In a momentous event set to coincide with the nationwide celebration of the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, a new Ram Temple in Nayagarh district, Odisha, is scheduled for inauguration on January 22. The temple stands on 1800 feet high hill top at Fategarh village under Bhapur block in panoramic view of the surroundings. It has been built with donations from villagers and devotees from across the state at over Rs 10 crore. Crafted from the natural beauty of Baulamala stone against the backdrop of the lush greenery of the mountains, the temple holds a unique charm. The site has historical significance, as Lord Govardhan has been revered on this mountain for decades. In 1912, during the Navakalebar of Shri Jagannath, Lord Sudharshan’s sacred tree was sourced from this very location, inspiring the establishment of Shri Ram Seva Parishad by the villagers of Fatehgarh.

The inauguration ceremony promises to be a grand affair, with dignitaries such as Puri Govardhan Peeth Shankaracharya Swami Nischalananda Saraswati, Puri king Gajapati Dibyasingha Deb, and saints from various regions invited to partake in the festivities. The consecration rituals commenced on Wednesday with Ankuropan, while the Kalash Yatra took place on Thursday. Notably, hundreds of women from Fategarh village undertook the symbolic act of fetching water from the Mahanadi river for the consecration ceremony. The temple’s inception traces back to 2017 when Chakradhar Pradhan, a visionary from the village, received a directive in his dream to construct a Ram Temple on the hilltop. Embarking on this divine mission, Pradhan, with the unwavering support of fellow villagers, initiated the construction, starting with his own contribution of Rs 1 lakh. As the inauguration process is set to commence from January 21, the Fatehgarh Ram Temple stands not only as a religious symbol but also as a testament to the profound dedication and unity of the local community.