Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed gratitude to all citizens of the country, the devotees of Lord Ram and the Indian diaspora across the world during the foundation stone laying ceremony of Ram Temple at Ayodhya.
This is the first time that a Prime Minister has visited Ram Janmabhoomi to offer prayers at the sanctum sanctorum where the deity has been worshipped since 1949.
The Prime Minister started his address with "Jai Shri Ram" chant. "This chant is not just echoing in Ayodhya but in the entire world," he said.
He also said that Ram Lalla (infant Lord Ram) who has been living in tents for years will finally get a temple of his own now.
"Today, Ram Janmbhoomi breaks free of the cycle of breaking and getting built again – that had been going on for centuries," said PM Modi.
"Lord Ram is in our hearts, whatever work we have to do he is our inspiration," the prime minister added.
He further said that attempts were made to finish the existence, but Lord Ram is the basis of India's culture.
Modi said that the movement for building a Ram temple had dedication, struggle and resolve. I bow to those people whose sacrifice has made this possible, said Modi.
Before the ceremony, the prime minister visited the Hanuman Garhi temple where he performed aarti of Lord Hanuman. Ramesh Das, the head mahant of the temple, gifted a turban and a crown to PM Modi.
PM Modi has come to Ayodhya after a gap of 29 years. It was in 1991 when he last visited the city.
