The growing global demand for models of the Ram Mandir currently being constructed in Ayodhya represents an encouraging opportunity for artisans and entrepreneurs in the city. According to reports, workshops producing miniature replicas of the iconic temple have recently received large overseas orders, signifying the strong pilgrimage and religious tourism market abroad wishing to commemorate the project.
While domestic sales of Mandir models have provided steady local income for some time, the latest foreign interest suggests there is significant untapped market potential if adequate export promotion is carried out. Encouraging international buyers through dedicated e-commerce portals, participation in global cultural expos, and cultural diplomacy efforts could help further scale revenues and jobs in this skilled handicraft sector.
So far, a prominent Ayodhya-based manufacturer has received an order from America for an especially large 8×4.5 foot model priced at approximately Rs. 1 lakh. Such premium, customized exports demonstrate the willingness of diaspora and other global audiences to pay for high-quality commemorative ware that preserves traditional Indian architectural heritage and religious narratives. With focused branding and segmentation, specialized museum-size replicas could evolve into a profitable artisanal export line on par with popular devotional goods.
On the financial front, sustained foreign interest in Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir models may usher a new stream of valuable hard currency inflows. As per estimates, even modest growth to an annual export revenue of 5-10 crore rupees could make a meaningful economic contribution while supporting dozens of local artisan families dependent on this specialized skill industry. Like other celebrated religious pilgrimage centers worldwide, Ayodhya is well-positioned to derive sustained tourism dividends by leveraging its cultural assets and promoting necessary soft infrastructure upgrades.
With proactive government support through export market development initiatives, industry associations and craft clusters, Ayodhyan miniatures have the chance to gain global popularity on par with iconic brands from Fatehpur Sikri or Blue Pottery of Jaipur. E-marketplaces, direct dealer networks in religious communities overseas, and leveraging Indian diplomatic missions are avenues that deserve focused efforts to realize this sector’s potential. As Ram Janmabhoomi development works progress in full swing, now is an opportune time for stakeholders to initiate concrete steps that could earn Ayodhya well-deserved recognition and prosperity on the world map.
Forward-thinking industry and government coordination thus seems needed to strengthen supportive policies, financing facilities and technical know-how transfers beneficial for optimally tapping the overseas opportunity unfolding.
