Ayodhya: 'Akshat' distribution begins ahead of Ram temple consecration

Organisers began distributing worshipped 'akshat' -- rice grains mixed with turmeric and ghee -- on New Year's Day and will continue up to January 15, a week before the consecration ceremony at the Ram Temple.

The temple trust's general secretary, Champat Rai, said the consecration ceremony will take place at 12:20 pm on January 22 and urged people across the country to celebrate the occasion as a festival.

A paper pouch containing the 'akshat', an image of the Ram temple bearing the trust's logo and a caption in Hindi -- 'Under-construction Temple', Ayodhya', and a pamphlet describing details of the structure were being distributed to the people.

A group of sadhus, some carrying cards bearing the image of the temple, others holding the 'akshat' pouches, along with Rai then moved in a procession to kick off the process. Young artistes dressed as Lord Ram were part of the procession.