Ayodhya’s Maharishi Valmiki Airport is abuzz with activity as it gears up for the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony of Lord Ram on January 22. The airport has received requests for nearly 50 VIP planes to land on January 21 and 22, with over 100 VIPs expected to attend the event. Airlines, including IndiGo and Air India, have added flights to Ayodhya to accommodate the surge in visitors.
Ram Temple trustee Champat Rai said that approximately 100 planes, including 25 chartered VIP aircraft, may land in Ayodhya between January 18-22. The airport is making arrangements to handle the influx of guests.
Notable dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, are scheduled to arrive on January 22, and special VIP planes may need to be parked at nearby airports in Gorakhpur, Lucknow, and Kushinagar.
Passengers flying to Ayodhya expressed excitement and awe at the beautiful airport, adorned with art pieces depicting stories from religious texts. The airport has become a focal point for travellers eager to witness the ceremony.
Senior BJP leader Tarun Chugh emphasized the significance of Ayodhya as a global spiritual and tourist destination, with improved road connectivity and infrastructure making it easier for people to visit. Deputy CM of Uttar Pradesh, Brajesh Pathak, highlighted Ayodhya’s development as a global tourist hotspot.
“Sri Ramjanmabhoomi and Ayodhya have become the world’s capital in spirituality and tourism. Maximum tourists and those seeking spirituality will come to Ayodhya, and hence this airport is so important,” said Tarun Chugh.
Brajesh Pathak added, “Ayodhya is being developed as a global tourist destination. Soon after ‘Pran Pratishtha,’ people will get a grand darshan of ‘Ram Lalla.’ It will be an unforgettable sight for anyone who comes here.”