Ram Mandir Consecration: A Historic Day of Unity and Renewal

Nation Celebrates: Ram Mandir Inaugurated

Historic Milestone: Ayodhya’s Grand Occasion

By Prof. Jasim Mohammad

On the auspicious day of January 22, 2024, India witnessed a momentous occasion that reverberated with historical significance—the installation and Pran-Pratishtha ceremony of the Murty of Shri Ramlala at the revered Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. This landmark event marked the culmination of a centuries-long struggle, intertwining the threads of faith, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of the Indian people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation, characterised this event as a new beginning, declaring an end to the country’s 500-year-long wait. The unveiling of the Ram Lalla idol, following the consecration ceremony at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, was witnessed by PM Modi, Chief Yajman, and RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, alongside numerous state dignitaries and celebrities. During his address, PM Modi expressed profound sentiments, emphasizing that the moment signified the resolution of a controversial land dispute settled in 2019 by the Supreme Court, paving the way for the construction of the temple on the disputed site.

He expressed the joyous moment, declaring, “Today, our Ram has arrived. After a long wait for ages, our Ram has arrived.” Modi emphasized that the cherished deity, Ram Lalla, would no longer dwell in a tent but in a magnificent temple.

The ceremony followed a landmark Supreme Court judgment in 2019 on the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title suit, paving the way for the temple’s construction. During the event, Modi visited the Kuber Tila, offering worship to Lord Shiva. Guests were presented with gifts, including a book on Ayodhya, a metal diya, a special mala, and a scarf bearing Lord Ram’s name.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded PM Modi, noting the blessings of Lord Ram on this “revolutionary work.” PM Modi, inspired by the occasion, announced the “Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana,” aiming to install rooftop solar panels on one crore houses. He highlighted the significance, stating, “This will not only reduce the electricity bill of the poor and middle class but also make India self-reliant in the field of energy.”

In his words, PM Modi conveyed that the Ram temple’s construction signifies more than a physical structure; it represents the dawn of a new era, emphasizing unity and a solution to long-standing disputes. The temple, crafted in the traditional Nagara style, stands as a symbol of India’s cultural heritage and unity. The celebrations echoed globally, with Indians abroad joining in to mark this historic occasion.

The grandeur of the occasion was underscored by the participation of approximately 8,000 VIP guests, including prominent politicians, celebrities, sportspersons, and industrialists, collectively witnessing the culmination of this significant chapter in India’s history. PM Modi’s words resonated with a deep sense of national pride, proclaiming that the era inaugurated on January 22 is not merely a date but the commencement of a new epoch for the nation.

The history of Bharat unfolds as a narrative of unwavering resistance against invaders spanning over the last fifteen centuries. From the ravages of plunder to the shackles of colonisation, early invasions left a trail of destruction. However, the attacks under the banner of Islam not only brought devastation but also a systematic assault on religious places, including the repeated desecration of temples. The intent was clear—to demoralise and weaken the Bharatiya society.

The saga continued with the deliberate demolition of the Shri Ram temple in Ayodhya, echoing the invaders’ strategy to shatter the spirit of the people. This pattern persisted, and the Ram Janmabhoomi issue became deeply ingrained in the collective consciousness of Hindus. The struggle endured through the years, including the failed attempt in 1857 to overthrow British rule, where Hindus and Muslims united, underscoring their readiness to fight together. 

Post-independence, discussions on liberating Ram Janmabhoomi gained momentum, especially after the unanimous renovation of the Somnath temple in 1947. However, political dynamics shifted, leading to divisive policies like “Divide and Rule.” The British, and later Indian governments, exploited religious fault lines, hindering the resolution of the Ram Janmabhoomi issue.

The turning point arrived in 2019 when, after 134 years of legal battles, the Supreme Court delivered a balanced decision, considering the sentiments of both parties. A board of trustees was formed for the construction of the temple, culminating in the Bhoomipujan on August 5, 2020. Now, on January 22, 2024, the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony marks the fulfillment of a long-standing dream.

Beyond the legal battles, this day signifies more than the construction of a temple. It is a reawakening of national pride and an acknowledgment of the timeless values embodied in the character of Shri Ram. Shri Ram, revered as the most worshipped deity in the majority society, symbolizes an ideal way of life. The call to worship Shri Ram is not just a ritual but a commitment to emulate the qualities of integrity, forgiveness, strength, compassion, and humility. The construction of the Ram Mandir is a call to unite as a nation, transcending religious boundaries. It is an opportunity to embrace the teachings of Shri Ram, fostering a society where individuals view others as family and treat all with compassion and equality. The vision is clear—to build a society rooted in justice, harmony, and social virtues, mirroring the ideals of Shri Ram.

In celebrating this historic day, let us recognize the importance of unity among diverse religious communities. The reconstruction of Bharat is not just a national duty but a global responsibility. By embodying the teachings of Shri Ram, India has the potential to inspire positive change worldwide. Let the light of Ram Mandir guide us in fostering a society that upholds justice, compassion, and equality. The Pran-Pratishtha ceremony is not just the consecration of a deity but a collective commitment to build a better India and contribute to the reconstruction of the entire world. In this moment of celebration, let unity, tolerance, and respect for all religions be the pillars on which the new India stands, echoing the sentiment of Ayodhya—a city where there is no war, a place free from conflict. Muslim believers in our country eagerly anticipated the ‘Prana Pratishtha’ ceremony of the Ayodhya Ram Temple and were keen to participate in Lord Ram bhajans. This event was seen as a symbol of unity for the nation.

In Ayodhya, people from across the nation, transcending religious boundaries, braved the bone-chilling cold to reach the temple town through various means such as walking, cycling, and even skating. The convergence was fuelled by an unwavering faith in Lord Ram and a palpable religious fervor sweeping the country. Motivated by a deep desire to be part of the historic consecration ceremony on January 22, they aimed to convey a powerful message of love and unity through their collective presence on this significant day. The installation and Pran-Pratishtha ceremony of the Murty of Shri Ramlala at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024, marked a historic milestone in India’s cultural and religious landscape. This event, rooted in centuries of struggle and faith, not only symbolised the construction of a temple but also served as a catalyst for national unity, pride, and the revival of timeless values embodied in Shri Ram.