Ayodhya Overtakes Mecca, Vatican in Footfall

One Year after Bhagwan Ram Lalla’s Pran Pratishta, the holy town holds out hope to be fulcrum of Hindu renaissance. Pummy Pandita Bhagwan Ram’s Pran Pratishta in January 2024 at his very birthplace in Ayodhya marked a new chapter in cultural and spiritual journey of Bharat. Since the construction of magnificent temple as abode of Ram Lalla, Ayodhya has undergone a transformation that devout Hindus connect to in spiritual terms and practicing faith. There’s no denying that Ayodhya, once a neglected, haunted and disconnected small town, is not any of these anymore. It’s bustling with devout people converging to Ayodhya by road, airways and superfast trains’ network. Infrastructure in Ayodhya has also undergone a sea change with roads, waterways and huge tourism circuit with hospitality points coming up in last one year. Footfall in Ayodhya as per estimates has crossed that of Vatican (6.7 Mn in 2023) and Mecca (1.83 Mn in 2024) many times over. As per Hindu calendar, January 11, 2025 marks first anniversary of Prana Pratishtha of Bhagwan Ram Lalla and the day would be celebrated as “Pratishtha Dwadashi” at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya. A clutch of religious rites, devotional recitations, cultural acts and spiritual talks will be performed at the sanctum sanctorum and the entire Ayodhya Dham. Over three crore people are expected to witness the grand celebrations of Shri Ram’s Pran Pratishtha anniversary. Spiritual ceremonies will be held at Yajna Mandap, a dedicated location within the Mandir premises at break of dawn to kick off the celebrations. The Agnihotra ceremony involving lighting of fire will take place during 8 am – 11 am and again between 2 pm to 5 pm. This age-old Vedic practice is known for spiritual and cleansing and is carried out using mantras from Sukla Yajurveda. In addition to purifying the area, the ceremony will aid in fostering a spiritually uplifting atmosphere for the day’s activities. Highlights of the Day: Shri Ram’s Prasad, that’s regarded as a celestial blessing, will be offered all day long to devotees from early morning hours reflecting Bhagwan Ram’s grace. A Year of Record-breaking Footfall Shri Ram Lalla’s Pran Pratishtha has turned Ayodhya into a popular pilgrimage centre. An unprecedented 15 million pilgrims are estimated to have visited Shri Ram Mandir to seek the blessings of Shri Ram Lalla. Temple’s tremendous appeal was highlighted by daily footfall exceeding two lakh people daily during peak seasons like Ram Navami and Deepawali. Due to this massive influx of visitors, Ayodhya is now on par with Varanasi and Tirupati as one of India’s most popular pilgrimage destinations and overtaken both Mecca and Vatican, the two religious centres for faithful Muslims and catholic Christians respectively. Wider road networks, better train connectivity and recently opened Ayodhya International Airport have contributed to the boom in tourism. These advancements have made it easier for pilgrims from all over Bharat and the world to travel to Ayodhya. Economic Windfall Ayodhya has experienced exceptional economic growth due to constant influx of devotees. As per local authorities, the city’s yearly income from tourism-related activities has more than doubled hitting almost ₹4000 crore (approximately half a billion US dollars) in the most recent year – the key contributors included pilgrims’ arrival that has brought in about ₹15,000 crore ($1.8 billion) in tourism-related income. Occupancy rates at local establishments, such as restaurants, motels and guesthouses have increased significantly, surpassing 90 per cent during busy times. Infrastructure Development Realizing Ayodhya’s potential to into a world hub of spirituality, Uttar Pradesh state and Bharat’s central governments has made significant infrastructure investments: Spiritual and Cultural Renaissance Ram Lalla’s return to his abode and birthplace has ignited a cultural revival in Ayodhya. The city is now a thriving centre of faith based activity thanks to regular kirtans, bhajans and spiritual talks. To raise awareness of Shri Ram’s teachings, temple administration has planned a number of events that draw both young people and academics. Shri Ram Lalla’s return to Ayodhya also represents a cultural revival. It has inspired a generation to reconnect with their heritage and rekindled interest in Bharat’s legendary stories. The temple’s exquisite carvings and imposing construction serve as a tribute to the magnificence of traditional Indian craftsmanship. In addition to revitalising millions of people’s spiritual ties, Shri Ram Lalla’s Pran Pratishtha has transformed Ayodhya into a centre for both cultural and economic renaissance. Ayodhya is a living example of transformational power of Hindu faith as the city continues to change, striking a balance between its rich legacy and contemporary goals. While the first year of Shri Ram’s homecoming is significant, this holy place is expected to make even more waves in years to come. (Author is head of operations at Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies, a non-partisan think tank based in New Delhi)Ayodhya Overtakes Mecca, Vatican in Footfall

