Introduction
As the nation’s excitement builds for the upcoming Ayodhya Ram Mandir ceremony, scam artists are seizing. This opportunity to exploit devotees in the guise of celebrating this historic event. Set to be inaugurat on January 22, the ceremony promises grandeur. With over 7,000 attendees, including politicians, celebrities, industrialists, saints, and representatives from different countries. However, amidst the enthusiasm, it is crucial to be aware of potential scams that unscrupulous individuals may employ to deceive devotees.
VIP Pass Scams
The cautionary tale begins with a circulating WhatsApp message tempting users with promises of free VIP entry to the Ayodhya Ram Temple. The message comes with an attached “apk” file named “Ram Janmabhoomi Grihsampark Abhiyan.apk.” Users are encouraged to install this file to purportedly gain VIP access. However, it’s important to note that no state government, temple trust member, or official is associated with this offer.
Installing such files poses severe risks, as they can potentially lead to data theft, compromising personal information such as passwords, messages, card numbers, and contacts. Devotees must avoid falling prey to such scams, as legitimate entry into the Ram Temple on January 22 is restricted to individuals with valid invites or those on government duty. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has instructed authorities to manage the entry process, emphasizing the importance of genuine invitations.
Fundraising Frauds
Another scam emerges in the form of fake social media pages soliciting funds for the construction of the Ram Temple. One such page, titled “Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Chhetra Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh,” asks users to contribute funds via a QR code. Additionally, some social media users report receiving messages allegedly. From ISKCON, seeking donations in the name of Shri Ram Janam Bhoomi.
VHP spokesperson Vinod Bansal has issued warnings against making contributions to such pages, stressing that individuals are attempting to deceive others by creating fake IDs. The matter has been reported to the Union Home Ministry and police chiefs in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. Devotees are advised to verify the authenticity of donation requests before contributing.
Prasad Scams
Reports circulate about a website, “Khadi Organic,” claiming to send Ram Mandir prasad for free after the “Pran Prathistha” event. This website is not associated with the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust or any government institution. Social media users question the legitimacy of this offer, suggesting it might be a scam or a mere marketing strategy. A video circulating online raises concerns about the prasad’s authenticity and the website’s practice of charging a delivery cost of ₹50.
Several other websites also claim to offer “free Ram Mandir prasad” or “Sri Ram Janmbhoomi Ayodhya Prasad.” The authenticity of these offers remains uncertain, and potential devotees are advised to approach such offers with caution. According to a Jansatta report, the company handling online bookings for prasad closed the service temporarily due to overwhelming demand.
Pre-Ceremony Events and Rituals
The Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony involves a series of events leading up to the consecration on January 22. Commencing on January 16 with Prayaschita and Karmakuti Poojan, the ceremonies include. Parisar Pravesh of the Murti, Teerth Poojan, Jal Yatra, Aushadhadhivas, Dhanyadhivas, Pushpadhivas, and more.
A minimum of three Adhivas is commonly follow in a Pran Pratistha ceremony, but this event will involve Seven Adhivasas, supervised by 121 Acharyas. The principal Acharya for the ceremony is Lakshmi Kant Dixit of Kashi, with Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid overseeing and directing all proceedings.
Distinguished Guests
The ceremony will witness the presence of prominent figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, UP Governor Anandiben Patel, UP CM Yogi Adityanath, and various cricketers such as Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, and Virat Kohli. Bollywood celebritie, including Amitabh Bachchan, Rajinikanth, Madhuri Dixit, Anupam Kher, and others, have also been invite.
Veteran actor Arun Govil, famous for portraying Lord Ram in Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan, is among the invitees, adding a touch of nostalgia to the ceremony. However, notable actors like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Sanjay Dutt reportedly haven’t received invitations.
Also Read : Ram Lala Mandir Ayodhya: Celebrating Faith and Unity
Conclusion
As the Ayodhya Ram Mandir ceremony approaches, devotees must remain vigilant against potential scams and fraudulent activities. The excitement surrounding this historic event should not overshadow the need for caution and verification. Whether it’s VIP passes, fundraising requests, or claims of free prasad. Devotees must exercise discernment and verify the authenticity of information and offers. Let the Ayodhya Ram Mandir ceremony be a celebration of faith, unity, and devotion, free from the shadow of deceit and scams.
