DHARAMSHALA: In a significant decision, the Congress-ruled state of Himachal Pradesh declared a full-day holiday on the occasion of the consecration of the Shri Ram Temple, catching many BJP leaders off guard. Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu not only announced the holiday but also urged residents to illuminate their homes for the Pran Pratistha ceremony.
During the inauguration of Sundar Path in Ram Mandir at Shimla , CM Sukhu stated that January 22 would be a full-day holiday in Himachal Pradesh. Additionally, he revealed plans for a 111-feet statue of Shri Ram, along with Hanuman Ji, to be installed in Jakhu, Shimla. The decision to install the statue at Jakhu temple will be finalized after consulting Hindu traditions and auspicious timings. This move follows a proposal by various Hindu organizations in Shimla to erect a 111-feet statue of Shri Ram, where already a 108-feet statue of Bajrangbali is situated at Jakhu site.