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Hamare “Shri Ram”
By Prof . Jasim Mohammad
As the grand inauguration of the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22 approaches, numerous miscreants from several Jammats have made inappropriate appeals to Muslims, urging them to stay indoors and avoid train travel. Despite such actions, it’s crucial to recognize that these misguided appeals don’t reflect the united sentiment of the country, as the Supreme Court’s decision has been embraced peacefully by the people. The nation remains united, and the political maneuvers of a few miscreants should not overshadow the overall atmosphere of harmony and acceptance.
The upcoming inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22 is anticipated to draw over 7,000 guests globally, with expectations of 3-5 lakh daily visitors for at least a month. This surge in pilgrims presents lucrative opportunities for various businesses. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will conduct the rituals around 12:15 pm, and the Nagara-style temple, spanning 2.77 acres, features pink sandstone construction and a notable Shaligram stone representing Lord Ram. The three-floor structure includes dedicated spaces for Lord Ram and Hanuman, a museum, a yajnashala, a community kitchen, and a medical facility, spreading over 67 acres. The temple’s history involves its demolition by Babur in the 16th century, subsequent mosque construction, and the 1992 demolition, settling the Ayodhya dispute in favor of constructing the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, overseen by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust formed by the Indian government.
The Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi dispute, spanning 495 years, originated in 1528 with the contested construction of a mosque on a site believed to be Lord Rama’s birthplace. Communal tensions escalated, prompting the British to erect a fence in 1859, granting limited access to both Hindus and Muslims. The dispute intensified in 1949 when idols were discovered inside the mosque, leading to legal battles and the eventual 2019 Supreme Court verdict allocating 2.77 acres to Hindus. The contentious events of December 6, 1992, saw the demolition of the mosque, triggering widespread communal riots. In 2010, the Lucknow Bench Allahabad High Court divided the disputed land among the Sunni Waqf Board, Ram Lalla Virajman, and the Nirmohi Akhara. The Supreme Court stayed this decision in 2011, urging an out-of-court settlement in 2017. However, with no resolution, the court commenced daily hearings in 2019, culminating in a historic verdict favoring the Ram Janmabhoomi on November 9, 2019. In 2020, after 28 years, the idols were relocated, and on August 5, construction began. Finally, the consecration of the grand temple of Ram Lalla on January 22, 2024, marks the conclusive end to this prolonged and contentious chapter in India’s history.
The Supreme Court’s role as the ultimate judicial authority in the country demands widespread acceptance of its decisions, irrespective of whether they favor any specific religious community, be it Hindus or Muslims. In the case of the Ram Mandir decision favoring the Hindu community, it is crucial for everyone to embrace the verdict with respect, understanding that the Supreme Court’s judgment is the final word in our legal system. Unsubstantiated rumors of potential riots should be dismissed unequivocally, as fostering a peaceful atmosphere is paramount. It is imperative to recognize that the same respect and acceptance would be necessary if the decision had favored the Muslim community. In a diverse nation like India, upholding the sanctity of the judiciary is essential for societal harmony.
Emphasizing unity, regardless of individual affiliations, ensures a collective commitment to the principles of justice and the rule of law, reinforcing the democratic fabric of the nation.
The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) minority morcha has unveiled a heartwarming initiative called ‘Deepotsav,’ planning to illuminate 1,200 dargahs and mosques nationwide with earthen lamps ahead of the consecration ceremony of the idol of Lord Ram inside the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22. Scheduled from January 12 to 22, this program symbolizes a beautiful gesture of unity and inclusivity. BJP’s minority wing head, shared, “We have identified 1,200 small/big mosques, dargah, and other Muslim religious places across the country where we will light diyas.” In Delhi alone, 36 significant places, including the Jama Masjid and Nizamuddin Dargah, will participate.
During his visit to Ayodhya on December 30, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for lighting diyas on January 22, turning it into a nationwide Diwali celebration. He encouraged cleanliness drives at pilgrimage sites and temples from January 14 to 22. This thoughtful initiative, aimed at fostering communal harmony, reflects the BJP’s commitment to bringing people of diverse religions, cultures, and ethnicities together. As the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony of Lord Ram unfolds, marking a monumental event, the nation collectively celebrates the spirit of unity, brotherhood, and harmony. In acknowledging and respecting all religions, we embrace the true ethos of India, symbolizing the values that unite us all.
