(Image source from: x.com/ShriRamTeerth)
Following the impressive construction of the Ram Temple, Ayodhya is soon to introduce another remarkable attraction that combines faith, art, and tourism - the first wax museum in the world focused on the Ramayana. The completed museum will be opened by Uttar Pradesh's Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during the ninth Deepotsav festivities, as reported by ANI. Covering an area of 9,850 square feet and built for Rs 6 crore, the museum aims to take visitors back to the Treta Yuga, the time when the Ramayana takes place. It is designed to serve as a place of worship as well as a major tourist destination, providing a unique experience that mixes mythology, modern technology, and art. The Ayodhya Municipal Corporation is partnering in its operation, with 12% of the museum's earnings going towards the city's progress.
Inside the museum, there are 50 realistic wax figures of important characters from the Ramayana such as Lord Ram, Mata Sita, Lakshman, Bharat, Hanuman, Ravana, and Vibhishan. Each statue is created with great detail - from their clothes and facial expressions to their poses and lighting - aiming to capture the spirit of the epic. Visitors are welcomed at the entrance by a grand statue of Lord Ganesha, representing good beginnings before entering the Ramayana-themed area. The building is designed in a traditional South Indian style and has two floors that bring Ramayana scenes to life.
Ground Floor: Displays Lord Ram's childhood, Sita's swayamvar, and key events from young Ram Lalla's life. There’s a special spot next to the child Ram statue for guests to take memorable selfies.
First Floor: Illustrates the years of exile, the burning of Lanka, and the epic battle between Ram and Ravana. Engaging 3D light displays highlight important moments like Sita’s kidnapping and Hanuman setting Lanka on fire, with lighting that resembles real flames.
The overall experience is enhanced by a soothing sandalwood scent, calming Ram bhajans, and the ongoing chant of "Ram Tarak Mantra," which contributes to a deeply engaging spiritual experience. The museum has been created by Sunil Wax Museum, a company from Kerala known for its wax museums featuring celebrities in Lonavala and Thiruvananthapuram. The founder, Sunil, states that this project is different from their previous ones – a blend of culture and devotion where "each figure is crafted so accurately that visitors will feel as if they have entered the Treta Yuga."
The area outside the museum has been designed with tourists in mind. Amenities include:
A specific parking section
Snack areas and a small coffee shop
A family-friendly entertainment zone
A well-planned food court offering both South Indian and North Indian cuisines, showcasing Ayodhya's cultural variety.
Safety features have also been put in place with comprehensive security measures, round-the-clock CCTV monitoring, fire safety equipment, and four emergency exits. The air-conditioned interiors are kept at a comfortable temperature of 22°C.
