<p>India's temple city of Ayodhya is all decked up for the grand consecration ceremony of the much-awaited Ram Mandir and 'Pran Pratishtha' of Ram Lalla idol, which has been carved by Mysuru-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj and will be placed inside sanctum sanctorum of the temple in Ayodhya.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the grand ceremony, army helicopters will shower flowers on the temple city and different Indian musical instruments will be played by 30 artists inside the temple premises during the Aarti (ritual offerings), as per the Temple Authorities. The authorities said that bells will be handed over to the guests during the Aarti (ritual offerings), which they will ring during the ritual.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-mandir-30-years-300-columns-3d-structural-analysis-architect-narrates-journey-of-temple-designing-682206">Ram Mandir | 30 years, 300 columns, 3D structural analysis: Architect narrates journey of temple designing</a></p>

<p>During the ceremony, 30 musicians will perform in unison while playing different musical instruments. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will take part in the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony of Ram Lalla in the newly built Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.</p>

<h2><strong>Representation of all&nbsp;major religious, spiritual&nbsp;sects</strong></h2>

<p>The representatives of all major religious and spiritual sects of the country will be attending the historic Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony. People from different sections of society, including representatives of different tribal communities, will also take part in the ceremony. After the idol's consecration ceremony, the prime minister will address the distinguished gathering.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In accordance with the Shastriya protocols, the consecration ceremony will be held in the Abhijeet Muhurta on Monday afternoon (Jan 22). A consecration ceremony is generally attended by Seven Adhivasas and a minimum of three Adhivasas remain in practice. The rituals will be conducted by 12 Acharyas. All the proceedings of the Anushthan will be overseen, coordinated and directed by Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid and Lakshmikant Dixit of Kashi will act as the principal Acharya.</p>

<p>Along with PM Modi, the consecration ceremony will be attended by Sarsanghchalak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Mohan Bhagwat, Governor of Uttar Pradesh Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath and other dignitaries.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Temple set to become the largest in India, stands at a height of 161</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ayodhya-ram-mandir-temple-set-to-become-the-largest-in-india-stands-at-a-height-of-161-682234/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Acharyas from various schools of Bharatiya spiritualism, system of worship, religious sects and traditions and saints of more than 150 traditions - Mahamandaleshwars, Mandaleshwars, Shrimahants, Mahants, Nagas - along with major figures of more than 50 tribal traditions will participate in the Prana Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony in the premises of the Ram Mandir.</p>

<p>This is the first time in recent history that there is a representation of tribal people from hills, forests, coastal belts, and islands in such a ceremony.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's temple city of Ayodhya is all decked up for the grand consecration ceremony of the much-awaited Ram Mandir and 'Pran Pratishtha' of Ram Lalla idol, which has been carved by Mysuru-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj and will be placed inside sanctum sanctorum of the temple in Ayodhya.

India's temple city of Ayodhya is all decked up for the grand consecration ceremony of the much-awaited Ram Mandir and 'Pran Pratishtha' of Ram Lalla idol, which has been carved by Mysuru-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj and will be placed inside sanctum sanctorum of the temple in Ayodhya. In the grand ceremony, army helicopters will shower flowers on the temple city and different Indian musical instruments will be played by 30 artists inside the temple premises during the Aarti (ritual offerings), as per the Temple Authorities. The authorities said that bells will be handed over to the guests during the Aarti (ritual offerings), which they will ring during the ritual. Also read: Ram Mandir | 30 years, 300 columns, 3D structural analysis: Architect narrates journey of temple designing During the ceremony, 30 musicians will perform in unison while playing different musical instruments. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will take part in the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony of Ram Lalla in the newly built Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Representation of all major religious, spiritual sects The representatives of all major religious and spiritual sects of the country will be attending the historic Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony. People from different sections of society, including representatives of different tribal communities, will also take part in the ceremony. After the idol's consecration ceremony, the prime minister will address the distinguished gathering. In accordance with the Shastriya protocols, the consecration ceremony will be held in the Abhijeet Muhurta on Monday afternoon (Jan 22). A consecration ceremony is generally attended by Seven Adhivasas and a minimum of three Adhivasas remain in practice. The rituals will be conducted by 12 Acharyas. All the proceedings of the Anushthan will be overseen, coordinated and directed by Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid and Lakshmikant Dixit of Kashi will act as the principal Acharya. Along with PM Modi, the consecration ceremony will be attended by Sarsanghchalak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Mohan Bhagwat, Governor of Uttar Pradesh Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath and other dignitaries. Watch: Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Temple set to become the largest in India, stands at a height of 161 Acharyas from various schools of Bharatiya spiritualism, system of worship, religious sects and traditions and saints of more than 150 traditions - Mahamandaleshwars, Mandaleshwars, Shrimahants, Mahants, Nagas - along with major figures of more than 50 tribal traditions will participate in the Prana Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony in the premises of the Ram Mandir. This is the first time in recent history that there is a representation of tribal people from hills, forests, coastal belts, and islands in such a ceremony. (With inputs from agencies)

Ram Mandir | Ayodhya's much-awaited welcome for Ram Lalla: Flower shower, musical offering by 30 artists

<p>In the much-awaited Ram Mandir consecration ceremony which took place in India's temple city of Ayodhya, the Ram Lalla idol's face was revealed on Monday (Jan 22). Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had observed an 11-day satvik&nbsp;ritual, unveiled the idol of Lord Ram depicted as a five-year-old.</p>

<p>He was accompanied by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat in the consecration ceremony.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Moment Ram Lalla's face unveiled <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONOriginals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONOriginals</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamMandirPranPrathistha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamMandirPranPrathistha</a> <a href="https://t.co/pZv6nBIwQW">pic.twitter.com/pZv6nBIwQW</a></p>
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<p>The 'Pran Pratishtha' (consecration) ceremony was performed by PM Modi in the 84-second 'muhurta', or auspicious time of the day, before which he participated in other rituals. The prime minister had reached the Ram Temple a&nbsp;few minutes before the rituals amid celebrations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="x" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cb0f72f5-f1a7-4eb7-be03-9365877ea8c8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ea3469bd-944f-4fbf-9e82-bb32e71ef802.jpeg" /></p>

