmins.

What is Prasyachta Puja Prayashchit Puja is a penance ritual performed before the consecration of Ramlala.

This includes atonement in all three dimensions - physical, internal and mental. External atonement involves ten ritual baths of the host including pancha dravya and other specified materials. Godaan Praashishtha is also organised, where the host takes a pledge to atone through donations. Monetary donations, including contributions of gold, are made as part of this process.

WHO DOES TAPA?

Atonement puja is done by the host, it is not done by ordinary pundits. The primary purpose of this puja is to atone for sins committed intentionally or unintentionally through a purification process that seeks forgiveness for any transgression.

KARMAKUTI PUJA