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 sunlight onto the statue’s forehead for approximately 3 to 3.5 minutes starting at 12 noon. The scientists used a combination of mirrors and lenses to precisely direct the sunlight onto the statue’s forehead.

The sophisticated apparatus, commissioned by the temple trust, was devised by scientists from a leading government institution. Dr Pradeep Kumar Ramacharla, Scientist and Director at the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), Roorkee, explained the intricate workings of the optomechanical system. He detailed that the system consists of four mirrors and four lenses fitted inside the tilt mechanism and piping systems.

The technology directs the sun rays through mirrors and lenses to focus on the forehead of Shree Ram facing east. The development of the ‘Surya Tilak’ mechanism involved collaboration between scientists from CBRI, Roorkee, and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIAP), Bengaluru. Technical support from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics and the expertise of Optica, a Bengaluru-based company, further aided the project’s execution.

Dr Pradeep Chauhan, Scientist at the Central Building Research Institute, Roorkee, expressed confidence in the flawless execution of the ‘Surya Tilak’ ritual anointing the statue of Ram Lalla. Intricate arrangements involving 19 gears were implemented to ensure the timely occurrence of the ritual, all without relying on electricity or batteries. The Indian Institute of Astrophysics in Bengaluru devised a solution to reconcile the apparent disparity between the lunar and solar calendars and ensure the ‘Surya Tilak’ anointment.

The team from CSIR-CBRI and IIA Bengaluru, along with Optica, actively participated in the execution and installation process. The ‘Surya Tilak’ mechanism was explained in detail and showcased.