<p><img alt="y" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e5cd6c2a-8bce-4720-a88a-9f2da8e7b7b1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/80aa1db3-f1fb-4dff-a9f6-dc170c7258f2.jpeg" /></p>

<h2><strong>Ram Lalla decked in jewelery, forehead adorned in silver and red tilak</strong></h2>

<p>After the Ram Lalla idol's Pran Pratishtha (consecration) was performed by PM Modi on Monday (Jan 22) at the Ayodhya Ram Temple's sanctum sanctorum, the 51-inch idol's first look was revealed to the world.</p>

<p>Karnataka's&nbsp;Arun Yogiraj had sculpted the idol which portrayed Ram Lalla as a five-year-old child.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-mandir-30-years-300-columns-3d-structural-analysis-architect-narrates-journey-of-temple-designing-682206">Ram Mandir | 30 years, 300 columns, 3D structural analysis: Architect narrates journey of temple designing</a></p>

<p>The Trust authorities selected the idol over the other two stating that it captured the god's royalty, divinity and innocence at the finest. The idol was decked with different jewellery pieces from head to feet and had a golden bow and arrow on its hand. Silver and red tilak adorned the idol's forehead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The idol of Ram Lalla was clad in a yellow dhoti, which blended beautifully with the jewellery and the yellow colours of flowers. The idol of Ram Lalla is 51 inches tall, which was approximately the height of a five-year-old during that time.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ayodhya Ram Mandir: PM Modi performs aarti in front of Ram Lalla's idol</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ayodhya-ram-mandir-pm-modi-performs-aarti-in-front-of-ram-lallas-idol-682393/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The consecration ceremony was attended by numerous guests which included Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan and his son Abhishek Bachchan, as well as Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Katrina Kaif, Vicky Kaushal.</p>

<p>Cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and Anil Kumble were present at the ceremony. Business tycoons and other celebrities also participated in the historic event.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In the much-awaited Ram Mandir consecration ceremony which took place in India's temple city of Ayodhya, the Ram Lalla idol's face was revealed on Monday (Jan 22).

In the much-awaited Ram Mandir consecration ceremony which took place in India's temple city of Ayodhya, the Ram Lalla idol's face was revealed on Monday (Jan 22). Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had observed an 11-day satvik ritual, unveiled the idol of Lord Ram depicted as a five-year-old. He was accompanied by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat in the consecration ceremony. Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Moment Ram Lalla's face unveiled #WIONOriginals #RamMandirPranPrathistha pic.twitter.com/pZv6nBIwQW — WION (@WIONews) January 22, 2024 × The 'Pran Pratishtha' (consecration) ceremony was performed by PM Modi in the 84-second 'muhurta', or auspicious time of the day, before which he participated in other rituals. The prime minister had reached the Ram Temple a few minutes before the rituals amid celebrations. Ram Lalla decked in jewelery, forehead adorned in silver and red tilak After the Ram Lalla idol's Pran Pratishtha (consecration) was performed by PM Modi on Monday (Jan 22) at the Ayodhya Ram Temple's sanctum sanctorum, the 51-inch idol's first look was revealed to the world. Karnataka's Arun Yogiraj had sculpted the idol which portrayed Ram Lalla as a five-year-old child. Also read: Ram Mandir | 30 years, 300 columns, 3D structural analysis: Architect narrates journey of temple designing The Trust authorities selected the idol over the other two stating that it captured the god's royalty, divinity and innocence at the finest. The idol was decked with different jewellery pieces from head to feet and had a golden bow and arrow on its hand. Silver and red tilak adorned the idol's forehead. The idol of Ram Lalla was clad in a yellow dhoti, which blended beautifully with the jewellery and the yellow colours of flowers. The idol of Ram Lalla is 51 inches tall, which was approximately the height of a five-year-old during that time. Watch: Ayodhya Ram Mandir: PM Modi performs aarti in front of Ram Lalla's idol The consecration ceremony was attended by numerous guests which included Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan and his son Abhishek Bachchan, as well as Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Katrina Kaif, Vicky Kaushal. Cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and Anil Kumble were present at the ceremony. Business tycoons and other celebrities also participated in the historic event. (With inputs from agencies)

Ram Mandir: Watch moment Ram Lalla's idol revealed at temple consecration ceremony

<p>For the Sompuras, a father-son duo, it was a journey of more than 30 years to bring into reality the grandeur of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir which was&nbsp;consecrated on Monday (Jan 22).</p>

<p>Ashish Sompura – son of chief architect Chandrakant Sompura – said what has been created today is an extension of what was already present on paper 30 years ago.</p>

<p>“My father (Chandrakant Sompura) started designing the temple in 1988 when GD Birla presented the offer of designing the temple and introduced him to then VHP leader Ashok Singhal, who was at that time visiting India's temple city of Ayodhya,” Ashish told WION.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that a lot of work on the temple's design was completed at that time, and the current design is just an &nbsp;extension of the old design.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-mandir-inauguration-draws-cyber-scammers-exploiting-devotees-heres-how-682165">Ram Mandir inauguration draws cyber scammers exploiting devotees. Here’s how</a></p>

<p>“The design that was created by my father had been imprinted on the minds of the people, so we did not want to change that image. Also, the photograph of the initial model had already circulated widely and was being worshipped in various houses,” said the architect.</p>

<p>Sompura informed that the original design had two mandapas (pillared hall) and the new design includes&nbsp;five mandapas.</p>

<h2><strong>'First temple to undergo 3D structural analysis for next 2,500 years'</strong></h2>

<p>Emphasising the rare feature of Ram Mandir's garbh griha (sanctum sanctorum), Sompura said, “Garbgrihas are generally square in sharp, however, Ram temple's garbh griha, as well as shikhara (spires), is octagonal because it is related to Lord Vishnu. This is a very rare feature.”</p>

<p>“The temple is three-storeyed. On the ground floor, the idol Ram Lalla will be kept and the first floor will have Ram Darbar.”</p>

<p>Sompura said that the temple's structural strength has been analysed and it is unlikely to be affected by any kind of calamities for the next 2,500 years.</p>

<p>“This is the world's first temple to undergo 3D structural analysis for the next 2,500 years. This means the temple will not be affected by any calamities or earthquakes for such a long span of time,” he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration: Ayodhya ready for Ram Temple consecration</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ayodhya-ram-mandir-inauguration-ayodhya-ready-for-ram-temple-consecration-682187/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The temple has not been made using any iron or steel. Only stones, plain cement concrete and cement slurry have been used for the construction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Bansi Paharpur pink sandstones were brought from Bayana and marbles from Makrana in the Indian state of Rajasthan,” he said.</p>

<p>Explaining the importance of the Nagara style of temple architecture in which the Ram Mandir has been built, Sompura said, “There are 16 types of architecture in our shastras. Three styles are currently present in India – Nagara, Vesara and Dravidian style. Nagara style is popular in northern India. Nagara is the most developed style architecturally and stands out for its towering shikhara.”</p>

<p>The temple's height is 161 feet and its length is 360 feet. Its total width is 235 feet and there are 12 gates in the temple compound.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The temple complex has 392 pillars and 44 doors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After entering the main gate of “Singh Dwar”, there are 32 steps one needs to take to reach the main temple.</p>

<p>Expressing the&nbsp;happiness in the family at the creation of Ram Mandir, Sompura said, “When an architect's creation gets transformed into reality and people appreciate it, that is the biggest achievement for them. Also, my grandfather designed the Somnath temple, now we are makers of the Ram temple, so for us this is also a matter of pride that the two biggest temples of the country have been created by our family.”</p>


For the Sompuras, a father-son duo, it was a journey of more than 30 years to bring into reality the grandeur of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir which was consecrated on Monday (Jan 22).

For the Sompuras, a father-son duo, it was a journey of more than 30 years to bring into reality the grandeur of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir which was consecrated on Monday (Jan 22). Ashish Sompura – son of chief architect Chandrakant Sompura – said what has been created today is an extension of what was already present on paper 30 years ago. “My father (Chandrakant Sompura) started designing the temple in 1988 when GD Birla presented the offer of designing the temple and introduced him to then VHP leader Ashok Singhal, who was at that time visiting India's temple city of Ayodhya,” Ashish told WION. He said that a lot of work on the temple's design was completed at that time, and the current design is just an extension of the old design. Also read: Ram Mandir inauguration draws cyber scammers exploiting devotees. Here’s how “The design that was created by my father had been imprinted on the minds of the people, so we did not want to change that image. Also, the photograph of the initial model had already circulated widely and was being worshipped in various houses,” said the architect. Sompura informed that the original design had two mandapas (pillared hall) and the new design includes five mandapas. 'First temple to undergo 3D structural analysis for next 2,500 years' Emphasising the rare feature of Ram Mandir's garbh griha (sanctum sanctorum), Sompura said, “Garbgrihas are generally square in sharp, however, Ram temple's garbh griha, as well as shikhara (spires), is octagonal because it is related to Lord Vishnu. This is a very rare feature.” “The temple is three-storeyed. On the ground floor, the idol Ram Lalla will be kept and the first floor will have Ram Darbar.” Sompura said that the temple's structural strength has been analysed and it is unlikely to be affected by any kind of calamities for the next 2,500 years. “This is the world's first temple to undergo 3D structural analysis for the next 2,500 years. This means the temple will not be affected by any calamities or earthquakes for such a long span of time,” he said. Watch: Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration: Ayodhya ready for Ram Temple consecration The temple has not been made using any iron or steel. Only stones, plain cement concrete and cement slurry have been used for the construction. “Bansi Paharpur pink sandstones were brought from Bayana and marbles from Makrana in the Indian state of Rajasthan,” he said. Explaining the importance of the Nagara style of temple architecture in which the Ram Mandir has been built, Sompura said, “There are 16 types of architecture in our shastras. Three styles are currently present in India – Nagara, Vesara and Dravidian style. Nagara style is popular in northern India. Nagara is the most developed style architecturally and stands out for its towering shikhara.” The temple's height is 161 feet and its length is 360 feet. Its total width is 235 feet and there are 12 gates in the temple compound. The temple complex has 392 pillars and 44 doors. After entering the main gate of “Singh Dwar”, there are 32 steps one needs to take to reach the main temple. Expressing the happiness in the family at the creation of Ram Mandir, Sompura said, “When an architect's creation gets transformed into reality and people appreciate it, that is the biggest achievement for them. Also, my grandfather designed the Somnath temple, now we are makers of the Ram temple, so for us this is also a matter of pride that the two biggest temples of the country have been created by our family.”

Ram Mandir | 30 years, 300 columns, 3D structural analysis: Architect narrates journey of temple designing

<p>The consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya's Ram Mandir took place in&nbsp;Abhijeet muhurat's most auspicious 84 seconds which&nbsp;started at 12:29:03 pm and lasted till 12.30:35 pm local time. As per reports, these 84 seconds are the most sacred seconds of the Abhijeet muhurat&nbsp;which lasts for 48 minutes and is the eighth muhurat (auspicious time)&nbsp;that comes every day. The ceremony will take place in this time period when the Sun reaches its peak during the Abhijeet muhurat.</p>

<p>While the Pran Pratishtha (consecration)&nbsp;ceremony was scheduled to start earlier than this time, the actual Pran Pratishtha had to be held in those 84 seconds, according to religious leaders.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-mandir-a-timeline-of-ayodhya-land-dispute-leading-up-to-inauguration-680969">Ram Mandir consecration: A timeline of Ram Janmabhoomi, the birthplace of Lord Ram</a></p>

<p>Abhijeet muhurat is the eighth muhurat of the day which takes place between sunrise and sunset and remains for 48 minutes. The Pran Pratishtha will occur in the time period of Abhijeet Muhurat.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | "The auspicious time for the consecration is on 22nd January 2024 at noon, during the 'Abhijeet Muhurat', when the sun is at its peak intensity," says Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid on the 84-second auspicious time for the consecration of the Ram Temple. <a href="https://t.co/JrIMNBIRZU">pic.twitter.com/JrIMNBIRZU</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1738576373977866444?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The priests chose the date and the muhurat as per the Hindu scriptures. As per reports, Lord Ram was born in Abhijeet Muhurat, which aligned with Mrigashira Nakshatra, Amrit Siddhi Yoga and Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Temple set to become the largest in India, stands at a height of 161</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ayodhya-ram-mandir-temple-set-to-become-the-largest-in-india-stands-at-a-height-of-161-682234/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>PM Modi's&nbsp;religious sojourn</strong></h2>

<p>The Pran Pratishtha ceremony's pre-consecration rituals started a week before on January 16. An 11-day satvik&nbsp;ritual was observed by the Indian prime minister to take part in the consecration ceremony during which the leader slept on the floor and only consumed fruits and coconut water. Ahead of the consecration ceremony on Monday (Jan 22), the prime minister participated in the rituals.</p>

<p>The prime minister, in the last few days, took a religious sojourn as he visited various temples in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and then Tamil Nadu, which is linked with Ramayana.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When the auspicious time was chosen, Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid said that the birth of Lord Ram took place at noon when the Sun had reached its peak. The priests had chosen January 22 for holding the consecration ceremony as it is the 12th day (Dwadashi) of Paush (the tenth month of the Hindu calendar) Shukla. "This time is good. People will get a good sense, mental peace by serving God," said Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid, while explaining the significance of the time and date chosen.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya's Ram Mandir took place in Abhijeet muhurat's most auspicious 84 seconds which started at 12:29:03 pm and lasted till 12.

The consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya's Ram Mandir took place in Abhijeet muhurat's most auspicious 84 seconds which started at 12:29:03 pm and lasted till 12.30:35 pm local time. As per reports, these 84 seconds are the most sacred seconds of the Abhijeet muhurat which lasts for 48 minutes and is the eighth muhurat (auspicious time) that comes every day. The ceremony will take place in this time period when the Sun reaches its peak during the Abhijeet muhurat. While the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony was scheduled to start earlier than this time, the actual Pran Pratishtha had to be held in those 84 seconds, according to religious leaders. Also read: Ram Mandir consecration: A timeline of Ram Janmabhoomi, the birthplace of Lord Ram Abhijeet muhurat is the eighth muhurat of the day which takes place between sunrise and sunset and remains for 48 minutes. The Pran Pratishtha will occur in the time period of Abhijeet Muhurat. VIDEO | "The auspicious time for the consecration is on 22nd January 2024 at noon, during the 'Abhijeet Muhurat', when the sun is at its peak intensity," says Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid on the 84-second auspicious time for the consecration of the Ram Temple. pic.twitter.com/JrIMNBIRZU — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 23, 2023 × The priests chose the date and the muhurat as per the Hindu scriptures. As per reports, Lord Ram was born in Abhijeet Muhurat, which aligned with Mrigashira Nakshatra, Amrit Siddhi Yoga and Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga. Watch: Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Temple set to become the largest in India, stands at a height of 161 PM Modi's religious sojourn The Pran Pratishtha ceremony's pre-consecration rituals started a week before on January 16. An 11-day satvik ritual was observed by the Indian prime minister to take part in the consecration ceremony during which the leader slept on the floor and only consumed fruits and coconut water. Ahead of the consecration ceremony on Monday (Jan 22), the prime minister participated in the rituals. The prime minister, in the last few days, took a religious sojourn as he visited various temples in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and then Tamil Nadu, which is linked with Ramayana. When the auspicious time was chosen, Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid said that the birth of Lord Ram took place at noon when the Sun had reached its peak. The priests had chosen January 22 for holding the consecration ceremony as it is the 12th day (Dwadashi) of Paush (the tenth month of the Hindu calendar) Shukla. "This time is good. People will get a good sense, mental peace by serving God," said Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid, while explaining the significance of the time and date chosen. (With inputs from agencies)

Ram Mandir consecration ceremony: The auspicious 84-second period for Ram Lalla's Pran Pratishtha

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<p>After days of speculation, the Ram Mandir authorities in the northern Indian city of Ayodhya have finally revealed the Ram idol which is set to be installed in the&nbsp;<em>'garbhagriha'&nbsp;</em>or sanctum sanctorum of the temple in the mega-consecration ceremony to be held on January 22.</p>

<p>The man, who has given shape to the god, is Karnataka’s renowned sculptor Arun Yogiraj, who along with the other two skilled artisans - Ganesh Bhatt from Bengaluru and Satya Narayan Pandey from Rajasthan – had been shortlisted earlier for creating statues of Ram Lalla, Hindu god Lord Ram's child-like form.</p>

<p>Yogiraj's sculpture has now been officially chosen and his family is elated at the achievement.</p>

<p>Narrating the journey of the god-maker to WION, Yogiraj's wife Vijetha Arun Yogiraj said: "In January 2023 many artists from India were invited to present their previous work in the national capital Delhi and after scrutiny, three artists were selected to make Lord Ram's idol. Arun started working on the idol in the month of June in Ayodhya and completed the idol after six months of hard work."</p>

<p>"The stone was already given to him by the Ayodhya temple's committee. The stone was selected and researchers had conducted a testing of the stone and after it was found suitable for making an idol, it was handed over to the artist," she added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ram-mandir-vedic-rituals-to-begin-from-today-in-ayodhya-680377"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Ram Mandir: Vedic rituals to begin from today in Ayodhya</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>What makes Krishna Shila stone the perfect choice?</strong></h2>

<p>The stone used for making the Ram idol – Krishna Shila – came as a surprise to many especially because of its bluish-grey colour.</p>

<p>Speaking about how Krishna Shila stone is a good choice for making the idol, Vijetha said: "It was decided by the temple authorities what kind of stone has to be used for making the idol. The Krishna Shila stone is a monolithic stone – which is one stone from which the whole idol is made."</p>

<p>"Krishna Sila is a stone which does not react to anything like acid. When you pour milk on the idol, the stone will not react to anything. Krishna sila is bluish grey and when you apply coconut and burnt cocoa powder, it turns black. Over the years, it hardens and does not react to anything. There are 5,000-year-old temples where idols have been made using Krishna Shila stones and have till now not reacted to any weather conditions."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-four-prominent-shankaracharyas-to-skip-inauguration-in-ayodhya-heres-why-679054"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Ram Temple: Four prominent Shankaracharyas to skip inauguration in Ayodhya. Here’s why</strong></a></p>

<p>"A team of researchers had selected different stones from various parts of the country. After testing of the rocks, the final rocks had reached Ayodhya Dham. It was long back that the rocks were finalised and were worshipped and later given to the sculptors," she added.</p>

<p>Vishva Hindu Parishad's (VHP) International Working President Alok Kumar, speaking about how the stone was tested, told WION, "All the final stones were tested through all possible methods to ensure that they are good and will last for 1,000 years. And then, these stones were given to the sculptors."</p>

<h2><strong>Yogiraj's journey from an MBA-graduate to sculptor</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking about what made Yogiraj, an MBA-graduate, turn into a sculptor, his wife said, "Arun comes from a five-generation family of artists and in our home only we have our workshop. So, every day he used to see people sculpting which included his father and other sculptors doing this job. He also participated in sculpting from time to time. And at one point, he decided to join this profession and not go for a corporate job, after which he became a professional sculptor."</p>

<p>Expressing how exhilarated the family is at his selection, Vijetha said, "When he was shortlisted for sculpting the idol of Ram Lalla, we were all excited. We were so happy and felt that we had done some good deed, that is why we have got such an opportunity. We were informed by the media. We started celebrating from the day he was chosen to make the idol. When they told us that all three idols would be installed in the temple itself, that was the happiest moment."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


After days of speculation, the Ram Mandir authorities in the northern Indian city of Ayodhya have finally revealed the Ram idol which is set to be installed in the 'garbhagriha' or sanctum sanctorum of the temple in the mega-consecration ceremony to be held on January 22.

After days of speculation, the Ram Mandir authorities in the northern Indian city of Ayodhya have finally revealed the Ram idol which is set to be installed in the 'garbhagriha' or sanctum sanctorum of the temple in the mega-consecration ceremony to be held on January 22. The man, who has given shape to the god, is Karnataka’s renowned sculptor Arun Yogiraj, who along with the other two skilled artisans - Ganesh Bhatt from Bengaluru and Satya Narayan Pandey from Rajasthan – had been shortlisted earlier for creating statues of Ram Lalla, Hindu god Lord Ram's child-like form. Yogiraj's sculpture has now been officially chosen and his family is elated at the achievement. Narrating the journey of the god-maker to WION, Yogiraj's wife Vijetha Arun Yogiraj said: "In January 2023 many artists from India were invited to present their previous work in the national capital Delhi and after scrutiny, three artists were selected to make Lord Ram's idol. Arun started working on the idol in the month of June in Ayodhya and completed the idol after six months of hard work." "The stone was already given to him by the Ayodhya temple's committee. The stone was selected and researchers had conducted a testing of the stone and after it was found suitable for making an idol, it was handed over to the artist," she added. Watch | Ram Mandir: Vedic rituals to begin from today in Ayodhya × What makes Krishna Shila stone the perfect choice? The stone used for making the Ram idol – Krishna Shila – came as a surprise to many especially because of its bluish-grey colour. Speaking about how Krishna Shila stone is a good choice for making the idol, Vijetha said: "It was decided by the temple authorities what kind of stone has to be used for making the idol. The Krishna Shila stone is a monolithic stone – which is one stone from which the whole idol is made." "Krishna Sila is a stone which does not react to anything like acid. When you pour milk on the idol, the stone will not react to anything. Krishna sila is bluish grey and when you apply coconut and burnt cocoa powder, it turns black. Over the years, it hardens and does not react to anything. There are 5,000-year-old temples where idols have been made using Krishna Shila stones and have till now not reacted to any weather conditions." Also read | Ram Temple: Four prominent Shankaracharyas to skip inauguration in Ayodhya. Here’s why "A team of researchers had selected different stones from various parts of the country. After testing of the rocks, the final rocks had reached Ayodhya Dham. It was long back that the rocks were finalised and were worshipped and later given to the sculptors," she added. Vishva Hindu Parishad's (VHP) International Working President Alok Kumar, speaking about how the stone was tested, told WION, "All the final stones were tested through all possible methods to ensure that they are good and will last for 1,000 years. And then, these stones were given to the sculptors." Yogiraj's journey from an MBA-graduate to sculptor Speaking about what made Yogiraj, an MBA-graduate, turn into a sculptor, his wife said, "Arun comes from a five-generation family of artists and in our home only we have our workshop. So, every day he used to see people sculpting which included his father and other sculptors doing this job. He also participated in sculpting from time to time. And at one point, he decided to join this profession and not go for a corporate job, after which he became a professional sculptor." Expressing how exhilarated the family is at his selection, Vijetha said, "When he was shortlisted for sculpting the idol of Ram Lalla, we were all excited. We were so happy and felt that we had done some good deed, that is why we have got such an opportunity. We were informed by the media. We started celebrating from the day he was chosen to make the idol. When they told us that all three idols would be installed in the temple itself, that was the happiest moment."

Ram Mandir Ram Lalla idol: Sculptor Yogiraj's wife tells WION story of its creation

7 Superfoods To Eat For Healthy And Strong Teeth


Leafy vegetables like lettuce, carrots, spinach and celery are filled with folic acid, which is a type of vitamin B that helps in dealing with gum diseases.

Apples are a good source of water and fibre which simulate the production of saliva. Also, the natural sugar in apples helps neutralise harmful acids in the mouth. Meanwhile, amla and guava are great sources of vitamin C which helps in the production of collagen and keeps gums strong and healthy.


Nuts like pistachio, walnuts, cashews and almonds are filled with micronutrients. Almonds contain an amino acid known as arginine which aids in the reduction of the risk of cavities and increases the production of saliva which prevents gum diseases.


Seafood, especially fish, is filled with omega-3 fatty acids which aid reduction of gum inflammation and quicken the process of healing.

Green tea is a nutrient-rich drink, which is filled with Polyphenols and Catechin, and helps decrease the risk of periodontal diseases.


Legumes like black urad dal, black chana and chickpeas are nutritional powerhouses filled with folic acid, magnesium, zinc, and iron which strengthen the enamel and decrease the chances of tooth decay.


Dairy products, like milk and cheese, contain a protein called Casein which repairs and builds enamel. Milk is also filled with phosphorus, which is another enamel-protecting nutrient, while cheese is filled with phosphate, which helps balance the mouth's pH level.


7 Superfoods To Eat For Healthy And Strong Teeth

7 Symptoms Which Hint At Deficiency Of Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12–deficiency anaemia is also known as cobalamin deficiency and a pale or jaundiced skin tone is a clear symptom.


Breathlessness, which is also called dyspnea, can be understood as one where shortness of breath happens. It is also one of the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.

A person can suffer chronic dizziness or can feel unsteady when walking because of compromised neurological function which occurs due to vitamin B12 deficiency.

Numbness or tingling sensation is a neurological symptom which occurs because of a deficiency of vitamin B12. 

Cognitive problems like difficulty concentrating, memory lapses and brain fog have been linked to vitamin B12 deficiency.

Emotional disturbances like irritability, anxiety, depression and even psychosis are associated with low vitamin B12 levels.


Mouth ulcers or inflammation which occurs on the tongue, known as glossitis or stomatitis, is an indicator of a deficiency of vitamin B12.

5 Lifestyle Changes Which May Help You Live Longer

1. Pursuing Goals Is Important, Not Achieving Them


As per a study conducted by Stanford University, it was found that pursuance of a goal can keep people healthier and give them a longer life.

Another secret of longevity is having great degrees of personal organisation. An organised person can sleep better, is less stressed, maintains healthy habits, and is able to take care of money in a better way.

Exercise is very important for leading a long and healthy life because it increases resistance, prevents fat gain and strengthens bones. However, it is also important to indulge in functional exercise – which helps you carry out daily activities more easily - and resistance exercise – which stops the loss of muscle mass as age increases.

For a longer life, one must dedicate time to relationships and work towards strengthening them, while staying social. Stanford as well as other institutions have said that good relationships with family and friends are important for longevity.

A healthy diet plays an essential role in a healthy and long life. It is important to not only consume healthy foods, vegetables and fruits, but it is also important to ensure that the food is not coming from a contaminated place and carrying any disease which can be harmful to 

7 Picturesque Indian Islands You Can Visit, Beyond Maldives

Swaraj Dweep, which was earlier called Havelock Island, has one of the finest beaches in the world and surreal blue waters which attract tourists from all corners of the world.


The Lakshadweep islands, which have recently become the central point of tension between India and Maldives, offer people a chance to indulge in activities like scuba diving and snorkelling.

The island is located on the Brahmaputra River and can be reached from Jorhat in Assam via ferry boat. The place, with its breathtaking expanse, is known to attract travellers from far and near.

Munroe Island is a must-visit destination in Kerala and comes alive during the Onam festival. The place's highlights are narrow waterways and canal cruises.


Rameshwaram Island gives travellers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal and mesmerises them with its beauty. The island, which is connected to the mainland through one of the longest sea bridges in India, has a number of temples and beaches, as well as cultural landmarks like Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple.


Goa's Chorao Island is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and hosts the largest bird sanctuary in the state, showcasing the region's rich flora and fauna. This still-to-be-discovered island is filled with colonial structures and beautiful churches and is an ideal retreat from urban life's daily hustle and bustle.

Diu Island, which is famous for its secluded beaches, reflects Portuguese influences and is filled with remnants of Portuguese culture.


<p lang="en-US">The last hearing of former US president Donald Trump’s fraud trial started off in a frenzy in New York on Thursday morning (Jan 11), as a bomb squad reached the home of the judge, who is overseeing the cases, and spectators, as well as reporters, packed the courtroom to see the end of the trial.<br />
<br />
Thursday was the last opportunity for the legal team of Trump to make an appeal to Judge Arthur Engoron, who is set to decide if a fine of $370 million should be imposed on Trump for allegedly falsifying financial statements to increase his net worth.<br />
<br />
Before the court hearing started, police in Nassau County on Long Island said that responding to a security incident at Engoron’s residence, they reached the home at 5.30 am (local time).<br />
<br />
Engoron, along with his staff, has faced frequent vitriolic criticism from Trump throughout the case, and his office received many death threats.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-knows-who-he-wants-to-be-his-vice-president-but-wont-reveal-679131">Trump knows who he wants to be his vice president, but won't reveal</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">On Wednesday (Jan 12), the legal team of Trump and Engoron clashed again over the unusual request of Trump to deliver his own closing arguments at the trial.<br />
<br />
Engoron did not allow Trump to speak after his lawyers failed to confirm that the former US president would not use the opportunity to deliver “a campaign speech” or “impugn myself, my staff, plaintiff, plaintiff’s staff, or the New York state court system”.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>What happened here, sir, is a fraud on me: Trump</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">However, Trump – who sat quietly during the closing arguments of the attorney – later started a rant in a bid to express his feelings.<br />
<br />
“We have a situation where I’m an innocent man,” Trump said to the judge. “They should pay me for what I’ve gone through. This is not consumer fraud. This is no fraud. It is a fraud on me,” he added.<br />
<br />
Trump claimed that he was persecuted by “someone running for office” while making reference to New York Attorney General Letitia James, who brought the case against Trump.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US: Trump's trial reaches its climax after clashes with the judge</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-trumps-trial-reaches-its-climax-after-clashes-with-the-judge-679172/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">Before Trump started speaking, the judge had reluctantly agreed to give the US president five minutes but had asked him to “focus on the facts” of the case.<br />
<br />
Trump also made insulting remarks at the judge as well as the attorney general Letitia James, who was present in the court.<br />
<br />
“I know this is boring to you. I know you have your own agenda,” said Trump, angrily to the judge, while sitting at the defence table. He added that James “hates” him and “doesn’t want him to get elected,” and called the case a “persecution".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The last hearing of former US president Donald Trump’s fraud trial started off in a frenzy in New York on Thursday morning (Jan 11), as a bomb squad reached the home of the judge, who is overseeing the cases, and spectators, as well as reporters, packed the courtroom to see the end of the trial.

The last hearing of former US president Donald Trump’s fraud trial started off in a frenzy in New York on Thursday morning (Jan 11), as a bomb squad reached the home of the judge, who is overseeing the cases, and spectators, as well as reporters, packed the courtroom to see the end of the trial. Thursday was the last opportunity for the legal team of Trump to make an appeal to Judge Arthur Engoron, who is set to decide if a fine of $370 million should be imposed on Trump for allegedly falsifying financial statements to increase his net worth. Before the court hearing started, police in Nassau County on Long Island said that responding to a security incident at Engoron’s residence, they reached the home at 5.30 am (local time). Engoron, along with his staff, has faced frequent vitriolic criticism from Trump throughout the case, and his office received many death threats. Also read: Trump knows who he wants to be his vice president, but won't reveal On Wednesday (Jan 12), the legal team of Trump and Engoron clashed again over the unusual request of Trump to deliver his own closing arguments at the trial. Engoron did not allow Trump to speak after his lawyers failed to confirm that the former US president would not use the opportunity to deliver “a campaign speech” or “impugn myself, my staff, plaintiff, plaintiff’s staff, or the New York state court system”. What happened here, sir, is a fraud on me: Trump However, Trump – who sat quietly during the closing arguments of the attorney – later started a rant in a bid to express his feelings. “We have a situation where I’m an innocent man,” Trump said to the judge. “They should pay me for what I’ve gone through. This is not consumer fraud. This is no fraud. It is a fraud on me,” he added. Trump claimed that he was persecuted by “someone running for office” while making reference to New York Attorney General Letitia James, who brought the case against Trump. Watch: US: Trump's trial reaches its climax after clashes with the judge Before Trump started speaking, the judge had reluctantly agreed to give the US president five minutes but had asked him to “focus on the facts” of the case. Trump also made insulting remarks at the judge as well as the attorney general Letitia James, who was present in the court. “I know this is boring to you. I know you have your own agenda,” said Trump, angrily to the judge, while sitting at the defence table. He added that James “hates” him and “doesn’t want him to get elected,” and called the case a “persecution". (With inputs from agencies)

NY fraud trial: Trump calls himself 'innocent', claims ‘what happened here is fraud on me’

<p lang="en-US">A cluster of lost cities has been uncovered by archaeologists in the Amazon rainforest, which housed at least 10,000 farmers nearly 2,000 years ago.<br />
<br />
Archaeologist Stephen Rostain, more than two decades ago, had for the first time noticed a series of earthen mounds and buried roads.<br />
<br />
However, at that time, “I wasn’t sure how it all fit together,” said Rostain, who was among the researchers who had for the first time reported about the finding of the lost cities in the journal Science on Thursday (Jan 11), reported the Associated Press.<br />
<br />
The recent mapping of the place, using laser-sensor technology, revealed that the sites will be part of the dense network of connecting roadways and settlements, which are hidden in the forested foothills of the Andes, which lasted nearly 1,000 years.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-violence-178-prison-guards-staff-held-hostage-by-gangs-679148">Ecuador violence: 178 prison guards, staff held hostage by gangs</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">Rostain, who carried out investigations at France’s National Center for Scientific Research, said, “It was a lost valley of cities. It’s incredible.”</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>'Extremely complicated society' reflected in mapping: Researcher</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The researchers discovered that, between about 500 BC and AD 300 to 600, the settlements were occupied by the Upano people – a period which is nearly contemporaneous with the Roman empire in Europe.<br />
<br />
Agricultural fields with drainage canals surrounded the ceremonial and residential buildings which were erected on more than 6,000 earthen mounds. The largest roads were stretched for 6-12 miles (10-20km) and were 33 feet (10 meters) wide.<br />
<br />
A study co-author at the same French institute, archaeologist Antoine Dorison said that although it is difficult to estimate the population, the site was earlier home to around 10,000 inhabitants.<br />
<br />
University of Florida archaeologist Michael Heckenberger, who was not a part of the study, said, “This shows a very dense occupation and an extremely complicated society. For the region, it’s really in a class of its own in terms of how early it is.”<br />
<br />
University of Exeter archaeologist Jose Iriarte said that at the time they would have needed an elaborate system of organised labour for building the roads as well as thousands of earthen mounds.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Scientists stunned as Himalayas get cooler despite global climate crisis</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-stunned-as-himalayas-get-cooler-despite-global-climate-crisis-669187/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">“The Incas and Mayans built with stone, but people in Amazonia didn’t usually have stone available to build – they built with mud. It’s still an immense amount of labour,” said Iriarte, while speaking to the Associated Press.<br />
<br />
The Amazon is generally seen as a “pristine wilderness with only small groups of people. But recent discoveries have shown us how much more complex the past really is,” he said.<br />
<br />
“There’s always been an incredible diversity of people and settlements in the Amazon, not only one way to live. We’re just learning more about them,” Rostain added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


A cluster of lost cities has been uncovered by archaeologists in the Amazon rainforest, which housed at least 10,000 farmers nearly 2,000 years ago. Archaeologist Stephen Rostain, more than two decades ago, had for the first time noticed a series of earthen mounds and buried roads.

A cluster of lost cities has been uncovered by archaeologists in the Amazon rainforest, which housed at least 10,000 farmers nearly 2,000 years ago. Archaeologist Stephen Rostain, more than two decades ago, had for the first time noticed a series of earthen mounds and buried roads. However, at that time, “I wasn’t sure how it all fit together,” said Rostain, who was among the researchers who had for the first time reported about the finding of the lost cities in the journal Science on Thursday (Jan 11), reported the Associated Press. The recent mapping of the place, using laser-sensor technology, revealed that the sites will be part of the dense network of connecting roadways and settlements, which are hidden in the forested foothills of the Andes, which lasted nearly 1,000 years. Also read: Ecuador violence: 178 prison guards, staff held hostage by gangs Rostain, who carried out investigations at France’s National Center for Scientific Research, said, “It was a lost valley of cities. It’s incredible.” 'Extremely complicated society' reflected in mapping: Researcher The researchers discovered that, between about 500 BC and AD 300 to 600, the settlements were occupied by the Upano people – a period which is nearly contemporaneous with the Roman empire in Europe. Agricultural fields with drainage canals surrounded the ceremonial and residential buildings which were erected on more than 6,000 earthen mounds. The largest roads were stretched for 6-12 miles (10-20km) and were 33 feet (10 meters) wide. A study co-author at the same French institute, archaeologist Antoine Dorison said that although it is difficult to estimate the population, the site was earlier home to around 10,000 inhabitants. University of Florida archaeologist Michael Heckenberger, who was not a part of the study, said, “This shows a very dense occupation and an extremely complicated society. For the region, it’s really in a class of its own in terms of how early it is.” University of Exeter archaeologist Jose Iriarte said that at the time they would have needed an elaborate system of organised labour for building the roads as well as thousands of earthen mounds. Watch: Scientists stunned as Himalayas get cooler despite global climate crisis “The Incas and Mayans built with stone, but people in Amazonia didn’t usually have stone available to build – they built with mud. It’s still an immense amount of labour,” said Iriarte, while speaking to the Associated Press. The Amazon is generally seen as a “pristine wilderness with only small groups of people. But recent discoveries have shown us how much more complex the past really is,” he said. “There’s always been an incredible diversity of people and settlements in the Amazon, not only one way to live. We’re just learning more about them,” Rostain added. (With inputs from agencies)

Archaeologists uncover lost cities which existed 2,000 years ago in Ecuadorian Amazon

<p lang="en-US">The case filed against Brittany Watts – a woman from Ohio – who had suffered a miscarriage and was facing indictment for abuse of a corpse, will not be taken forward, decided the grand jury on Thursday (Jan 11).<br />
<br />
The grand jury of Trumbull County, Ohio, refused to indict Watts, against whom a case was filed by the police after she suffered a miscarriage in September. The judges cancelled the indictment by returning a “no-bill” in Watts’s case.<br />
<br />
The case&nbsp;has led to nationwide shock and outcry. It is being&nbsp;held as an example by experts in reproductive health and justice of how pregnant women can easily face criminal consequences, since the overturning of Roe v Wade.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-face-brutal-arctic-blast-temperatures-likely-to-drop-to-minus-30s-679285">US to face brutal Arctic blast, temperatures likely to drop to minus 30s</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">In a statement on Thursday (Jan 11), reproductive justice advocacy group If/When/How's senior litigation counsel Yveka Pierra said, “This decision does not erase the harm that Brittany has experienced as the result of this case. Brittany should have been able to focus on taking care of herself after her pregnancy loss.”<br />
<br />
“Cases like Brittany’s show us that, depending on your identity, the state treats some losses as tragedies and other losses as crimes,” Pierra added.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Watts suffered a miscarriage inside the toilet</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">As per reports, Watts had suffered a miscarriage in the toilet in September when she had completed only 22 weeks of her pregnancy. She then made efforts to remove the mass which had clogged the toilet and visited the hospital, where a nurse reportedly called the police.<br />
<br />
Earlier, Watts had visited the hospital and was showing signs that her water had broken prematurely. Such a condition makes it impossible to carry on with pregnancy and if the woman is not treated, she can slip into deadly sepsis.<br />
<br />
Ohio’s “abuse of a corpse” charge depends on whether a corpse was treated by someone in a way that would “outrage reasonable community sensibilities”. If Watts had been convicted of the fifth-degree felony, she would have been in prison for a year.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US: Donald Trump's New York Civil fraud trial wraps up, judge asks lawyers to 'control your client'</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-donald-trumps-new-york-civil-fraud-trial-wraps-up-judge-asks-lawyers-to-control-your-client-679289/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">Before the jury decided on Thursday, an open letter was sent by Ohio Physicians for Reproductive Rights to Trumbull County prosecutor Dennis Watkins, on Watts’s behalf.<br />
<br />
“By seeking to indict her, you are clearly implying that anyone who miscarries at any point in pregnancy in our state must retrieve the fetal tissue whether they are at home, at work, at school, at a restaurant or other public place and preserve it until the tissue can be disposed of properly even though Ohio law does not define what a proper disposal method would be nor require that this non-existent method be used,” wrote the group.<br />
<br />
“We have no doubt that women facing the threat of jail time and hefty fines will conceal the fact that they have miscarried and refuse to seek treatment,” they added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The case filed against Brittany Watts – a woman from Ohio – who had suffered a miscarriage and was facing indictment for abuse of a corpse, will not be taken forward, decided the grand jury on Thursday (Jan 11).

The case filed against Brittany Watts – a woman from Ohio – who had suffered a miscarriage and was facing indictment for abuse of a corpse, will not be taken forward, decided the grand jury on Thursday (Jan 11). The grand jury of Trumbull County, Ohio, refused to indict Watts, against whom a case was filed by the police after she suffered a miscarriage in September. The judges cancelled the indictment by returning a “no-bill” in Watts’s case. The case has led to nationwide shock and outcry. It is being held as an example by experts in reproductive health and justice of how pregnant women can easily face criminal consequences, since the overturning of Roe v Wade. Also read: US to face brutal Arctic blast, temperatures likely to drop to minus 30s In a statement on Thursday (Jan 11), reproductive justice advocacy group If/When/How's senior litigation counsel Yveka Pierra said, “This decision does not erase the harm that Brittany has experienced as the result of this case. Brittany should have been able to focus on taking care of herself after her pregnancy loss.” “Cases like Brittany’s show us that, depending on your identity, the state treats some losses as tragedies and other losses as crimes,” Pierra added. Watts suffered a miscarriage inside the toilet As per reports, Watts had suffered a miscarriage in the toilet in September when she had completed only 22 weeks of her pregnancy. She then made efforts to remove the mass which had clogged the toilet and visited the hospital, where a nurse reportedly called the police. Earlier, Watts had visited the hospital and was showing signs that her water had broken prematurely. Such a condition makes it impossible to carry on with pregnancy and if the woman is not treated, she can slip into deadly sepsis. Ohio’s “abuse of a corpse” charge depends on whether a corpse was treated by someone in a way that would “outrage reasonable community sensibilities”. If Watts had been convicted of the fifth-degree felony, she would have been in prison for a year. Watch: US: Donald Trump's New York Civil fraud trial wraps up, judge asks lawyers to 'control your client' Before the jury decided on Thursday, an open letter was sent by Ohio Physicians for Reproductive Rights to Trumbull County prosecutor Dennis Watkins, on Watts’s behalf. “By seeking to indict her, you are clearly implying that anyone who miscarries at any point in pregnancy in our state must retrieve the fetal tissue whether they are at home, at work, at school, at a restaurant or other public place and preserve it until the tissue can be disposed of properly even though Ohio law does not define what a proper disposal method would be nor require that this non-existent method be used,” wrote the group. “We have no doubt that women facing the threat of jail time and hefty fines will conceal the fact that they have miscarried and refuse to seek treatment,” they added. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Jury decides not to indict Ohio woman for abuse of corpse after miscarriage

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