The inauguration of the Ram Mandir is perhaps the most consequential event in the history of independent India — the rebuilding of the temple is the culmination of a 500-year-old struggle over the reclamation of the land of Shri Ram’s birthplace. To mark the occasion, the central government had declared a half-day holiday for all institutions, and several state governments had followed suit. Corporate India decided it wouldn’t be left behind, and has pulled out all stops to mark the momentous occasion. Here’s how corporate India celebrated the construction of the historic Ram Mandir.
Reliance, other companies announce holidays
India’s most valuable company, Reliance, had declared a holiday for employees across all its offices in the country today. In addition, Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani had decked up his residence, Antilla, with slogans of Jai Shri Ram.
Stock markets shut
The stock markets were also shut for the occasion. The BSE and NSE had instead opened on Saturday, and Monday had been declared a holiday to enable traders and investors to watch the ceremony.
Goa casinos decide to remain closed
Many businesses across the country decided to down their shutters to honour the occasion. Goa casinos decided to remain closed for the inauguration of the Ram Mandir. “When everyone is keeping their businesses closed and holidays have been declared to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime event, why should we not do it,” a representatives of the Goa casinos said.
Offices and business placed decked up
All across the country, many offices decked up for the occasion. This office in Bengaluru had an LED display which said “Jai Shri Ram”.
TV anchors take off shoes while talking about Ram Mandir
While many businesses gave time off, others had no choice but to show up at work. There were reports of several news anchors taking off their shoes while reporting on the Ram Mandir.
Live screenings
Other businesses chose to use their reach to spread the message of Shri Ram. PVR Inox broadcast the inauguration ceremony live in 160 cinemas across 70 cities in the country.
Discount codes and offers
Brands also used the occasion to promote their offerings. Paytm was offering a 100% cashback on bus tickets booked to Ayodhya, while Cleartrip was offering 1008 free flight tickets to Ayodhya.
Launch of new products
Brands also marked the occasion with new product lines. Kalyan Jewelers came out with a created a jewelry collection ‘Nimah’ with “divine inspiration” that boasts existing temple-style motifs and iconography with the imagery of Lord Ram in its designs.
Creatives
And brands on social media chose to mark the moment with creatives cerebrating the inauguration of the temple. Amul put its iconic Amul girl in front of the Ram Mandir, and called it a “temple of a billion hopes”.
