A Temple Triumphs
Outlook|February 01, 2024
Ayodhya is all decked up, having undergone a rapid transformation in the recent past. Its residents are torn between the temple town then and now
Vikram Raj
A Temple Triumphs

Acacophony  of sounds created by hammers and pickaxes reverberates through the lanes and by-lanes of Ayodhya days ahead of the inauguration of the Ram temple. Diligent labourers are toiling day and night, giving finishing touches to the temple town. Roads have been widened, pavements built, and the outer facades of buildings around the temple are being embellished with intricate designs.

The yellow and saffron paint on the front walls of the temple is still fresh. The shutters of shops in the vicinity are proudly displaying symbols like trishuls and bow and arrows. There is a fierce-looking Hanuman on one of the shutters.

Ayodhya is all decked up, watching its own rapid transformation.

Residents, however, feel the once-serene town has lost its peaceful charm, giving way to an overwhelming grandiosity that might not resonate well with everyone. The tranquility that once defined Ayodhya has been overshadowed by the imposing new identity of the town itself. While the increased influx of visitors highlights the town’s prominence, it has also led to concerns about overcrowding and potential strain on the local infrastructure. The present-day Ayodhya is a complete contrast to what it was before. Commercialisation has taken centre stage. Locals have been wondering about the cultural implications of this dramatic shift. The transformation, after all, has come at a cost.

Denne historien er fra February 01, 2024-utgaven av Outlook.

Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.

Denne historien er fra February 01, 2024-utgaven av Outlook.

Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.

FLERE HISTORIER FRA OUTLOOKSe alt
US Economy: What's At Stake
Outlook

US Economy: What's At Stake

A Donald Trump presidency carries high risks for global growth due to tariffs, while Kamala Harris is less profligate with far more fiscal discipline

time-read
6 mins  |
November 11, 2024
Celestial Despair
Outlook

Celestial Despair

Set in the dusty city of Ranchi, Celestina and Lawrence is a film governed by unkept promises and incorrigible desires

time-read
3 mins  |
November 11, 2024
Who are we? Who is Them?
Outlook

Who are we? Who is Them?

This Jharkhand election will be a direct fight between the JMM and the BJP on Adivasi identity and the issue of infiltration

time-read
5 mins  |
November 11, 2024
Maha Versus Bharat
Outlook

Maha Versus Bharat

Can Shiv Sena and NCP's region-centric politics survive against the BJP's all-sweeping nationalistic style?

time-read
5 mins  |
November 11, 2024
An Ideal Couple?
Outlook

An Ideal Couple?

The US-India partnership is likely to endure as it is based on the national interests of both countries

time-read
5 mins  |
November 11, 2024
Dollar Democracy
Outlook

Dollar Democracy

American politics is a big circus

time-read
6 mins  |
November 11, 2024
The Outrider
Outlook

The Outrider

The shift in Kamala Harris' immigration policies reflects the national mood against illegal immigrants

time-read
6 mins  |
November 11, 2024
The Anarchist
Outlook

The Anarchist

Misogynist, repeat sex offender, rape accused and felon-Donald Trump is only growing stronger

time-read
3 mins  |
November 11, 2024
Roe, Roe, Roe Your Vote
Outlook

Roe, Roe, Roe Your Vote

For millions of women, the 2024 election isn't just about picking a president; it's about defining the kind of country America will be

time-read
8 mins  |
November 11, 2024
No Country for Women
Outlook

No Country for Women

Abortion is one of the deciding factors in US elections. It is time to reflect on our own practices and prejudices

time-read
6 mins  |
November 11, 2024