In a remarkable display of scientific ingenuity, the Ram Temple in Ayodhya witnessed the ‘Surya Tilak’ ceremony on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami. This ceremony involved directing a beam of sunlight onto the forehead of the Ram Lalla idol, creating a divine spectacle for devotees.
The Innovative Technology Behind the Ceremony
Employing state-of-the-art scientific expertise, a 5.8-centimeter beam of sunlight was meticulously directed onto the deity’s forehead. This feat was accomplished through the use of a specialized instrument designed by a team of ten esteemed Indian scientists stationed at the Ram Mandir.
The Role of Indian Scientists
Commissioned by the temple trust, these scientists utilized cutting-edge technology to ensure the success of the ‘Surya Tilak’ ceremony. They devised a sophisticated apparatus consisting of mirrors and lenses, officially termed the ‘Surya Tilak mechanism,’ which marked a significant scientific and engineering achievement.
The Opto-Mechanical System
Dr. Pradeep Kumar Ramacharla, a scientist and director at the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI) in Roorkee, elucidated the intricate workings of the opto-mechanical system. This system comprised four mirrors and four lenses fitted inside a tilt mechanism and piping systems, meticulously designed to focus sunlight onto the deity’s forehead.
Collaboration and Technical Expertise
The development of the ‘Surya Tilak’ mechanism was a collaborative effort between scientists from CBRI, Roorkee, and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIAP) in Bengaluru. By employing reflective mirrors, lenses, and a special gearbox, the team ensured the precise alignment of sunlight rays from the temple’s third floor to the inner sanctum.
Innovative Solutions for Traditional Rituals
Dr. Pradeep Chauhan, another scientist from CBRI, emphasized the meticulous planning involved in ensuring the flawless execution of the ‘Surya Tilak’ ceremony. Despite the fixed date of Ram Navami based on the lunar calendar, intricate arrangements were made to synchronize the ritual without relying on electricity or batteries.
Expertise in Positional Astronomy
The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) played a crucial role in reconciling the lunar and solar calendars to facilitate the ‘Surya Tilak’ ceremony. With expertise in positional astronomy, the institute ensured that the Sun’s rays ceremoniously anointed the idol of Ram Lala on every Ram Navami.
The ‘Surya Tilak’ ceremony at Ayodhya’s Ram Temple exemplifies the fusion of tradition and modernity, where ancient rituals are enhanced by cutting-edge scientific techniques. Through collaboration and innovation, Indian scientists have showcased their ability to uphold cultural practices while embracing technological advancements.
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