In the vibrant city of Ayodhya, a new temple rises with the idol of Ram Lalla, adorned in grandeur that resonates with the sacredness it represents. Designer Manish Tripathi and master artisan Yatindra Mishra share their challenging yet divine journeys in creating the outfit and ornaments that honor a deity’s glory, revering their spiritual connection and expertise.
As Manish Tripathi weaved gold and silver threads into the pitambari fabric from Kashi (Varanasi), he reflected on the arduous task of crafting attire for a figure who is both a princely god and a beloved cultural icon. The yellow silk material, woven with Vaishnavite symbols, was the result of a cherished divine connection, guiding Tripathi in his quest to pay homage to over five centuries of devotion. The appreciation from devotees and the emotional response from his family served as profound affirmations of his work’s impact.
The intricate jewellery, carefully curated by Yatindra Mishra and his team of 132 artists, was conceived in the delicate time frame of 15-16 days, following the completion of Ram Lalla’s idol by sculptor Arun Yogiraj. Drawing from ancient texts, including Adhyatma Ramayan and Shrimad Valmiki Ramayan, Mishra and his team used rubies, emeralds, diamonds, and gold to craft ornaments in alignment with traditional depictions. The team’s dedication and meticulous attention to detail were evident in the adorned idol, which was unveiled during the grand Pran Pratishtha ceremony.
Amidst the fervent ceremony attended by thousands, including dignitaries and the idol’s sculptor Arun Yogiraj himself, the idol of Ram Lalla stood as a testament to the symbiosis between human artistry and divine inspiration. In the words of Yogiraj, the opportunity to serve as the vessel for such creation was a blessing from the deity, a sentiment echoed across the generations waiting to see the deity in his new abode. This event was not only a milestone for the temple but also a celebration of the timeless craft and spirituality that continues to define the cultural tapestry of India.