Throughout his 11-day fast leading up to the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram Temple, Prime Minister Narendra Modi adhered to a set of stringent rituals, exemplifying a disciplined lifestyle. These practices included sleeping on the floor, abstaining from salt consumption, and nourishing his body with coconut water. The emotional resonance of the consecration ceremony, as reported by participating priests, underscored the significance of this spiritual journey.
Prime Minister Modi diligently observed 40 rules during the fasting period, spanning from January 12 to January 22. As part of these rituals, he refrained from international travel, yet retained the freedom to visit religious sites, as elucidated by Swami Govind Dev Giri Maharaj from Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra.
During the fasting period, PM Modi, by the prescribed rituals, limited his sustenance to coconut water. Despite the option to observe the rituals for just three days, he chose to extend the fast to the entire 11-day duration leading up to the 'Pran Pratishtha' of the Ram Temple.
Pandit Sadanand Pathak confirmed that Prime Minister Modi meticulously adhered to all the stipulated rules during his fast, with an emphasis on abstaining from regular salt. Instead, rock salt was permissible, and the Prime Minister also had the option to consume fruits. However, he chose to exclusively rely on coconut water for sustenance.
As part of the fasting rituals, PM Modi eschewed conventional sleeping arrangements on a bed, opting to rest on the floor. Ritualistic norms prohibit sleeping or sitting on a bed during such practices. Additionally, the Prime Minister engaged in 'Gau Seva' by feeding cows and could accept offerings only after they had been presented to God. Ritualistic guidelines also prohibited the shaving of the beard and the trimming of nails during this period.
Under the prescribed rituals, Prime Minister Modi dedicated moments to meditation on the banks of the Saryu River, which gracefully flows through Ayodhya. The consecration ceremony featured the recitation of verses from the Ramcharitmanas, adding a profound spiritual dimension to the entire observance.
