In a momentous convergence of sports and spirituality, cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, and Virat Kohli have been extended invitations to attend the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. The ceremony, scheduled for January 22, promises to be a star-studded affair with notable cricketers marking their presence.
Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni have been invited to the Ram Temple 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony in Ayodhya Source: (X/Twitter)
Former India skipper Virat Kohli, fresh from his comeback to the T20 format, joined the esteemed list of invitees after India's victory over Afghanistan in the 2nd T20I. The invitation was personally delivered to Kohli and his actress-wife, Anushka Sharma, at their Mumbai residence.
Dhoni, the World Cup-winning captain, and Tendulkar, often referred to as the 'Master Blaster,' were among the early recipients of invitations to the prestigious event. Dhoni's invitation was presented by Dhananjay Singh, the co-province secretary of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), during the inauguration at the JSCA Stadium.
Gautam Gambhir, former India opener, also shared the honor of receiving an invitation for the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony, expressing his gratitude on social media.
The Vedic rituals for the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla commenced a week before the scheduled event, creating an atmosphere of spiritual significance. The grand ceremony is expected to conclude by 1 pm, followed by expressions of thoughts from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries in attendance.
Champat Rai, the General Secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, disclosed that traditional gifts in 1000 baskets have arrived from Nepal's Janakpur and areas of Mithila, adding a cultural touch to the event. However, on January 20 and 21, darshan will remain closed to the public.
The Ram Temple, a symbol of cultural and religious unity, will open its doors for 'darshan' to the general public starting January 23. This historic occasion is set to draw attention not only from cricket enthusiasts but also from those seeking a blend of spirituality and sportsmanship.
As the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony approaches, the anticipation is palpable, creating a unique convergence of cricketing prowess and spiritual fervor in the heart of Ayodhya. The event, steeped in tradition and significance, is poised to be a memorable spectacle that unites the realms of sports and divinity.