By Omotunde Alawode
Over 600 Indians in Lagos converged on Geeta Ashram (Indian temple), Lekki, Lagos, to celebrate Deepotsav “festival of lights” and Bhajan sandhya, the recitation of Hindu holy prayers, on January 20, 2024.
•L-R: Prajwal, Satish Jois, Navneet Sehgal, Sachin Nikum, Satish Maurya, Raghu, Hemant, Anil Nagarwal, Rajeev Odhrani, Pratyancha Mogal, Hema Bonakurthi, Vathsala, Veena, Kishore Surapaneni, Pushkraj Mogal and Chandra Bonakurthi at the event
The event heralding its global programme, the consecration ceremony of a spectacular Shree Ram Temple at the exact birthplace of Lord Ram in Ayodhya City, in Uttar Pradesh State of India, was scheduled to held on January 22.
Speaking at the ceremony was a representative of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) Foundation Nigeria, a cultural and charitable non-profit noble organization, Rajeev Odhrani said Lord Ram is a deity worshipped by all Hindus across the globe. For Hindus, this occasion is very auspicious and a once-in-a-lifetime moment because the temple was destroyed by invaders and is now being re-built legitimately.
“With universal acceptance after 550 years of long struggle for which many generations strived and many of the Indian Hindus sacrificed their lives, Odhrani explains why many Hindus admire Lord Ram who is portrayed as ideal man, and a symbol of spiritual love and devotion.”
He said Lord Rama is the seventh avatar of Vishnu and is not just a popular deity in Hinduism, but also a cultural icon and moral compass whose importance transcends generations. His life, immortalized in the epic Ramayana, serves as a beacon of righteous living, unwavering devotion, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. More than just a god, Rama is a melody that hums in the heart of every Hindu, a story whispered down generations.
Also Sharath Menon said Rama represents the divine, possessing qualities like righteousness, compassion and selflessness. He is the manifestation of Dharma and moral law on earth.
Menon stated that Lord Rama could be described as the epitome of morality, also known as ‘Maryada Purushottama,’ the perfect man who adheres to moral principles. Rama sets an exemplary standard for conduct. His unwavering commitment to truth, integrity and devotion makes him a role model for leading a virtuous life.
He added that Rama’s legendary victory over the demon king Ravana is a potent symbol of the triumph of good over evil. This narrative not only inspires hope and faith but also motivates individuals to face their own struggles with relentless determination.
Chandra Bondeunthm said that millions respect Lord Rama and seek blessings for good health, prosperity and success. From selflessness to loyalty, his qualities offer a handbook for leading a noble life. Chanting his name, reading the Ramayana, or performing rituals dedicated to him are considered ways to connect with the divine and seek his guidance.
“His life and teachings offer spiritual upliftment and wisdom for navigating the complexities of existence. From festivals like Ram Navami, celebrating his birth to devotional prayers and temple visits, his presence spreads through various aspects of Hindu life.
Anil Naganwal noted that Lord Rama has immense significance in Hinduism that transcends his divine origins. Generations pass, yet his tale never gathers dust. It lives on, breathed into life by a million voices onwards.
Lovely Sharma expressed delight over the celebration because her birthday, January 22, would be celebrated alongside the consecration of Lord Ram’s temple Geeta Ashram.
“Indians believe that this is not only a moment of revival of ancient Hindu heritage and culture but also a major milestone in the path of India that is Bharat becoming a ‘Vishwa Guru,’ meaning a beacon for the entire world for peace and harmony with an ideology ‘Vasudev kutumbakam,’ that is, world is one family.”
Meanwhile, members of the Indian community that attended the function included Hindus from Nepal and Pakistan also. Lord Ram is considered to be an ideal king and honest ruler and carries complete human characteristics to guide the entire humanity to live and prosper in peace and harmony.
Children around age five alongside women that are members of the community performed skits, dance and chanting of spiritual prayers, etc. The entire gathering worshipped at the monument of Shree Ram Temple Ayodhya in this programme.
Dignitaries at the event included Consulate General of India, Mr. Chandramouli. Many elders and veterans of the Indian community graced the occasion and blessed the participants and organizing team.
“The programme was organized by the Indian community of Lagos with a proud initiative by Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh Foundation, Nigeria, a cultural and charitable non-profit noble organization.
Sharath Menon, Satish Maurya, Pratyancha Mogal and Rajeev Odhrani of the HSS team, along with assistance from Anil Nagarwal, Retd. Col. Vijay Khedekar, Kishor Surapaneni, Chandraji, Vatsala Satish, Sachin Nikum, Satish Jois, etc, managed the event end to end and made it a huge success.
All the spectacular performances by kids and women participants were coordinated by Babita Bhardwaj, Hemalatha Bonakurthi, Srishti Odhrani, Akanksha Soni, Prakriti Sinha, Nandita Sreenivas, Ritika Sagvekar and Dipti Singh.
Spiritual prayers recitation was coordinated by Kamala and Anant Rao, Babita Bhardwaj, Omkar Dhagamwar, Nimmi Nagarwal and Ms. Anu.
Highlights of the event and side attractions included the litting of 1,000 lamps, musical instrument support was rendered by Omkar Dhagamwar and Ms. Shubhra while main anchor role was played by Roshan Bharati.