Ayodhya: Presiding seer of Hanuman Garhi steps out after centuries to visit Ram Temple

Amidst the sounds of trumpets, chants of “Jai Shri Ram” and flower petals being showered at various points, the procession comprising Panch of Nirvani Akhara as well as Naga Sadhus, first took snan (holy bath) in the Saryu River and from there the procession left for Ram Temple.

“The Shobha Yatra left Hanuman Garhi around 7:30 am with Sadhus of all the Pattis. They took bath at Naya Ghat and then left for darshan at Ram Janmabhoomi, where it ended. Police force was deployed for security at various points and traffic diversions were done in advance for the same,” said Madhuban Singh, Superintendent of Police, Ayodhya.

Ayodhya Mayor Girish Tripathi said it was a “matter of pride” for the residents of Ayodhya as they got to witness the “historic moment.” “Hanuman Garhi is the chief seat of Nirvani Akhara. It is a belief regarding Gaddi Nasheen that he does not leave his Hanuman Garhi premises. But, taking inspiration from Lord Hanuman, he (Das) visited Ram Lalla after taking bath at Saryu river,” said Tripathi.

“There is joy among the people of Ayodhya that they witnessed this historic moment. The Shobha Yatra was welcomed at various locations along the route.”

After taking bath at Saryu River amidst chanting of mantras, Das said that he also observed a few minutes’ silence after taking bath to pray for the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack.

Accompanied by sadhus and chief functionaries of Nirvani Akhara, he offered 56 different “Bhog” (offerings) at the Ram Temple.