The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) played a crucial role in the Surya Tilak Project at Ayodhya, aiming to bring sunlight onto the forehead of Sri Ram Lalla on Sri Ram Navami. With the English calendar date of the festival changing every year, the IIA team used their expertise in astronomy to determine the sun's position for 19 years. They also designed an optomechanical system to direct sunlight onto the idol's forehead, ensuring it receives light for about six minutes.
Surya Tilak: Bringing Sunlight to Sri Ram Lalla's Forehead
Background:
Sri Rama Navami is a significant Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Rama. Traditionally, devotees gather at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya to witness the "Surya Tilak" ritual, where sunlight falls on the forehead of the idol of Sri Ram Lalla. However, the exact time and date of the festival vary each year due to the precession of the Earth's axis.
The Surya Tilak Project:
Recognizing the importance of the Surya Tilak ritual, the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) initiated the Surya Tilak Project in 2021. The goal was to accurately predict the time and date when sunlight would fall on Sri Ram Lalla's forehead for the next 19 years.
The IIA team, led by Dr. Dipankar Bhattacharya, utilized their expertise in astronomy to calculate the sun's position with precision. They also designed an optomechanical system consisting of mirrors and lenses to redirect sunlight onto the idol's forehead.
Implementation and Results:
The Surya Tilak system was installed in the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in 2022. On Sri Rama Navami 2023, the system successfully directed sunlight onto Sri Ram Lalla's forehead for approximately six minutes. The event was witnessed by thousands of devotees and marked a historical milestone in the celebration of the festival.
FAQs:
Why is the date of Sri Rama Navami different each year?
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What is the significance of the Surya Tilak ritual?
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