Ayodhya, Jan 13 (NationPress) The festivities commemorating the first anniversary of Ram Lalla’s Pran Pratistha ceremony, which commenced on January 11, are in full swing with devotees and saints participating in numerous events such as rituals, prayers, and cultural activities.

The unprecedented influx of devotees has resulted in a significant boost in the city’s economic activity, positively impacting local traders and business owners.

A few local merchants shared their insights with IANS regarding this remarkable turnaround.

Pawan Kishore Gupta, a third-generation shopkeeper, stated to IANS that the number of visitors to Ayodhya has increased exponentially since the inauguration of the Ram Temple last year.

“On this first anniversary of Ram Mandir’s Pran Pratistha, the city is overflowing with devotees eager to catch a glimpse of Ram Lalla and receive his blessings,” he mentioned to IANS.

He noted that the surge in visitors has elevated economic activities, with many traders experiencing growth of over 70 percent.

“Previously, there was some unease among residents due to road expansions, but today, it’s the business community that is reaping the benefits,” he remarked.

State government estimates suggest that more than 300,000 visitors have been arriving in this temple town daily since last year, amounting to over 135 million visitors in just one year.

This influx has not only enhanced the city’s spiritual significance but has also stimulated economic growth in the surrounding regions.

Another trader, Ajay Kumar Singh, discussed the positive effects of the rush of devotees on local enterprises.

“In the past, shopkeepers like myself sold goods worth Rs 600-Rs 700, which has now escalated into thousands,” he explained.

Another local entrepreneur, who specializes in figurines of Hindu deities, highlighted the increase in trade volumes a year post the opening of the Ram Temple.

“Previously, if sales were around Rs 50,000, they have now doubled to over Rs 100,000 today. Customers can indulge in shopping until late at night. Numerous large companies have also entered the market, providing a diverse range of products,” he added.

The city’s transformation over the past year is evident from the growth in commercial spaces, including hotels and guesthouses. The number of hotels, restaurants, and guesthouses has surged in Ayodhya.

A government official noted that only a few years ago, the number of hotels and guesthouses was less than a dozen, but it has now increased to approximately 200.