The Science behind the ‘Surya Tilak’ Ceremony at Ayodhya’s Ram Temple

A team of ten esteemed Indian scientists stationed at the Ram Mandir ensured the success of an auspicious event on Ram Navami. Using cutting-edge scientific expertise, they directed a 5.8 centimetre beam of light onto the statue’s forehead for approximately 3 to 3.5 minutes starting at 12 noon. This feat was achieved using a combination of mirrors and lenses, comprising a sophisticated apparatus devised by scientists from a leading government institution.

The optomechanical system, explained by Dr. Pradeep Kumar Ramacharla, consists of four mirrors and four lenses fitted inside a tilt mechanism and piping systems. This system is carefully engineered to precisely focus the sun’s rays on the forehead of the deity, with the tilt mechanism adjusting the direction of the sun rays towards the north. Collaboration between scientists from CBRI, Roorkee, and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIAP), Bengaluru, played a crucial role in the development of this ‘Surya Tilak’ mechanism.

External technical support and manufacturing expertise were also provided to ensure the successful execution of the project. Dr. Pradeep Chauhan expressed confidence in the flawless anointing of the statue of Ram Lalla through this mechanism. To ensure the timely occurrence of this ritual, intricate arrangements involving 19 gears were made, without relying on electricity, batteries, or iron-based components.

India’s premier institution in the field of astronomy, the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in Bengaluru, devised a solution to reconcile the lunar and solar calendars to achieve this feat. The team involved in this project included members from CSIR-CBRI and IIA Bangalore, as well as collaborators from Optica, a Bengaluru-based company. Prof. R. Pradeep Kumar, Director of CSIR-CBRI, provided guidance for the project, while Dr. Annapurni S., Director of IIA, and Mr. Rajinder Kotaria, Managing Director of Optica, along with their teams, played active roles in this initiative.

While similar ‘Surya Tilak’ mechanisms exist in some Jain temples and at the Sun Temple at Konark, this innovative approach distinguishes itself through its engineering and scientific precision.