Doordarshan and All India Radio prepare for a grand coverage of Ram Temple consecration ceremony

As the auspicious occasion of the consecration ceremony of Lord Ramlala in Ayodhya approaches, national broadcasters Doordarshan and All India Radio have meticulously planned extensive coverage, ensuring that millions of viewers across the country and globe can partake in the historic event. The elaborate programs will run from January 15 to January 22, culminating in the live telecast of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony on January 22.

Doordarshan’s Lineup

Lucknow Doordarshan Kendra’s Program Head, Atma Prakash Mishra, revealed a detailed schedule of live programs set to enchant viewers between 5 pm and 8 pm every day at Guptar Ghat. The programs include discussions with religious leaders, conversations with Ayodhya devotees, and captivating episodes related to Maryada Purushottam, all broadcast between 5 to 6 pm.

Renowned directors from the film industry will take the stage between 6 pm and 7 pm, showcasing specially curated programs. Following this, ‘Ram Ramaiya Gaaye Jaa,’ a title conceived and directed by Atma Prakash Mishra, promises audiences special performances by various artists and scholars from 7 pm to 8 pm.

Musical Extravaganza

The musical lineup for the ceremony is equally impressive. Padmashree Malini Awasthi, Sharma Bandhu of Ujjain, Hariom Pawar, Sarvesh Asthana, Sonarupa Vishal, Gajendra Priyanshu, Amar Akshar, Mahant Mithilesh Nandini Sharan, Sadhau Band, Trupti Shakya, Vivek Prakash, and Padmashri Anup Jalota are set to enthral audiences on different days leading up to the Pran Pratishtha.

All India Radio’s Coverage

Meenu Khare, Program Head of Akashvani Lucknow, outlined the plan for Ramotsav Surtal Kachari. Under the direction of Pt. Ravinath Mishra, classical music based on Ramkatha and ‘Raja Ramchandra Raghav Siyapati’ will be featured. Additionally, ‘Siyaram May Sab Jag Jani’ will be broadcast live every day at 9:30 am.

A special series titled ‘Ayodhya: Bhakti Ki Mastak Tilak Rekha’ is being prepared for the national telecast by All India Radio. Special musical tropes based on the life of Lord Ram will also be presented for national telecast.

Cutting-Edge Technology for Live Coverage

Doordarshan, employing state-of-the-art technology, will use nearly 40 cameras positioned strategically across Ayodhya, including the new Ram temple complex, to deliver live coverage of the consecration ceremony. The broadcast will be in 4K technology, ensuring unparalleled visual quality for viewers. Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Secretary Apurva Chandra confirmed that the entire coverage will be live, broadcasted in various languages, and available on different channels.

“Like the G20… when we had done 4K transmission, this time also, Doordarshan will do it in 4K,” Chandra said. The coverage is not limited to Doordarshan channels; private channels will also receive the feed, ensuring a widespread audience for this historic event.

Chandra emphasized the enthusiasm in Ayodhya for the ceremony during his recent visit, noting that approximately 250 Doordarshan staff will be present on the day. The elaborate coverage will capture events at Ram ki Paidi, the temple complex, and other locations hosting the Prime Minister’s engagements.

Ayodhya’s Preparations

With the ‘pran pratishtha’ scheduled for January 22, the entire city of Ayodhya is abuzz with preparations. Over 7,000 guests, including dignitaries and eminent personalities from various fields, have been invited by the Ram Temple Trust. The Uttar Pradesh government and the Ayodhya administration are leaving no stone unturned to make this event a grand success.

As the nation eagerly awaits the historic moment, the live broadcast promises to capture the essence of this sacred occasion, allowing millions to join in the celebration from the comfort of their homes. The consecration ceremony is not just a moment for Ayodhya but a significant event that resonates with devotees across the globe.

As anticipation builds for the momentous event, the Information and Broadcasting Ministry has engaged in discussions with local and state administrations for a swift broadcast of the ceremony. On January 10, officials also scouted a location in Ayodhya for a media centre to accommodate the influx of journalists covering the consecration ceremony.