See how science meets spirituality: Ayodhya’s Ram Temple witnesses sunlit miracle!
At exactly noon on Ram Navami, a groundbreaking event took place at the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The idol of Ram Lalla was anointed with a ‘Surya Tilak,’ a ray of sunlight precisely engineered to hit the deity’s forehead. This unique blend of spirituality and cutting-edge science involved the use of a 5.8-centimeter beam of light directed by a specially designed instrument, marking a significant achievement in both cultural and scientific fields.
The operation was made possible by a sophisticated apparatus called the ‘Surya Tilak mechanism.’ Designed and constructed by a team of ten esteemed scientists from leading government institutions, this device cleverly manipulated mirrors and lenses to channel sunlight directly onto the idol’s forehead. This mechanism, which functioned flawlessly for about 3 to 3.5 minutes, represents a significant engineering feat, showcasing the potential of scientific expertise in enhancing religious and cultural practices.
Dr. Pradeep Kumar Ramacharla, a Scientist and Director at the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI) in Roorkee, detailed the technical workings of the system to NDTV. “The opto-mechanical system includes four mirrors and four lenses integrated within a tilt mechanism to direct sunlight precisely. This setup, coated internally to prevent light scattering and fitted with an infrared filter to minimize heat, showcases an advanced approach to harnessing solar power in a culturally significant context,” explained Dr. Ramacharla.
Discover the blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge science at Ayodhya’s Ram Temple where sunlight anoints Ram Lalla on Ram Navami.
The development of the ‘Surya Tilak’ mechanism is a collaborative effort involving CBRI and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIAP) in Bengaluru. The design incorporates a special gearbox and advanced solar tracking techniques to ensure that the sunlight is perfectly aligned with the statue every year on Ram Navami, without the use of electricity or modern power sources.
This event not only emphasizes the technical prowess of Indian scientists but also resonates deeply with cultural heritage, linking modern technology with ancient traditions. The mechanism’s success during the Ram Navami celebrations serves as a powerful symbol of India’s capability to blend tradition with modern technology in meaningful ways.
The successful implementation of the ‘Surya Tilak’ at Ayodhya’s Ram Temple is a remarkable example of how traditional cultural practices can be supported and enhanced through scientific innovation. This event may inspire similar technological advancements in other areas of cultural significance, potentially leading to a new era where tradition and technology create synergistic outcomes.