From the historic town of Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu, the world’s largest Shiva Lingam has arrived at Gopalganj in Bihar. Standing monumental at 33 feet long and weighing 210 metric tons, this spiritual marvel is set for its installation on January 17th at the Virat Ramayana Temple situated in Kesariya, Eastern Champaran.
The Lingam embarked on its journey on November 21, traversing a remarkable 45-day sojourn through Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh before reaching Bihar. All along this sacred pilgrimage, it was warmly welcomed by devotees with grand celebrations. Wherever the vehicles transporting it halted, throngs of believers gathered for prayer ceremonies and devotional aartis.
After a day's rest, on January 5th, the Lingam will head to Balathari in Gopalganj for a grand reception at 11 AM. An exquisite gateway has been constructed for this occasion. Here, the Lingam will be honored with ceremonial worship, aartis, and a vibrant display of bands and processions. The spiritual festivities will continue at Chainpatti in Gopalganj where devotees will extend their reverence and greetings.
Source: aajtak
B.K. Mishra, the ACEO of the temple, alongside superintendent Sudhakar, reveals that from Gopalganj, the Lingam will journey through Khajuria and Hussaini before reaching Kesariya. The ceremonial Peeth Puja, Havan, and methodical installation will take place in the Virat Ramayana Temple complex on January 17th, followed by the Prana Pratishtha of the Lingam.
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This Shiva Lingam was meticulously crafted from a single black granite monolith in the quaint village of Pattikadu near Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu. The artisans dedicated almost a decade to its creation, embedding 1008 Sahasralingams onto its surface. Transported on a specialized 96-wheeled truck, it made its majestic way to Bihar.
The construction of the Virat Ramayana Temple is being executed by the Mahavir Mandir Trust. Within the temple grounds, the entrance gateway, Ganesh temple, Lion Gate, Nandi, Shiva Lingam pedestal, and the sanctum's pile work have been completed. This architectural marvel will span 1080 feet in length and 540 feet in width and will house 18 main spires and 22 subsidiary temples. The principal spire will rise to a majestic 270 feet.
According to the superintendent, the temple's foundation was laid on June 20, 2023, marking the commencement of construction. Nestled between Kesariya and Chakiya in Janakinagar, approximately 120 kilometers from Patna, the temple complex will feature four ashrams. The Virat Ramayana Temple is the dream project of Padma Shri Awardee Acharya Kishore Kunal. Upon completion, it aims to be the world's largest temple, a monumental pride for not just Bihar but the entire nation.
