AYODHYA, Nov. 21 -- Rituals for the flag-hoisting ceremony at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya on November 25 began on Thursday with a 'kalash yatra' in the temple town and a special prayer service on the banks of river Saryu. The procession set off during 'amrit kaal' and 'sarvarth siddhi yog'. A total of 551 women participated in the 'kalash yatra' while 151 Vedic students led the procession, said temple trust member Anil Mishra. As a 'jajmaan' of the ritual, Mishra performed the 'prayaschit poojan' for the flag-hoisting ceremony. ]The 'yatra' reached the Ram Mandir with participants carrying water filled in 'kalash' from Saryu. "The rituals, which started from Thursday, will reach their peak on November 25, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the flag on the 191-ft-high spire of the temple," he said. "This 'kalash yatra', which began on the auspicious occasion of 'margashirsha amavasya', filled the city with a festive and spiritual atmosphere. It will conclude on November 25 during Vivah Panchami," he added. A series of religious and cultural programmes will be organised in Ayodhya from November 23 to 25, including folk dances, musical performances, special prayers at temples and display of cultural tableaux. Ayodhya is being decorated with attractive lighting, colourful flower decorations and traditional rangolis. "The echo of Ram dhun, mantra chanting and victory slogans in the city's lanes are making the atmosphere even more sacred," said Ayodhya mayor Girish Pati Tripathi. Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai said: "This festival is going to become a wonderful symbol of Indian culture, tradition and unity." Prominent seers, scholars, public representatives, social workers and lakhs of devotees from across the country have been invited for the event....