Massive turnout at Ayodhya’s Ram temple: Devotees take holy dip, witness Surya Tilak on Ram Navami

Ayodhya became the spiritual epicentre of India. Tens of thousands of devotees poured into the temple town to mark Ram Navami, the birthday of Lord Ram, with devotion, prayer and celebration.

The day began with ritual baths in the Saryu River, a tradition followed by pilgrims before entering the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. The temple itself had been transformed into a visual spectacle—bright lights, intricate flower arrangements and chants filled the air.

A devotee at the site said, “…I am feeling very good after coming here… The arrangements here are very good…”

Another, who travelled from Varanasi, shared, “I have come from Varanasi to offer prayers at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple on the occasion of Ram Navami…”

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Surya Tilak marks divine moment

The highlight of the day came precisely at 12 noon, when sunlight touched the forehead of Ram Lalla inside the sanctum. Known as the Surya Tilak, the celestial event was made possible through scientific alignment and architectural precision.

For many, this was a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Ayodhya officials anticipated a turnout of 20 to 30 lakh people, and preparations reflected that scale.

Crowd management inspired by Mahakumbh

The arrangements were drawn from lessons learnt during Mahakumbh 2025, ensuring crowd control and basic amenities on a mass scale.

Speaking on the preparations, Additional SP Madhuban Singh said, “People come in large numbers to offer prayers on the occasion of Ram Navami… Police personnel have been deployed in large numbers to ensure the safety and security of devotees… Proper parking arrangements have also been made…”

Divisional Commissioner Gaurav Dayal added, “To protect devotees from the sun and heat, arrangements have been made for