Ayodhya,

April 26 (HS): A strong heatwave and increasing temperatures have resulted in a

significant drop in the number of worshipers attending the Ram temple in

Ayodhya, authorities reported on Sunday. Authorities have made particular

efforts to keep guests cool in the heat. According to IMD statistics, Ayodhya's

maximum day temperature on Saturday was 42 degrees Celsius. Over the next 72

hours, the daytime temperature is anticipated to continue above 40 degrees

Celsius. Anil Mishra, a member of the Ram Temple Trust, stated that

air-conditioned waiting rooms with a capacity of roughly 3,000 persons had been

built up for devotees' convenience.

Meanwhile,

Mayor Girish Pati Tripathi stated that the Ayodhya Municipal Corporation has

been spraying water along Ram Path and adjoining areas with fogging equipment

to reduce heat. According to a senior municipal official, on normal days, the

temple receives around one lakh devotees, but owing to the heatwave, the number

has decreased to less than 40,000.

Mishra

further stated that because to the growing heat, alterations had been made in

the offerings to Ram Lalla. The offers include food items that cool, hydrate,

and revitalize. Lassi and fruit drinks, particularly mango juice, are available

everyday.

A

particular blend of honey, curd, ghee, and water is given in a gold vase.

Mishra stated that the daily diet now comprises a variety of fruits and curd,

with an emphasis on light and readily digested foods. To counteract the heat,

the deity is also soaked in chilly water. Ram Lalla wears light cotton or silk

clothes. Coolers have been put in the sanctuary to keep the temperature cooler.

Officials also stated that rituals have been adjusted to safeguard the comfort

of the deity's kid form throughout the extreme heat.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi