Located in the very soul of Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir stands as a sublime testament to the harmonious fusion of architectural brilliance and steadfast devotion. Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 22, 2024, this magnificent temple is not merely a structure, it is an enduring symbol of faith designed to withstand the test of a millennium, devoid of any steel reinforcement. At the helm of its creation is Larsen & Toubro Construction, orchestrating a symphony of design and construction under the guidance of architect C. B. Sompura and project management consultant Tata Consulting Engineers. Together, they breathe life into the ancient Nagara style, weaving a narrative that transcends time.
The foundation system underwent a meticulous selection process, considering options such as Plain Cement Concrete Raft and Stone Raft. After thorough evaluation by L&T, TCE, TRUST, and an expert team, a 1.5m thick Plain Cement Concrete Raft was chosen. IIT Madras carried out different mix designs for a 1000-year design life, recommending parameters such as Grade of concrete (M35 at 56 days), Placement temperature (20°C), and a composition of Cement, Flash, Slag, and Water. The self-compacting concrete, totaling 9,400 cubic meters, was monitored using 10 settlement sensors to observe differential settlement.
Despite the challenging monsoon season, strategic measures, including layering, drain channels, and tarpaulin sheets, ensured uninterrupted construction. More than 5000 tonnes of aggregate were procured daily, facilitated by special status for trucks along the transportation route. A colossal 47 lakh cubic feet of roller-compacted concrete, a dry lean concrete variant, was meticulously laid in 56 layers. Utilizing VSI Stage 3 Aggregate, obtained from five reactivated plants, the project achieved a peak concreting output of over 2200 cubic meters per day and 38500 cubic meters per month for two consecutive months.
The interior of the temple boasts an intricate display of craftsmanship. The ground floor proudly supports 166 pillars, while the first-floor features 142, and the second floor includes 82, with an additional six Makrana Marble pillars on each floor. Adorned with over 10,000 meticulously carved Moortis and Themes, these pillars are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India.
The temple’s construction utilized granite stones, each measuring 1.5m x 0.75m x 0.90m, intricately arranged with interlocking precision. In total, nearly 17,400 cubic meters (6.1 lakhs cu.ft.) of granite stone were utilized, organized in seven layers. To optimize efficiency and minimize carbon emissions, these granite stones were transported by train, utilizing 745 containers spread across 17 trains. This strategic approach not only reduced transportation time but also aligned with environmental sustainability goals.
The temple is constructed using Pink Bansi Paharpur stones sourced from the Bharatpur district of Rajasthan. With over 26,500 individual stones, each intricately interlocked with male and female joints and reinforced with copper pins and strips. The stones were initially cut and carved at Pindwara in Rajasthan using advanced CNC technology for precision then undergo a final finishing process by a team of approximately 1,500 artisans. Rigorous inspection by the National Institute of Rock Mechanics (NIRM) ensured the quality of each stone.
Situated in Zone 4, the temple is engineered to withstand seismic activities, ensuring the safety and longevity of this architectural masterpiece. The absence of steel does not compromise its ability to endure and thrive in a high-risk seismic zone.
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir’s massive raft concrete, spanning 6300 sq. meters and 1.5m in height, employs M35 grade plain cement concrete without reinforcement for enhanced durability. To combat high heat during curing, 98 individual pours, limited to 9m x 9m, were executed. Crushed ice, sourced daily from Lucknow, chiller plant, water sprinkler system, and optimal winter weather were utilized for temperature control. Innovative thermal curing, involving plywood, thermal insulation layers, and thermal curing paint, replaced conventional water curing. Continuous monitoring through thermal sensing probes ensured controlled curing. Overcoming challenges, the concrete raft was completed in four months, providing a robust foundation.
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, an extraordinary creation of seismic fortitude, unwavering foundation, and meticulous artistry. It emerges as a marvel that seamlessly fuses tradition with innovation. Towering proudly, bereft of steel yet resolute in stature, the temple becomes a living testament to India’s opulent cultural heritage, encapsulated in its intricate craftsmanship. Thus, it not only stands as a beacon of reverence but also bequeaths to posterity a legacy of admiration for the splendid craftsmanship crafted by its creators.