Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embraced a unique spiritual discipline in preparation for the upcoming Pran Pratishtha of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Engaging in an 11-day ‘anusthan’ or special ritual, he has been observed sleeping on the floor and adhering strictly to a coconut water-only diet. Commencing this spiritual journey on January 12, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude for being a part of this “historic” and “auspicious” occasion.

In his announcement, Prime Minister Modi articulated that he considers himself an instrument chosen by God to represent all Indians during the Pran Pratishtha exercise. Undertaking this 11-day religious practice, he is dedicated to following the principles of ‘Yam Niyam,’ encompassing austere measures such as yoga, meditation, and discipline outlined in scriptures. Already incorporating many of these disciplines into his daily life, including waking up before sunrise, practicing meditation, and consuming ‘satvik’ (pure) food, the Prime Minister has now added a strict fast with penance to his routine for these 11 days.

Consecration, defined as the manifestation of divine consciousness in the deity’s idol, is a focal point leading up to the January 22 Pran Pratishtha. The idol of Ram Lalla was ceremoniously brought into the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on Wednesday night, according to Shri Ram Mandir Construction Committee chairperson Nripendra Mishra. The installation of the idol in the sanctum sanctorum is anticipated to be completed soon.

With the consecration ceremony approaching, various rituals are being diligently performed until the eve of the event. Prime Minister Modi is set to be the chief guest at the ceremony, marking the inauguration of the Ram temple. The temple trust estimates that over 7,000 attendees, including politicians, celebrities, industrialists, and saints, will participate in the event, making it a significant and widely attended occasion.