Guest Column Hindus

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A Civilizational War Won On Hindu Terms

Arun Anand The struggle for construction of Ram temple at Ayodhya lasted for about 500 years. It commenced immediately after demolition of the Ram temple by invader Babur’s forces. For Bharatiya society, Islamist Babur represented and practised a set of values that didn’t believe in co-existence. In contrast, Lord Rama personified civilizational values that reflected Hindus belief in ‘Vasudheiv Kutumbakam’ (the whole world is one family). The struggle for building of RamTemple at Ayodhya was a civilizational war between these two different sets of values. How Hindus fought this war and won despite all odds is a breath taking story that the world needs to know. This story has precisely been narrated in my book, “Ramjanmabhoomi: How Hindus won 500 years long civilizational war”. It’s a Suruchi Prakashan publication. This story is not about merely a temple or God. It’s more about the victory of ‘Dharma’ that is the soul of Hindu civilization and Bharat. This book encapsulates the protracted struggle as well as discusses global impact of the story of Lord Rama and the values he represented and practised. The book has used ancient scriptures, archaeological records, British colonial era and legal documents to take the readers on an epic journey that starts with birth of Lord Rama and ends with ‘pran prathista’ of Ram Lalla at his birth place in Ayodhya on January 22 this year. The book deals with key questions that have been posed on historicity of Lord Rama’s existence. It also brings to readers accounts of foreign travellers and global impact of Lord Rama’s story through Ramayana and Ramcharit-manas, the two books that have been translated into almost every language. Decades of my field experience as a hard core news professional across media platforms and reading between the lines has come handy in piecing together this exciting story of Lord Rama who’s revered by about 1.5 billion Hindus living across continents. (Arun Anand is a journalist based in New Delhi. He has worked at editorial positions in leading dailies and broadcast including The Statesman Dainik Jagran Midday IANS and TV Today. The writer is an author and columnist and has written several books)

