Ayodhya’s Ram Janmabhoomi Temple will shut its doors to devotees starting 9 AM on March 3 due to the year’s first total lunar eclipse. This decision by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust honors ancient religious traditions that mandate temple closures during celestial events like eclipses.
The temple’s daily rituals, including Mangala Aarti and Shringar Aarti, will proceed as scheduled in the early morning. Devotees can participate in these sacred ceremonies before the gates close around 9 AM. The closure will last until 8:30 PM, covering the entire duration of the eclipse and the associated sutak period.
In a formal notice, the Trust has outlined these temporary changes to ensure uninterrupted worship and mantra recitation inside the sanctum. This practice prevents any disturbance during the inauspicious eclipse hours, a custom deeply rooted in Hindu scriptures.
Authorities have been duly informed. Dr. Anil Mishra, a Trust member, wrote to the Additional Superintendent of Police in Ayodhya, detailing the revised schedule and requesting enhanced security measures around the temple premises.
For pilgrims planning a visit on Tuesday, arrive early for the morning aartis. Post-closure, no darshan or entry will be permitted until the temple reopens the next day. Normal operations resume on March 4, allowing devotees to resume their spiritual journey without interruption.
This eclipse, falling on Purnima tithi, underscores the seamless blend of astronomy and devotion at one of India’s most revered sites. Stay updated on timings to make the most of your pilgrimage.