Using state-of-the-art scientific expertise, a unique event unfolded at the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya as the forehead of the Ram Lalla idol received the auspicious ‘Surya Tilak’ on the occasion of Ram Navami. Through intricate engineering, a 5.8-centimeter beam of sunlight was precisely directed onto the deity’s forehead, creating a remarkable phenomenon that captivated onlookers.
To achieve this extraordinary feat, a specialized instrument was meticulously designed and implemented. A team of ten esteemed Indian scientists, stationed at the Ram Mandir, worked tirelessly to ensure the success of this sacred event. Beginning at 12 noon and lasting for approximately 3 to 3.5 minutes, sunlight was meticulously guided onto the statue’s forehead using a combination of mirrors and lenses.
Commissioned by the temple trust, scientists from a leading government institution conceptualized and constructed a sophisticated apparatus consisting of mirrors and lenses. Termed the ‘Surya Tilak mechanism,’ this device stands as a testament to significant scientific and engineering prowess.
Dr. Pradeep Kumar Ramacharla, Scientist and Director at the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), Roorkee, shed light on the intricate workings of the opto-mechanical system. He explained, “The opto-mechanical system comprises four mirrors and four lenses fitted inside the tilt mechanism and piping systems.” Dr. Ramacharla elaborated on the mechanism’s functionality, detailing how sunlight is directed through a series of mirrors and lenses to focus precisely on the deity’s forehead. The tilt mechanism allows for adjustments to ensure accurate alignment, enabling the creation of the ‘Surya Tilak’ ritual each year on Shree Ram Navami.
The development of the ‘Surya Tilak’ mechanism involved a collaborative effort between scientists from CBRI, Roorkee, and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIAP), Bengaluru. By employing specialized gearboxes and utilizing reflective mirrors and lenses, the team achieved precise solar tracking from the temple’s third floor to the inner sanctum (Garbha Griha). Technical support from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics and manufacturing expertise from Optica, a Bengaluru-based company, further facilitated the project’s execution.
Through meticulous planning and cutting-edge technology, the ‘Surya Tilak’ ceremony at Ayodhya’s Ram Temple exemplifies the harmonious integration of tradition and innovation. As the sun’s rays converge to bestow blessings upon the deity’s forehead, this sacred ritual symbolizes the timeless connection between humanity and the cosmos, bridging ancient customs with modern scientific advancements.