Hindus Judiciary Policy

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THE BHOJSHALA

Located within the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh, India, Bhojshala stands as an ancient Hindu institution devoted to Devi Vagdevi (Saraswati). In recent times, it has become the center of heated debate, with the Archaeological Survey of India conducting a thorough scientific survey of the site. Bhojshala’s significance lies in its multitude of layers, which encompass historical, theological, and cultural dimensions. It stands as a profound exemplar, showcasing the intricate intersections between historical legacy and Bharat’s contemporary faith-based and nationalistic foundations. Introduction Bhojshala stands as a poignant symbol of India’s rich tapestry of religious and cultural heritage. Established in the 11th century by the renowned Raja Bhoja of the Paramara dynasty, it was envisioned as a bastion of Sanskrit learning and Vedic wisdom, epitomising the intellectual zenith of medieval India. However, in the 13th century, the arrival of the Delhi Sultanate, led by the Islamic invader Alauddin Khilji, marked a dark chapter in Bhojshala’s history. The esteemed center of knowledge underwent significant destruction, partly transforming into the Kamal Maula Mosque, an Islamic structure. This event profoundly shaped the religious and cultural landscape of the region. Today, Bhojshala finds itself embroiled in a contentious altercation between Hindu and Muslim communities, each vying for religious rights and laying claim to the site’s historical significance. The annual Hindu festival of Basant Panchami often becomes a flashpoint, with tensions escalating as Muslim groups assert their right to worship at the revered location. Particularly volatile situations arise when Basant Panchami coincides with a Friday, frequently resulting in clashes. Amidst this turmoil, the Archaeological Survey of India, which is currently conducting a comprehensive survey of this heritage site. Yet, as Bhojshala remains a focal point of debate, it represents the broader dynamics of demolition of cultural heritage in India. Historical Background Bhojshala offers a captivating glimpse into India’s opulent medieval era, epitomised by the reign of Raja Bhoja, a luminary among the educated monarchs of the Paramara dynasty. Celebrated for his patronage of the arts, literature, and architecture, Raja Bhoja established Bhojshala as a prestigious center of learning, dedicated to the goddess of wisdom, Saraswati. It flourished as a vibrant hub where scholars and students from diverse backgrounds converged to delve into the study of Sanskrit and the Vedas, leaving an indelible mark on the intellectual and social fabric of the time. However, Bhojshala underwent a significant transformation with the advent of Islamic invaders in the region. During the 13th century, Alauddin Khilji’s expansion into the Indian subcontinent precipitated a notable decline in Bhojshala’s prominence and identity. Once revered for its educational and religious significance, the site was partially repurposed into a mosque, known as the Kamal Maula Mosque. This era marked the onset of a complex stratification of cultural and religious identities, as reflected in the alteration of Bhojshala’s architecture and spiritual essence. The architectural remnants of Bhojshala today bear witness to its storied past. Its design elements echo the Hindu architectural styles of its inception, while Islamic motifs were incorporated during its conversion into a mosque. This amalgamation serves as a poignant symbol of the enduring and far-reaching impact of history and culture on the Indian subcontinent. Bhojshala’s historical significance as a center of learning and religious devotion serves as a poignant testament to Bharat’s cultural richness and the enduring legacy of its ancient civilisation. The ongoing struggle over worship rights at Bhojshala underscores the complex interplay between contemporary religious identities and historical legacies, providing a compelling illustration of the intricate dynamics between history, religion, and politics in shaping the destiny of cultural treasures. Hindu Struggle for Bhojshala The battle to reclaim and safeguard Bhojshala stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Hindus, a struggle ignited in 1305 when the Islamic invader Alauddin Khilji besieged Malwa in present-day Madhya Pradesh. This brutal onslaught ravaged numerous revered Hindu institutions, including Bhojshala. Yet, in the face of adversity, the courageous acharyas (educators) and students stood unwavering, engaging in fierce combat. When 1200 esteemed scholars were presented with the dire ultimatum of conversion or death, their steadfast refusal to abandon their Sanatan Dharma in favour of Islam led to their brutal massacre, their bodies desecrated within the sacred precincts of Bhojshala. The aggression did not cease there. In 1401, under the guise of empire-building, Dilawar Khaw Ghori audaciously attempted to convert Vijay Mandir (Surya Martand Temple), now known as Lat Masjid, and sections of Saraswati Mandir Bhojshala into Islamic structures. This sacrilegious endeavour was further pursued in 1514 by Mehmud Shah Khilji II, who sought to obliterate Bhojshala and eradicate its Hindu legacy by transforming it into a mosque. The tomb of Kamal Maulana (who died in 1310) was erected 204 years posthumously as part of a sinister plot to usurp the Saraswati Temple Bhojshala.Even the British colonialists played a role in this cultural plunder. In 1902, Lord Curzon dispatched the revered statue of Maa Vagdevi to England, a priceless relic of our heritage now confined to the London Museum. In the modern era, the state administration not only turned a deaf ear to cries for justice but actively opposed efforts to liberate Bhojshala and restore the statue of Mata Vagdevi. In a blatant act of suppression, 273 activists were detained in 1996. In May 1997, then-Chief Minister Digvijay Singh controversially issued a decree permitting the performance of Namaz within Bhojshala’s sacred precincts every Friday, sparking widespread democratic protests and demonstrations by the Hindu community. This served as a testament to their unwavering resolve to defend their cultural and religious sanctity. The struggle for Bhojshala transcends mere territorial disputes; it embodies a fervent crusade to revive an ancient bastion of knowledge, science, art, culture, and spirituality. It symbolises the broader battle to reclaim countless Indian and Hindu institutions still unlawfully encroached upon. This is a clarion call to resist cultural erasure and stand steadfast against forces seeking to diminish our rich heritage. Government and Legal Interventions In 1904, recognising the rich historical legacy and illustrious past of Bhojshala, the imperialist British administration granted it

Education Hindus

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Dr Hedgewar: Rare Gem, True Leader & Visionary

