At noon, as the lights dimmed, a mesmerizing spectacle unfolded within the sanctum of the Ram Mandir. Despite the dimming, the sun's radiant beams managed to pierce through, delicately kissing the forehead of Lord Ram in a ceremony known as 'Surya Tilak' — an eagerly anticipated event.
Lasting for a brief yet profoundly significant three minutes, the 'aarti' commenced amidst the resonating echoes of conch shells, enhancing the divine ambiance enveloping the temple precincts on the auspicious occasion of Lord Ram's birthday.
The intricate choreography of this celestial dance was orchestrated by a dedicated team of researchers from the esteemed Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee (IIT-R), entrusted with devising the unique Surya Tilak mechanism exclusive to the Ram Mandir.
Prior to the grand ceremony on Ram Navami, the IIT team meticulously conducted two successful trials, fine-tuning the intricate apparatus to perfection. This apparatus, equipped with precision mirrors and lenses, served as the conduit through which the sun's rays were meticulously directed onto the revered deity's forehead at the appointed hour.
Crafted from robust brass and bronze materials for longevity and resilience against corrosion, the tilak apparatus was ingeniously engineered to synchronize flawlessly with the lunar calendar. Its specialized gearbox, adorned with reflective mirrors and lenses, was strategically positioned on the third floor near the shikara, ensuring the precise reflection of sunrays into the sanctum sanctorum, or 'garbhagriha,' at the designated moment.
Reports affirm that the meticulous alignment of this apparatus with the celestial rhythms ensures the accurate positioning of the sun on the sacred day of Ram Navami, perpetuating this divine tradition with unwavering precision year after year.
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