Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, is a place steeped in history and spirituality. However, our recent visit there was a mixed bag of emotions – exhilarating yet overwhelming, humbling yet disheartening.
The highlight of the trip, undoubtedly, was witnessing the Ram Mandir aarti. We opted for the wise decision of obtaining an aarti pass (currently offered at 4 am and 6 am which must be booked two weeks prior to the date of visit). While this ensured a spot within the temple, the journey inside was far from peaceful. The sheer volume of devotees, coupled with a sense of urgency, translated into pushing, shoving, and a general lack of respect for personal space. It was a stark contrast to the spiritual experience I expected.
The infrastructure surrounding the temple also left room for improvement. The new temple stood in stark contrast to the poverty evident in the surrounding areas. Additionally, the chaotic nature of tourist activity felt disrespectful to the sanctity of the place.
Leaving the Ram Mandir with a sigh, we paid a quick visit at Hanuman Giri, only minutes by walk.
Our next stop, Kanak Bhawan, was a breath of fresh air. This historic palace, with its beautiful courtyard, provided a much-needed escape from the chaos outside. Remember to check the opening timings before you visit!
The saving grace of the trip came in the form of a small tea stall – Kalam ki Chai. Here's where we finally found a cup of chai brewed to perfection – strong, fragrant, and generously laced with ginger. But what truly stole our hearts was the young owner, Kalam. His passion for chai was evident in every sip, and his kindness knew no bounds. He freely offered cups of tea and biscuits to the less fortunate, a gesture that restored our faith in humanity.
Ayodhya has the potential to be a truly awe-inspiring experience. With improved crowd management, better infrastructure, and a more respectful tourist culture, it could truly become a pilgrimage site worthy of its spiritual significance. Until then, a cup of kindness from Kalam will remain a heartwarming memory from this trip.
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