Ayodhya's Ram temple has been made to last over 1,000 yrs! See Details

PTC Web Desk: In a convergence of traditional Indian heritage architecture and cutting-edge scientific principles, the grand temple dedicated to Ram Lalla, the infant Lord Ram, in Ayodhya is poised to stand for over a thousand years! Led by Shri Nripendra Misra, the chairperson of the temple construction committee of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, Ayodhya, the construction of this iconic structure has seen contributions from top Indian scientists, incorporating even ISRO technologies.

Architectural Brilliance

The architectural design, rooted in the Nagar Shaily tradition of northern Indian temple designs, was executed by Chandrakant Sompura, a veteran with a family tradition spanning 15 generations in designing heritage temples. Describing the Ram Temple, Sompura envisions it as a rare and splendid creation, not only in India, but on a global scale.

Covering a vast area of 2.7 acres with a built-up area of approximately 57,000 square feet, the three-floor structure stands as a testament to meticulous planning and execution. Notably, no iron or steel has been utilised in the Ayodhya's Ram temple construction to ensure longevity, as the lifespan of iron is limited to 80-90 years.

Material Selection and Structure

The construction prioritises the use of top-quality granite, sandstone, and marble. Straying from conventional cement or lime mortar, the joints employ a lock and key mechanism with grooves and ridges. Dr Pradeep Kumar Ramancharla, Director of the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), Roorkee, says the structural design is earthquake-resistant, capable of withstanding seismic events with a return period of 2,500 years.

An intriguing challenge emerged during the analysis of the temple site's soil, which was sandy and unstable due to the nearby Sarayu River. To counter this, an innovative solution was implemented: the soil was excavated to a depth of 15 metre, replaced with engineered soil, and topped with a 1.5-metre-thick M-35 grade metal-free concrete raft. A plinth of 6.3 metre thick solid granite stone from southern India further fortified the foundation.

Temple Foundation and Construction Process

The foundation showcases a multi-layered approach, employing compacted layers to create a rock-like base. This involved laying 47 layered bases without the use of steel re-bars. The visible part of the temple features 'Bansi Paharpur' pink sandstone from Rajasthan, contributing to its aesthetic appeal. Meanwhile, the sanctum sanctorum boasts white Makrana marble, reminiscent of the material used in the construction of the Taj Mahal.

Contributions from Central Building Research Institute

CBRI, actively engaged in the project since early 2020, has played a pivotal role. Their involvement encompasses the structural design of the main temple, design of the 'Surya Tilak' mechanism, design vetting of the temple foundation, and structural health monitoring of the main temple. The chosen architectural model, preserving the Nagara style, underwent rigorous analysis to ensure both performance and architectural integrity.

Modern Technology Meets Heritage Architecture

Dr Sharda Srinivasan, an archaeologist specialising in heritage metals at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, emphasises the blend of traditional dry masonry methods with modern finite element analysis, sophisticated software tools, and adherence to 21st-century building codes. The temple, while rooted in heritage architecture, is also a product of contemporary engineering standards, ensuring its longevity.

Based on current knowledge and advancements in structural engineering, the Ram Temple is poised to endure for more than a thousand years. The extensive use of finite element analysis, cutting-edge software, and adherence to modern building codes have contributed to the temple's robustness. Despite the challenges posed by the sandy terrain, the construction of the Ram Lalla Temple stands as a testament to the seamless integration of tradition and technology, creating a cultural and architectural marvel that is expected to resonate for centuries to come.

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