Dr. Aniket Pingley Every time I visit Reshim Bagh Karyalaya of Rashtriya Swayasevak Sangh in Nagpur, I pay my tributes at the Smriti Mandir. Firmly nestled, there is a statue of Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, carved in black stone, depicting a sentinel of this great nation of Hindus. In his chiselled form, ‘Doctor ji’ as he’s popular, appears calm and resolute, watching over the swayamsevaks who are expanding the work of RSS in every realm possible. To say that the statue stands as a symbol of inspiration is an understatement, as is saying that the man was an institution. When man first landed on the moon, the whole world believed that it was a giant leap for mankind. Dr. Hedgewar also took one such giant leap for mankind, albeit a few decades earlier, when he founded the RSS. But unlike many visionaries, he put everything into action through ‘Shakhas’, basic units of Sangh and created a universal roadmap for ‘Vyakti-Nirmaan’ (personality development) that would diligently serve not only Bharat but humanity transcending borders. More than a dozen biographies of Dr. Hedgewar have been written thus far; perhaps the most remarkable one is in Marathi by Shri Nana Palkar, titled ‘Dr. Hedgewar Charitra‘. Shri Palkar, writer and poet himself was also a lifelong pracharak of RSS. Dr. Anil Nene recently translated his book into English under the title ‘Man of the Millennia: Dr. Hedgewar.’ It was released on March 2, 2024. Almost a century since RSS inception, its key figures remain the most under-researched and bordering on enigmatic, but amply vilified, mostly due to a lack of due diligence that often stems from malicious intent. For the English-dominated intellectual space in metropolitan regions of India and the global audience, ‘Man of the Millennia: Dr. Hedgewar’ is a ‘go to’ book as it was originally authored by a Pracharak who not only had opportunities to meet Dr. Hedgewar personally but also internalized the vision-in-action laid down by the fountainhead of the RSS. The book takes us through many notable incidents in Dr. Hedgewar’s life. Since his childhood, the signs of a freedom fighter, a revolutionary and a leader have been evident. From refusing to celebrate Queen Victoria’s birthday in school to raising slogans of Vande Mataram which eventually led to his rustication from school, Dr. Hedgewar’s moral compass was palpable. He went to Kolkata for higher studies. With revolutionary moorings, he played an active role in movement of fellow revolutionaries in Bengal and assisted with supplying them ammunition. To readers, it may come as a shock that before founding the RSS in 1925, Dr. Hedgewar was an active member of Indian National Congress! His speeches against colonial rule as a grassroots’ organizer of Congress led to British charging him with sedition and imprisoning him for almost a year in 1921. When he was released from jail, he was not only met with a rousing welcome from the Congress cadre, but senior leaders like Motilal Nehru felicitated him in a public gathering. Dr. Hedgewar was imprisoned second time for leading ‘Jungle Satyagraha’ during Civil Disobedience Movement in 1930. Dr Hedgewar truly believed in collaboration without any consideration for recognition. Not just with Congress and Anushilan Samiti, he aworked closely with a spectrum of leaders like Dr B.S. Moonje, Shri Babarao Savarkar, followers of Shri Lokmanya Tilak, who also had revolutionary tendencies but deep rootedness in the cultural and civilizational position of Bharat. There must be no doubt that Dr. Hedgewar not only believed in an independent and self-reliant Bharat but made solid contributions to freedom struggle. Through all learning of working at grassroots with people holding divergent view points and methodologies, Dr. Hedgewar also experienced that sporadic passion among people and a sentimental up-tick in emotions for the freedom struggle would fade away quickly. He also saw that Hindus were divided due to narrow considerations of language, caste, region, etc. He realized that being disciplined and organized is fundamental to having lasting conviction for a unified nation. This led him to change gears and steadfastly focus organizing Hindus via the instrument of a ‘Shakha’. Now, in its 100th year since inception, the RSS has expanded to sphere of national life. Dr. Hedgewar’s genius lies in selflessness. He did not create anything for himself. Instead, through genuine affection and razor sharp focus on the goal, the world’s largest brotherhood of volunteers stands before humanity ever ready to do the needful without personal considerations. Dr. Hedgewar is a legend in his own league who continues to live on through the generations of swayamsevaks he inspires. A lot of people talk, some walk the talk, very few walk more than they talk and the rarest of the rare create a roadmap for others to walk. Dr. Hedgewar is that rare gem—a true pathfinder who once walked alone, leaving footprints in Bharat’s history. (Author is an accomplished computer scientist, educator, and holds expertise in media content strategy)

Education Hindus Leadership World

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Ayodhya Unifies Hindus World Over!

