PM Modi prays to Lord Ram, observes Surya Tilak ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir virtually

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday offered prayers to Lord Ram and participated virtually in the Surya Tilak ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir.Earlier in the day, he extended greetings to the nation on the occasion of Ram Navami, wishing that the festival bring new energy and enthusiasm into the lives of the people. Taking to X, he said, "Heartfelt greetings to all countrymen on the occasion of Ram Navami. May this holy and sacred occasion of Lord Shri Ram's birth festival bring new consciousness and fresh enthusiasm into all your lives and continuously provide new energy to the resolve of a strong, prosperous, and capable India. Jai Shri Ram!"President Droupadi Murmu also extended her greetings, writing, "Hearty congratulations and best wishes to all countrymen on the holy festival of Ram Navami. This festival gives the message of religion, justice and duty. Maryada Purushottam Lord Shri Ram has presented high ideals of sacrifice, commitment, harmony and bravery to mankind.""His concept of good governance, i.e. Ram Rajya, is considered ideal. I wish that on this auspicious occasion all countrymen take a pledge to work together for the creation of a developed India," the president added.Across the country, large crowds of devotees thronged temples to mark the occasion, including in Ayodhya. Authorities put in place heightened security measures, including drone surveillance and zonal arrangements, to manage the influx of pilgrims.Ram Navami is celebrated every year on the last day of Chaitra Navaratri to mark the birth of Lord Rama. On this day, young girls, representing the nine forms of goddess Durga, are offered gifts and prasad.