The Indian army conducted a limited, controlled and purposeful operation during Operation Sindoor by following Lord Rama's teaching of not abandoning righteousness even in war, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said here on Wednesday.

"Just as Lord Rama taught us all the importance of not abandoning righteousness even in war, our army also conducted a limited, controlled and purposeful operation during Operation Sindoor," Rajnath said in his address at the second anniversary celebrations of the consecration ceremony of Lord Ramlala at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple.

On the auspicious occasion, Rajnath first offered prayers at Hanuman Garhi and then had darshan of Lord Ramlala at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. Afterwards, amidst chanting of mantras, he installed the religious flag on the spire of the Maa Annapurna Temple located within the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi complex.

In his address, the Defence Minister mentioned Operation Sindoor.

"The objective of Operation Sindoor was to teach the terrorists a lesson, and we taught them that lesson by entering their stronghold," he said.

The visibly emotional Defence Minister said, "Lord, what more could I ask for today? It feels as if I have received everything I ever wanted in life. Lord Raghuvendra himself chose me for this day, which is why I am getting this opportunity today."

He said it was the most fortunate day of his life.

"Two years ago today, when Lord Rama was re-established here, it was a historic moment of pride for all Indians. Today, Lord Rama is gracing not only India but the entire world with his glory," said Rajnath.

He said every street and intersection of Ayodhya has become imbued with the spirit of Rama. "Kanak Bhavan, Dashrath Mahal, Hanuman Garhi - the entire Ayodhya is shining brightly in the lap of Mother Sarayu. This radiance is not limited to the Ayodhya region alone, but the entire Awadh and India are immersed in the spirit of Rama today."

He described the day as glorious and reminded everyone that it is the same land that endured unbearable sacrifices and insults for Lord Rama for years, but never allowed its faith to waver.

Rajnath called the consecration of Lord Rama in Ayodhya the consecration of India's spiritual power. He said, "We are all extremely fortunate compared to many previous generations that we witnessed that moment with our own eyes.

He described the Ram Temple movement as the world's grandest narrative, saying that this movement is unique in terms of both geography and time. He said that from India to countries like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand, where people from communities other than Hindus also consider themselves connected to Lord Rama, this was a movement of all those who believe in Rama.

Such a movement, sustained by a long, non-violent struggle of 500 years, is unparalleled in history, he remarked.

He said that not only has the Shri Ram Temple been built in Ayodhya, but with the construction of an airport, rail network, and road connectivity, Ayodhya is creating new dimensions of development in all sectors, including industry and trade.

"This wave of development is not limited to Ayodhya alone, but is reaching the entire Awadh province and every corner of the country," he said.

Rajnath praised and congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for their able leadership and successful efforts in this journey of development under the double-engine government.

He also mentioned that just as a magnificent temple of Lord Rama stands in Ayodhya Dham, a grand temple is also being constructed at Punauradham, the birthplace of Mother Janaki. Concluding his address, he prayed, "May this flag of Sanatan Dharma continue to fly as long as the moon and the sun exist in the sky. May Lord Rama guide us all on the path of duty."