For hoi polloi, Bhagwan Ram embodies an ideal leader to emulate. Ram mandir attracts people from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds Ayodhya, an ancient city in Uttar Pradesh, Bharat, has been in focus of religious and political discourse due to Babri structure constructed by Mughal invader Babar over the site of Ram Janmabhoomi, birthplace of Bhagwan Ram, a revered Hindu deity. After years of legal battles and societal tensions, the landmark verdict by Supreme Court of India finally handed over the Ram Janmabhoomi to Hindus and allotted separate land to Muslims, paving the way for the construction of a grand Ram Mandir (temple). This monumental decision has not only brought a sense of closure to a longstanding issue but served as a unifying force for Hindus across the globe. The construction of Ram Mandir has arisen as an illustration of unity among Hindus, transcending regional and cultural boundaries. Devotees from all corners of Bharat as well as globe representing diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds have come together to contribute to construction of the grand temple viewing it as a sacred endeavour that reaffirms their faith and heritage. Ram Mandir is one of the most sacred places in Bharat. Every day, 200,000 devotees have begun to flock Ayodhya to worship Bhagwan Ram Lalla following ‘pran pratishta’ on January 22 this year. From southern sun-soaked states, this holy place strengthens the already strong bond among people of the Bharat in a spiritual harmony. This huge number of devotees also marks a big change in Ayodhya’s growth and devotees thank the government efforts for turning Ram Mandir into a reality. One remarkable aspect of Ram Mandir is that it united Hindus from diverse backgrounds. Devotees from every corner of Bharat, regardless of linguistic, regional or cultural backgrounds have contributed to construction of the temple underscoring the universal appeal of Bhagwan Ram. This unity in diversity is exemplified by the participation of devotees of North to South who have come together in the spirit of shared devotion and purpose. Devotees like Sridhar from Tamil Nadu and Revanthi from Telangana who visited Ayodhya for darshan of Ram Lala, highlight that “the temple transcends regional boundaries. This dispels the myth of a north-south divide and emphasizes the shared cultural heritage of Bharat.” Every Ram devotee regardless of language or geography of south and north actively participated in campaigns such as fundraising, volunteer work and religious ceremonies associated with construction of the Bhagwan Ram temple. This cross-regional association highlights the supreme power of faith and emphasizes the significance of the Ram Mandir as a unifying symbol for Hindus globally. A Maharashtrian family believes the temple transcends state boundaries and uplifts the entire nation. They express a desire for the restoration of temples in Kashi and Mathura destroyed in the past, hoping for their revival under the current leadership. As per Maharishi Valmiki’s Ramayana, Ram is an institution of faith, hope, unity, justice, harmony, discipline, family, etc. and the Ram mandir is a medium to teach those irreplaceable values. Beyond the borders, the construction of the Ram Mandir has garnered immense support and participation from the Hindus globally. A Hindu non-resident Indian family from USA expressed their joy and gratitude for witnessing the reinstallation of Ram Lulla’s idol. A family from Jharkhand with roots in Mithila sees the temple as a source of national pride uniting Hindus worldwide. Hindu diaspora in countries such as United States of America, Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia have contributed financially and emotionally in the Ram Mandir construction and Pran Pratishtha believing it as a historic moment that reaffirms their cultural identity and religious heritage. Ram Mandir stands not only as a physical structure but demonstrates lasting faith and collective aspirations of Hindus across the globe. The Bhartiya system which teaches values and principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbkam” envisions whole world as a big family and “Sarve bhavantu sukhinah, Sarve santu niramayah, Sarve bhadrani pasyantu, Ma kaschit duhkhabhag bhavet” translated as “May all beings be happy, may all be free from disease, may all see auspiciousness, may none be afflicted with suffering.” These shlokas convey that human aspirations for prosperity and happiness are universal and there is a common goal that transcends culture and location. At its core, the Ram Mandir is not only a sign of faith but a symbol of hope for communal harmony and shared prosperity. The construction of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya marks a milestone in Bharat’s cultural and religious history. Apart from its grandeur, the temple also symbolizes the collective determination and commitment of Hindus from all over the globe. By bridging the regional divides and creating a sense of harmony among different communities, the Ram mandir symbolizes the eternal legacy of Bhagwan Ram and timeless values that he stands for. Estimated seven million devotees have reportedly had darshan of Ram Lulla in first few weeks it self. (Author Vivek Raina is Manager Outreach & Dissemination at Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies)

Hindus World

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Bhagwan Ram Temple: A sneak peek at its marvellous features

