Chronicling the journey from Rath Yatra to consecration, BISWAJEET BANERJEE captures the perseverance, struggle, and unyielding commitment of leaders who shaped the Ram Mandir movement
The journey towards the consecration of Lord Ram in Ayodhya on January 22 is a testament to a five-century-long arduous struggle. This historic moment, marked by the completion of the grand Ram temple, is the culmination of a tumultuous saga characterised by disputes, violence, and prolonged legal battles. The path to this monumental achievement was paved by the unwavering perseverance of devotees and a landmark court ruling that resolved long standing conflicts.
The Ram Janmabhoomi struggle had its roots deeply embedded in history, with the dispute over the site being a focal point for centuries. It revolved around the belief that the Babri Masjid was constructed on the birthplace of Lord Ram, becoming a flashpoint for communal tensions and triggering a series of events that defined the course of the struggle.
The perseverance of the devotees emerged as a driving force that sustained the movement across generations. The unwavering faith in Ayodhya as the sacred birthplace of Lord Ram fueled the determination of those involved in the movement. Over decades, they encountered challenges ranging from political opposition to societal discord, yet their commitment remained steadfast.
The movement also witnessed the instrumental role played by key figures who became central to its narrative. These individuals not only dedicated their lives to the cause but also navigated the intricacies and challenges of the struggle. Their leadership, often in the face of adversity, was crucial in steering the movement towards its ultimate goal.
A landmark court ruling in 2019 provided a decisive resolution to the legal disputes surrounding the site. The judgment acknowledged the historical and religious significance of the land, paving the way for the construction of the Ram temple. This legal victory marked a turning point in the struggle, offering a path for reconciliation and unity.
As Ayodhya prepares for the consecration of the Ram temple, it stands as a symbol of triumph over adversity and a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dedicated their lives to the cause. The completion of the majestic temple signifies not only a religious milestone but also reflects the resilience and determination that shaped the history of the Ram Janmabhoomi struggle.
The saga witnessed significant contributors who played pivotal roles in shaping the movement and steering it towards success. Among them are key figures whose journeys reflect the intricacies and challenges faced during this transformative period.
Lal Krishna Advani
Rath Yatra Architect
The Rath Yatra led by former Deputy Prime Minister Lal Krishna Advani in 1984 is widely regarded as a watershed moment in the Ram temple movement. In the aftermath of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's assassination, Advani's Rath Yatra became a significant catalyst, solidifying the roots of the movement. Despite the BJP winning only two seats in the 1984 Lok Sabha elections, Advani assumed leadership, emphasising Hindutva policies. Under his guidance, the BJP included the goal of building the Ram temple in its manifesto.
In 1990, Advani announced the Rath Yatra from Somnath in Gujarat to Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh. The journey, filled with fervent support, encountered obstacles when Lalu Prasad, then Chief Minister of Bihar, arrested Advani. Nevertheless, the Rath Yatra had already set the movement in motion, becoming a defining moment in the history of the Ram temple struggle.
Murli Manohar Joshi
The Torchbearer
After Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi emerged as a significant leader actively involved in the Ram temple movement. Present during the demolition of the disputed structure in Ayodhya, Joshi played a crucial role in shaping the movement's strategies. His involvement extended to studying every aspect related to the Ram Mandir movement, contributing to meticulous planning and implementation.
Joshi's influence reached a peak during a meeting held in Lucknow in December 1992, where he urged people to go to Ayodhya the next day. His resolute stance, expressed in statements like "there is no power that can stop the construction of the Ram temple," underscored his commitment to the cause. Joshi's political career included serving as an MP from various constituencies, including Varanasi, Allahabad (now Prayagraj), and Kanpur.
Kalyan Singh
Unwavering Commitment
In 1991-92, at the peak of the Ram Mandir movement, then UP Chief Minister Kalyan Singh played a crucial role in galvanising Ram devotees. Initially expected to refrain from participating in the yatra to avoid potential arrest, Singh surprised everyone by joining the procession near Hanumangarhi. His impassioned address emphasised the relentless pursuit of building the Ram temple, further energising the movement.
Despite the movement's success, Kalyan Singh faced political repercussions and lost his position due to his unwavering commitment to the cause. Unfortunately, he passed away in August 2021, missing the consecration of the Ram temple.
Vinay Katiyar
Bajrang Dal Commander
In 1984, Vinay Katiyar assumed the role of the first president of Bajrang Dal, formed for the Ram Mandir movement. Tasked with rallying people for the cause, Katiyar travelled from village to village, organising meetings, and garnering support. These efforts bore fruit as, under Vinay Katiyar's leadership, Bajrang Dal successfully connected people across the country for the Ram Mandir movement.
His political stature grew post-movement, leading him to become the National General Secretary of the BJP. He served as an elected Member of Parliament thrice from the Faizabad (Ayodhya) Lok Sabha seat.
Uma Bharti
The Firebrand Leader
Known for her fiery speeches during times of crisis, Uma Bharti played a pivotal role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. Post the movement, Bharti remained active in politics, serving as a minister in the central government of Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra Modi. She also held the position of CM of Madhya Pradesh from 2003 to 2004.
Sadhvi Ritambhara
Voice of Passion
As the second firebrand woman leader of the Ram Mandir movement, Sadhvi Ritambhara's impassioned speeches resonated across the country. Despite her withdrawal from active politics, she continues her spiritual journey, running an ashram named Vatsalya Gram in Vrindavan.
Ashok Singhal
Chief Architect
Ashok Singhal, the international president of Vishwa Hindu Parishad for 20 years, is considered one of the chief architects of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. His strategic planning and leadership were instrumental in shaping the movement, including the organisation of the parliament held at Vigyan Bhawan in Delhi in 1984.
Singhal's role extended to leading the Kar Sevaks who demolished the disputed structure in 1992. He passed away on November 17, 2015.
Ram and Sharad Kothri
Saffron Flag Bearers
Real brothers from Kolkata, Ram Kumar Kothri, and Sharad Kumar Kothri played significant roles in the movement. They were part of the initial group of Karsevaks in 1990, raising the saffron flag on the disputed structure. Tragically, both brothers were shot during the kar seva on November 2, 1990, becoming martyrs and inspiring a surge of support for the movement."
Champat Rai
Behind-the-Scenes Architect
Champat Rai, the General Secretary of Ram Mandir Trust, worked diligently behind the scenes, gathering documentary evidence related to the Ram temple even before the demolition of the disputed structure. Rai's meticulous efforts included studying thousands of documents, reading scriptures, and providing crucial evidence to lawyers fighting the legal battle for Ram Janmabhoomi.
Praveen Togadia
Firebrand VHP Leader
Alongside Vinay Katiyar, Praveen Togadia actively contributed to the Ram Mandir movement as a leader associated with Vishwa Hindu Parishad. Recognised for his dynamic speeches, Togadia played a significant role in rallying public support and fostering enthusiasm during the movement. Although currently not affiliated with Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Togadia's legacy remains connected to the fervor of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.
