Prasad, a religious offering for devotees, is an intrinsic part of a special event in Hindu culture. For the grand consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, a Mahaprasad box was especially curated for the devotees. It contained Ram Diya, Akshat and Roli, besides traditional superfoods with health benefits. These Mahaprasad ingredients are rooted in Indian culture and the traditional medicine system.

What is the Mahaprasad for Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha?

According to reports, seven or eight components were included in the Mahaprasad box for the Ayodhya Ram Mandir consecration ceremony that was attended by the country’s bigwigs. Mawa Laddus, Ramdana Chikki, Jaggery Revdi, green cardamom and Tulsi Dal (leaves of the sacred Tulsi plant) are among the superfoods included in these boxes prepared by the Temple Trust. The other elements were worship-related.

The chosen Mahaprasad ingredients seemed in sync with the winter season as they offer multiple health benefits, including natural warmth to the body.

“Bhog and Prasad often include seasonal food items. This keeps the body healthy. Chikki, Til Rewari, small cardamom and Mawa Laddus included in Mahaprasad are all such food items which will keep you warm from within in this winter season. That means these are winter superfoods for your health,” explains Dr Aditi Sharma, Head of Nutrition and Dietetics, Manipal Hospital.

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As per the expert, these foods are also antioxidant-rich and help in keeping the body away from seasonal diseases and allergies. The calcium, protein and iron content found in these Mahaprasad items can also provide strength to the body, while their vitamins A and D content may be good for skin and eyes.

Healthy foods in Ram Mandir Mahaprasad

Know more about the 5 superfoods included in Pran Pratishtha Mahaprasad and learn about their benefits!

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1. Tulsi leaves

Tulsi dal, tulsi leaves or holy basil leaves are known to have medicinal properties for years. These are an important part of Hindu rituals, and are considered healthy to consume due to their vitamin, mineral, calcium and zinc content. Rich in anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties, tulsi protects the body from seasonal allergies and infections.

2. Green cardamom

Green cardamom, also known in India as chhoti elaichi, has a distinct taste and aroma. Legend says this little exotic spice has been used for centuries in rituals to ward off negative energy and invoke blessings. No wonder it found a place in the Ayodhya Ram Temple Prasad box. Cardamom is typically rich in antimicrobial properties, keeps the body free from bacteria and helps to stabilise blood sugar, blood pressure and oral health.

3. Ramdana Chikki (Ramdana or Amaranth chikki)

Amaranth or Amaranth seeds are also known as Rajgira seeds or Ramdana. By its very name, it translates into a royal grain! According to the US National Institutes of Health, Ramdana is eaten during fasting and is rich in vitamins, minerals and iron. Its fiber content helps to strengthen the body and improves gut health.

The fact that these little grains are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory features, helps to reduce swelling in the body. These can also help to control cholesterol levels. When these seeds are coupled with jaggery to make chikki, a sweet bar, these have a warming effect and protects the body from infectious diseases.

4. Mawa Laddoo

Traditional offerings in Hindu culture include dairy products. The most popular superfood that enhances the taste of sweets is Mawa, also called Khoya. Granulated khoya fulfills the deficiency of calcium and protein in the body. This not only strengthens the bones, but also protects the body from many problems. Its consumption reduces the increasing dryness of hair in winter and dead skin cells can also be removed.

Khoya is also rich in antioxidants and vitamin K which help to regulate blood pressure. Mawa laddoos also contain ghee or clarified butter that is widely known for its health benefits. This sweet delight can also be helpful for those wanting to gain weight and muscle.

5. Jaggery Revdi (Gud Revdi)

Revadis are yet another sweet offering that is widely available in the winter season. These are made using jaggery and sesame seeds, both of which are protective winter superfoods. Jaggery is good for the digestive system, while both sesame and jaggery can help to maintain hemoglobin levels. These small and crunchy sweets were included in the Ram Mandir Mahaprasad box. They also give consumers an energy boost.