In Graphics | The history of the temple town Ayodhya

Ayodhya is steeped in religious spirit as it nears the consecration of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple.

The temple has been decorated with "rich stocks" of flowers and special lights for the mega event. The new 51-inch idol of Ram Lalla, carved by Mysuru-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj, was placed in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple on Thursday afternoon.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in the middle of 11-day pre-inauguration rituals, will preside over the ceremony.

He will be joined by Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, state governor Anandiben Patel, and president of the temple trust Mahant Nritya Gopal Das.

Over 7,000 dignitaries, including cricketers and people from the entertainment and business industries, have been invited to attend the ceremony.

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Ayodhya is believed to be the birthplace of the Hindu deity Lord Ram.

Ahead of the grand consecration ceremony, we go back in history to bring you the many twists and turns of the temple town.

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