Sri Rama Nama Stupa in Ramanarayanam
The Sri Rama Nama Stupa in Rama Narayanam, a votive stupa, stands as a prominent tower symbolizing the significance of Ramayana and the power encapsulated in the divine name of Sri Rama. It serves as a sacred repository for the divine name of Sri Rama and was inaugurated on March 17, 2020. The primary purpose of this stupa is to house the auspicious "Sri Rama Koti," a compilation of sacred names written by devoted followers.
As of the current date, the stupa proudly houses an impressive count of 23.5+ crore "Sri Rama" namas, fervently submitted by dedicated devotees. Within the spiritual campus, this stupa features enchanting and divine Kesava Nama deities intricately engraved on its walls. At its core, the stupa showcases the image of Sri Rama Pattabhisheka, meticulously engraved with perfect precision.
Tower of Unity
The Stupa serves as a symbol of unity within the community. People of all ages, castes, religions, genders, or any other classification can contribute by inscribing the divine names of Sri Rama and submitting them here. The only qualification necessary is a deep sense of devotion towards Sri Rama and a commitment to fostering harmonious living.
Significance of Sri Rama Nama
"ramo vigrahavan dharmaha" signifies that Sri Rama is the embodiment of Dharma, serving as the perfect role model for humanity. It is a sacred tradition in this divine land of Bharath for people to write the name of Sri Rama at least one crore times in their lifetime. The belief is that the mere utterance of Rama's name instills strength and vitality in humanity.
The practice of inscribing Sri Rama's name is considered auspicious, with the conviction that it not only positively influences the individual but also extends its impact to their family and the entire society.
According to experts, when individuals contribute to Sri Rama Koti, submitting one crore names, the positivity emanates across a radius of 1 km from the Stupa. Currently, the stupa in the Ramanarayanam campus proudly hosts 23.5+ crore of Sri Rama Namas, reflecting the collective devotion and positive energy infused into the surroundings.
When and how can we submit?
The stupa is open to the public on Ekadasi day following Sarannavaratri (Dasara) and Dasami day following Vasantha Navarathri (Sri Rama Navami). Devotees who have completed writing the Sri Rama Koti can approach the members of Rama Narayanam and visit on any day convenient for them. In case a devotee is unable to visit for any reason, they can post their contributions to Ramanaraynam. The management will then ceremoniously offer the "Sri Rama Koti" into the Rama Stupa amid Vedic chanting by the in-house Vedic Scholars and Students.
What is a stupa?
A Stupa is a monument that symbolizes deep veneration towards a person or a cause. Typically, it enshrines sacred relics and artifacts associated with a significant individual or purpose. While the concept of Stupa gained widespread recognition during the peak of Buddhism, its presence extends far beyond that era, reaching back into ancient Vedic traditions where mentions of Stupas can be found in various scriptures.
Stupas serve diverse purposes, and five major categories encompass their various functions:
1. Relic Stupa: This type contains the physical remains of revered individuals and their disciples.
2. Object Stupa: These Stupas house objects that once belonged to esteemed individuals and their disciples.
3. Commemorative Stupa: Constructed in memory of specific events or milestones in the lives of revered individuals and their disciples.
4. Symbolic Stupa: Built to propagate and disseminate the teachings of a particular religion or individual.
5. Votive Stupa: These Stupas are constructed for votive, commemorative, or offering purposes, signifying devotion and reverence.