As January 22 gets closer, the excitement of Bhagwan Ram worshipers is also intensifying. Individuals inside and outside the country look forward to the magnificent ceremony in Ayodhya as they identify themselves with Bhagwan Ram’s values and principles. This much-anticipated Pran Pratistha ceremony is a religious emblem and a work of architectural and environmental excellence. Shri Ram Tirtha Kshetra Trust has unveiled a map of the 70-acre complex, providing enthusiasts with a full grasp of the precise planning that went into the temple’s layout, architecture, and construction. Architectural Marvel: The temple’s construction is designed carefully, considering ancient Indian architecture. Although the temple is grand in terms of area, it is also ready to guide coming generations by embracing the cultural heritage of India with equal grandeur. The temple is a tall structure consisting of three floors, each measuring 20 feet in height, 250 feet in width, and 380 feet in length from east to west. The structure stands at a towering height of 161 feet and has a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors, all meticulously crafted in the old Nagara architectural style. Worshippers will enter the temple from the east, ascending 32 steps through the Singh Dwar (Gate), and will exit through the south side. Significance of Percota: Upon entering the temple, devotees will immediately sense a profound religious ambience. Every pillar and space within the temple has been meticulously designed with minute detailing, ensuring a spiritual experience for devotees. With 732-metre-long and 14-feet-wide Percota, enhancing its aesthetic appeal, the temple’s corners have been dedicated to the Sun God, Maa Bhagwati, Bhagwan Ganesha, and Bhagwan Shiv. A separate temple dedicated to Bhagwan Hanuman, who provided unwavering loyalty to Bhagwan Ram, will be situated in the northern side & another temple adorned with Mata Annapurna on the Southern side of the temple compound, with a touch of spiritual profundity. Intricate inclusion within the complex: The journey of becoming Maryada Purushottam Bhagwan Ram was not accomplished by sole efforts. According to the epic Ramayana, Bhagwan Ram’s exile to the forest, abduction of Mata Sita, Ravana’s death, and his return to Ayodhya after 14 years, he received invaluable assistance from numerous souls whose contribution remains indelible. Accordingly, the primary temple complex would include temples devoted to Rishi Valmiki, Rishi Vashishtha, Rishi Vishwamitra, Rishi Agastya, King Nishad, Mata Shabari, and Mata Ahilya. This intricate inclusion pays homage to the rich fabric of Hindu history and spirituality. Pilgrim facilities and environmental sustainability: In addition to its role as a spiritual centre, the temple complex also holds significant cultural value for devotees of Bhagwan Ram. A convenience centre is being developed to facilitate the needs of all pilgrims visiting for Bhagwan Ram’s darshan. This centre will have the capacity to house the necessary belongings of 25 thousand pilgrims, assuring visitors a smooth and hassle-free experience. A hospital located on the premises offers medical treatment for health conditions. Furthermore, the amenities encompass a spacious restroom facility, two sewage treatment plants, a water purification facility, and a dedicated electricity supply line. A fire brigade station is dedicated to maintaining stable groundwater levels by extracting water from an underground reservoir. This holistic approach to infrastructure development is linked to the vision of creating a sustainable and eco-friendly campus. Cultural preservation: The endeavour is commendable as the construction is completely focused on Indian culture and indigenous technology with strong emphasis on sustainable water conservation. The temple complex prominently showcases ancient trees, with 70 percent of the 70-acre space covered with lush greenery. This seamless traditional integration and contemporary elements establishes a model for future architectural endeavours. Bhagwan Ram Temple in Ayodhya is not merely a religious structure but evidence of exceptional architectural competence, meticulous aesthetics, and an unwavering dedication to environmental sustainability. As the Pran Pratishtha approaches, the temple’s unveiling will symbolise a significant spiritual milestone and showcase India’s cultural legacy and commitment to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

Education Hindus Media World

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Ram Mandir Saga: Unraveling Bharat’s Timeless Cultural Heritage

