Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday embarked on a special 11-day religious practice ahead of the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, a deeply symbolic event marking the culmination of a decades-long dispute.
In a recorded message, Modi described his participation as a "fortunate privilege" and said he felt chosen by God to represent all Indians during the Pran Pratishtha"ritual. He acknowledged the weight of the occasion, saying, "It is difficult to express my emotions. For the first time in my life, I am experiencing such feelings.
PM Modi will observe strict guidelines prescribed in ancient scriptures for the 11-day period, officials said. The consecration ceremony is scheduled for Jan. 22.