The management committee of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya has requested that local devotees temporarily defer their visits. This advisory suggests residents in and around the Ayodhya area postpone their planned darshan (viewing) for a period of 15 to 20 days.

Reason for the Delay

The request stems from an unprecedented surge in pilgrims arriving in Ayodhya, which is directly linked to the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj.

The massive influx is straining the temple’s logistical capacity, making it challenging to manage the crowds and ensure a smooth experience for all visitors. The surge is particularly high around key dates of the Maha Kumbh, such as the upcoming Mauni Amavasya ‘Mukhya Snan’ (main bathing ritual), scheduled for January 29, 2025. It is estimated that approximately 10 crore devotees are expected to participate in the holy dip in Prayagraj, with many subsequently traveling to Ayodhya.

The Appeal

The temple committee’s appeal is a logistical measure intended to prioritize the convenience of distant travelers. By asking local devotees to wait a couple of weeks, the committee hopes to ease congestion and allow pilgrims who have traveled long distances from across the country and the world to have an easier and safer experience offering prayers to Shri Ram Lalla.

The advisory reflects the concerted efforts by both the temple administration and the state government to manage what is one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, with authorities intensifying security and logistical preparations to accommodate the overwhelming number of visitors.