LIVE: The world is witnessing history, says PM Modi at Ayodhya

Live updates from Ayodhya

modi-ayodhya Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ayodhya

The groundbreaking ceremonies of the 'grand' Ram mandir in Ayodhya will commence today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the public function, the PMO confirmed. Prior to the function, the prime minister will take part in 'pooja' and 'darshan' at Hanumangarhi, a statement by the PMO said on Tuesday. He will unveil a plaque to mark the laying of foundation stone and also release a commemorative postage stamp on 'Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir', the statement said.

Tight security measures are in place. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath issued an appeal, asking only those invited for Wednesday's ceremony to come to Ayodhya. Among the 175 invited for the main ceremony are 135 sants belonging to numerous spiritual traditions. On the dais, there will be just five people—Prime Minister Narendra Modi, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, trust chief Nritya Gopaldas Maharaj, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and CM Adityanath.

The August 5 ceremony will mark the beginning of the Ram temple construction. A decades-long title suit over the site at Ayodhya was settled by Supreme Court last year.