While the majority of common people have accepted the recent decision without issue, there are concerns arising from certain groups, particularly Jammats, who persist in spreading a false narrative. These groups claim that the decision was not in favor of Muslims and have been insinuating potential riots. This narrative appears to be a strategic political move, playing the victim card to advance their agenda. It is crucial to note that the present government has consistently prioritized maintaining peace and demonstrating respect for every religion across the country. The government’s track record in promoting communal harmony underscores its commitment to fostering understanding among diverse communities. It’s important for the public to discern between groundless claims and the actual efforts of a government dedicated to upholding peace and harmony, irrespective of religious affiliations.
Encouraging open dialogue and understanding can contribute to dispelling unfounded fears and promoting a united and inclusive society.
In a strategic move aimed at ensuring a peaceful environment ahead of the Ayodhya Ram Temple consecration ceremony on January 22, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reportedly directed his cabinet colleagues to exercise restraint and avoid aggression. These strict directives were issued during a meeting of the Union Cabinet on Monday. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of refraining from making unwarranted statements that could incite tension. This directive is part of a comprehensive strategy to maintain calm and harmony, underscoring the government’s commitment to a tranquil atmosphere surrounding the historic event.
Also, ministers were instructed to play a pivotal role in fostering peace in their constituencies and to facilitate the visit of locals from their respective regions to Ayodhya post the ceremony. This approach reflects a concerted effort to not only manage the immediate situation but also to contribute to a sustained and much-needed peaceful coexistence in the aftermath of this significant event.
The Shri Ram Temple consecration ceremony, to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will host eminent personalities and celebrities among the 7,000 invitees by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust. Leaders like UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are expected to address the event, which will be broadcast live in India and abroad. The gathering reflects a significant and inclusive occasion, drawing attention from various quarters to witness the historic opening of the Ram Temple.
In the midst of the historic Shri Ram Temple consecration ceremony, it is imperative for members of the Hindu community to exercise responsibility and uphold the values of communal harmony. While celebrating their faith and the culmination of a long-standing aspiration, it is crucial for Hindus to remain sensitive to the sentiments of their Muslim brethren. Respect for diversity and fostering unity should be paramount. In this momentous occasion, it becomes essential for the Hindu community to refrain from any actions that might hurt the feelings of their Muslim counterparts. It is a call to act as responsible citizens, recognizing the significance of mutual respect and understanding.
Falling into any provocative narratives or succumbing to divisive agendas should be avoided, as the strength of a nation lies in its unity amidst diversity. By upholding these principles, the Hindu community contributes not only to the success of the Shri Ram Temple ceremony but also to the broader vision of an inclusive and harmonious society that respects the beliefs and sentiments of all its citizens. This responsible approach ensures that the historic event becomes a symbol of unity rather than a source of division.
All religions should be respected,” many Urdu poets have conveyed messages of tolerance, unity, and harmony among diverse communities. Poets like Allama Iqbal and Faiz Ahmed Faiz often emphasized the importance of coexistence and mutual respect. Their poetry carries themes of unity beyond religious boundaries, promoting the idea of embracing diversity. While the exact phrase may not be directly attributed to a single poet, the broader sentiment of respecting all religions is encapsulated in the spirit of many Urdu literary works that advocate for communal harmony and understanding.
Allama Iqbal, a renowned Urdu poet and philosopher, transcended religious boundaries in his poetic expressions, eloquently eulogizing figures beyond the Islamic tradition. In one notable instance, Iqbal revered Lord Ram, referring to him as the “Imam-e-Hind” or the spiritual leader of India. This epithet reflects Iqbal’s recognition of the cultural and spiritual richness embedded in India’s diverse heritage. Through such poetic expressions, Iqbal sought to emphasize unity and shared spiritual values, encouraging a sense of collective identity that goes beyond individual religious affiliations. This acknowledgment of Lord Ram as a significant spiritual figure demonstrates Iqbal’s profound respect for India’s pluralistic ethos and the synthesis of various religious traditions within its cultural tapestry.
(Author is Professor and the Donor and former Media Advisor of Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh Email: [email protected])–
Author Details:
Dr. Jasim Mohammad, Professor, Arunachal University of Studies (AUS), Namsai. Chairman, Centre for Narendra Modi Studies (CNMS). Visit : www.namostudies.com Email: [email protected]
Former Head & Group Editor, Roznama Rashtriya Sahara (National Urdu Daily) & Aalami Sahara TV (Urdu News Channel) ,Former Media Advisor, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Email: profjasimmd@gmail.com, 099970 63595