In heart of Ayodhya, where history and spirituality intertwine, a monumental transformation has emerged — one that symbolizes unity, reconciliation and the shared cultural heritage of a diverse nation. The Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Maryada Purshottam Lord Shree Ram Mandir on the Janmabhoomi is set to be held on January 22, 2023. Rohan Giri Protracted and arduous journey in the run up to construct a grand temple for Lord Shree Ram is a testament to resilience and maturity of Bharatiya people that seek to build a future on understanding and mutual respect. This grand temple and consecration of Lord Ram scheduled for January 22 next year symbolizes national unity, reminding us that, despite our differences, we share common history and rich cultural roots. Construction of Ram Mandir has paved the way for a new era of inclusivity in Bharat. The project concerned reconstructing a magnificent temple, healing wounds and fostering a sense of belonging among all communities. The site has been transformed into a symbol of shared heritage, inviting people from all walks of life to come together and celebrate Bharat’s cultural mosaic. Before delving into the ongoing construction of Ram mandir in Ayodhya, we must acquaint ourselves with a timeless story that transcends epochs, echoing the collective heartbeat of a nation. The saga unfolds in Treta Yuga, as Ayodhya etches its indelible mark in the historical scrolls as the majestic capital of Ikshvaku dynasty. Under the reign of King Dasarath, the city witnessed birth of Bhagwan Shree Ram, the paragon of virtue. Ayodhya’s historical roots delve into the ancient scriptures of Ramayana and Skanda Purana, narrating the story of the birth of revered Shree Ram. Hindu epic Ramayana tells the saga of Shree Ram’s exile, the abduction of mata Sita, and his triumphant return to Ayodhya. As time unfolded into Dvapara Yuga, Ram mandir persisted as symbol of reverence, preserving the legacy of Lord Ram and the ideals he embodied. Although this age was characterized by advent of Lord Krishna, the sanctity of Ayodhya and Ram mandir endured as a revered pilgrimage site. In the contemporary era, identified as the Kali Yuga, the narrative of Ram Janmabhoomi faced formidable challenges with the advent of Islamic rulers, marking the onset of a chapter rife with destruction and radical change. The construction of the Babri Mosque atop the Ram Mandir by Mir Baqi during Babur’s reign brought about a profound alteration in the city’s landscape, giving rise to a complex juxtaposition of faiths that would unfold and resonate over centuries. In the period of Mughal invaders, Bharat harboured a multitude of temples, nearly all of which were meticulously targeted, demolished, and subsequently replaced with new or Islamic religious structures. Many temples, their historical significance now erased, serve as silent witnesses to this tumultuous period. A current national debate centres on Ram Janmabhoomi and Krishna Janmabhoomi, as they are the most revered deities in Bharat. In Hindu Dharma, temples hold profound significance, serving as centres of divine spiritual devotion, worship and as sources of culture, traditions, music, dance, education, architecture, food, yoga, meditation, and medicine. Presently, a significant majority of Bharatiyas are advocating for restoration of these heritage sites, which suffered demolition during invasions, emphasizing the necessity for redevelopment. Additionally, there is a growing call for the establishment of proper maintenance mechanisms for the most significant temples, especially those in remote areas. Centuries later, after a 134-year-long cultural, historical, and civilizational legal battle, the essence of Ayodhya was reaffirmed in the Supreme Court’s unanimous verdict in 2019. This landmark decision rested on concrete evidence rather than mere faith, marking a significant moment in the sacred land’s enduring journey. The decision paved the way for the construction of the Ram Mandir, a symbol of hope and unity for millions of devotees globally. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s auspicious pooja on August 5, 2020, marked the official commencement of the Mandir’s construction—a moment etched in the annals of history. Historical turbulence notwithstanding, Ayodhya’s spirit endured, transcending borders and resonating globally. Devotion for Bhagwan Ram extends beyond Bharat, with Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Indonesia, and other nations expressing reverence for Ayodhya’s cultural significance. The Pran Pratishtha, consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir stands as a poignant reminder of the shared values that unite the people of Bharat. The Mandir’s grandeur symbolizes deep devotion to Lord Ram and represents a collective determination to transcend historical grievances and welcome a future marked by shared prosperity. Ayodhya holds a sacred place alongside Mathura and Haridwar, encapsulating the cultural and spiritual essence of Sanatan Dharma. (Rohan is a journalism graduate from Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) New Delhi, and Manager Operations at CIHS.)

Fact Sheet Hindus

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Factsheet: Ram Janmabhoomi and Ayodhya Ram Temple

During the Treta Yuga (one of the four world ages in Sanatan Dharma), Ayodhya served as the Ikshavaku dynasty’s capital. According to Hindu Itihasa (history), the first human “Manu,” had a son named Ikshavaku and it was Ikshavaku who established Raghuvanshi or Suryavamsha dynasty (solar dynasty, also known as Ikshvaku dynasty). Dasarath, the king of Ayodhya was born in the Suryavanshi dynasty. A man of his words, radiant, prosperous and devoted to truth. It is to King Dasarath and his wife Kaushalya that Shree Ram was born in Ayodhya.

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