A Temple Triumphs

Ayodhya is all decked up, having undergone a rapid transformation in the recent past. Its residents are torn between the temple town then and now

- Vikram Raj

Acacophony  of sounds created by hammers and pickaxes reverberates through the lanes and by-lanes of Ayodhya days ahead of the inauguration of the Ram temple. Diligent labourers are toiling day and night, giving finishing touches to the temple town. Roads have been widened, pavements built, and the outer facades of buildings around the temple are being embellished with intricate designs.

The yellow and saffron paint on the front walls of the temple is still fresh. The shutters of shops in the vicinity are proudly displaying symbols like trishuls and bow and arrows. There is a fierce-looking Hanuman on one of the shutters.

Ayodhya is all decked up, watching its own rapid transformation.

Residents, however, feel the once-serene town has lost its peaceful charm, giving way to an overwhelming grandiosity that might not resonate well with everyone. The tranquility that once defined Ayodhya has been overshadowed by the imposing new identity of the town itself. While the increased influx of visitors highlights the town’s prominence, it has also led to concerns about overcrowding and potential strain on the local infrastructure. The present-day Ayodhya is a complete contrast to what it was before. Commercialisation has taken centre stage. Locals have been wondering about the cultural implications of this dramatic shift. The transformation, after all, has come at a cost.