Himachal resembles Diwali festivities in grand 'Pran Pratishtha' Ceremony

Himachal Pradesh witnessed Diwali-like celebrations during the consecration ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol in Ayodhya. Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla organized a 'Sundar Kand' recital at the Raj Bhawan, while Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu paid homage at the Hanuman temple Jakhu. Union Minister Anurag Thakur participated in a pooja at Awadha Devi Temple in Hamirpur, and Opposition Leader Jai Ram Thakur visited a Lord Ram Temple in the state capital.

Political figures join the celebrations

Chief Minister Sukhu, a devoted follower of Lord Ram, offered prayers to Lord Hanuman during the ceremony. Sukhu declared a public holiday, urging people to witness the 'Pran Pratishtha' and light diyas. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri announced the entire cabinet's upcoming visit to the Ayodhya temple.

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Unexpected visit by Congress leaders

In a surprising move, Congress minister Vikramaditya Singh, son of state Congress chief Pratibha Singh, attended the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya. Another Congress MLA, Sudhir Sharma, also joined the event. The ceremony resonated across Himachal Pradesh, with screens at 2,000 locations, community meals, and festive decorations in Shimla town.

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The governor emphasized the profound experiences of devotion, highlighting the ceremony's significance in promoting peace and harmony. The celebrations marked a blend of religious fervor and political participation, uniting the state in joyous festivities.