CNN-News18, India’s premier English news channel, has announced an unprecedented 100-hour non-stop programming event, titled ‘Ram Mandir for India,’ in anticipation of the historic Ram Temple inauguration.
Top anchors Anand Narasimhan and Shivani Gupta will host live shows from Ayodhya, featuring engaging discussions with experts, historians, and religious leaders. Specially designed sets will enhance the presentation of programs during this significant celebration, the channel said in a press release.
The continuous 100-hour programming kicks off on January 19 and concludes on the night of January 22, offering comprehensive coverage of every aspect of the historic Ram Mandir inauguration.
Exclusive interviews with spiritual leaders like Sadhguru, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, and Swami Rambhadracharya, along with renowned musicians Jubin Nautiyal and Kailash Kher, promise unique insights. Archaeologist K K Muhammed, part of the Ayodhya excavation team, will also share his perspective.
The ‘Ram Mandir for India’ coverage includes research-backed explainers on the Ram Temple’s history and reports on Ayodhya’s ongoing development.
Upcoming ceremonies include Ram Lalla’s ‘Shobha Yatra,’ a sacred procession leading to the inauguration. Subsequent days feature various pujas, including the ‘Nav Grah Shanti Hawan’ for planetary harmony. On January 20th, the temple’s sanctum sanctorum undergoes ceremonial washing with water from the Sarayu River, followed by meticulous cleaning of Ram Lalla’s throne. The grand finale on January 22nd will witness the worship and consecration of Ram Lalla.
Notable attendees include Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Baba Ramdev, cricketers Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli, industrialists Mukesh Ambani and Ratan Tata, and actors Rajinikanth, Arun Govil, and Deepika Chikhalia.
CNN-News18 initiated its mega coverage on January 15th, with on-ground reporters capturing stories to encapsulate the essence of this historic event, setting the stage for the upcoming marathon of special coverage.
Zakka Jacob, Managing Editor of CNN-News18, highlighted that ‘Ram Mandir for India’ transcends event coverage, inviting active participation in India’s cultural and religious legacy. The channel is dedicated to delivering comprehensive coverage, ensuring an unparalleled viewer experience.
Smriti Mehra, CEO of the English and Business News Cluster at Network18, emphasized the commitment to a distinguished and all-encompassing narrative for the historic Ram Mandir inauguration. The network anticipates a significant surge in viewership due to the event’s profound significance, promising an engaging, comprehensive, and unmatched viewing experience.