Ayodhya Ram Mandir: A story of Celebration & Controversy

Why The Celebration?

Ayodhya Ram Mandir is a symbol of cultural and religious significance for Hindus, marking the birthplace of Lord Rama.

Why the Hatred?

The site is also a source of deep-seated conflict, feeding into the historical and ongoing tensions between Hindus and Muslims in India.

Historical Background:

1528: The Mughal emperor Babur constructed the Babri Masjid on the site, allegedly over a demolished temple.

Writings & Evidence: Babur’s autobiography and foreign accounts from the 18th century provide evidence of the temple’s existence prior to the mosque.

The Conflict Begins:

• 1850s: Hindus began claiming the site, leading to British intervention and the establishment of separate worship areas for Hindus and Muslims.
• 1885: Legal disputes started with Mahant Raghubir Das’s petition to build a shelter on the site.

• Communal Tensions:
  • 1949: An idol of Ram appeared inside the mosque, sparking further disputes. Both communities approached the court, leading to a government-enforced lockdown of the site.
• The Turning Point:
  • 1984: The Vishwa Hindu Parishad launched the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, gathering support and funds for temple construction.
  • 1986: The court allowed Hindus to enter and perform rituals inside the mosque, intensifying Muslim opposition.
• Political and Archaeological Developments:
  • 1989: Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi permitted the laying of the temple foundation near the disputed area.
  • 1990: Archaeological evidence suggested the presence of a temple beneath the mosque.
• Violence and Aftermath:
  • 1992: A rally led by the BJP and Vishwa Hindu Parishad resulted in the demolition of the mosque, sparking widespread riots and destruction of temples in Pakistan and Bangladesh.
• Legal Proceedings and Resolutions:
  • 2010: The Allahabad High Court divided the disputed land among three parties but dissatisfaction led to an appeal in the Supreme Court.
  • 2019: The Supreme Court awarded the land to a trust to build the Ram Mandir and allocated alternative land for a mosque.
• The Significance:
  • The Ram Mandir’s reconstruction symbolizes the reclamation of a significant religious site for Hindus, akin to historical reclamations in Spain and Greece.
  • Cultural Impact: The resolution marks the end of a 500-year-long struggle, underscoring the importance of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect between communities. The Ram Mandir is more than a religious structure; it represents cultural heritage, historical struggles, and the ongoing journey towards reconciliation and unity. Jai Shriram.

Timeline of Key Incidents in the Ayodhya Ram Mandir Dispute:

1528: Babri Masjid Construction

• Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, orders the construction of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, allegedly on the site of a pre-existing temple dedicated to Lord Rama.

1850s: Initial Conflicts

• The first recorded communal clashes occur as Hindus claim the site as the birthplace of Lord Rama. The British colonial administration erects a fence to separate the inner courtyard (used by Muslims) from the outer courtyard (used by Hindus).

1885: Legal Petitions Begin

• Mahant Raghubir Das files a suit in the Faizabad court seeking permission to build a canopy on the Ram Chabutra in the outer courtyard. The court rejects the plea, citing the age of the mosque.

1949: Idol Placement

• On the night of December 22, idols of Ram Lalla appear inside the mosque. Hindus claim a miraculous appearance, while Muslims accuse Hindus of placing them there. The government declares the site disputed and locks it.

1984: Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) Campaign

• The VHP launches a nationwide movement to reclaim the site and build a temple. The campaign gains significant momentum.

1986: Mosque Unlocked

• A district judge orders the gates of the mosque to be unlocked, allowing Hindus to worship the idols. This decision sparks protests from the Muslim community.

1990: Archaeological Evidence

• B.B. Lal, former Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India, claims to have found evidence of a temple beneath the mosque during excavations in the 1970s.

1992: Demolition of Babri Masjid

• On December 6, a large rally organized by VHP and BJP leads to the demolition of the Babri Masjid by kar sevaks. The event triggers widespread communal riots across India, resulting in significant loss of life and property.

2003: Archaeological Excavations

• As per the orders of the Allahabad High Court, the Archaeological Survey of India conducts further excavations and reports finding remnants of a temple.

2010: Allahabad High Court Verdict

• The High Court rules to divide the disputed land into three parts: one-third to the Ram Lalla deity, one-third to the Sunni Waqf Board, and one-third to the Nirmohi Akhara. All parties appeal to the Supreme Court.

2019: Supreme Court Judgment

• On November 9, the Supreme Court awards the entire disputed land to the Hindu side for the construction of a Ram temple. The court orders the government to provide an alternative five-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a mosque.

2020: Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony

• On August 5, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lays the foundation stone for the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

This timeline highlights the significant events and turning points in the long-standing Ayodhya Ram Mandir dispute.

Detailed Facts About the New Ayodhya Ram Mandir:

1. Location and Significance
   • The Ram Mandir is being constructed on the site traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh.
2. Foundation Stone
   • The foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 5, 2020, marking a significant milestone in the long-standing dispute.
3. Architectural Design
   • The temple is designed in the Nagara style of Indian temple architecture, characterized by its intricate carvings and towering spires.
   • The design was prepared by the architect Chandrakant Sompura, who comes from a family with a history of temple architecture.
4. Dimensions and Structure
   • The temple will have a length of 235 feet, a width of 135 feet, and a height of 161 feet.
   • It will be a three-story structure with five domes, including the main sanctum, and will house the idol of Ram Lalla (infant Lord Rama).
5. Materials Used
   • The primary construction material is pink sandstone sourced from the Bansi Paharpur mines in Rajasthan.
   • Marble will also be used for decorative elements and flooring.
6. Temple Complex
   • The complex will include other structures such as a museum, a library, a Yagyashala (sacrificial altar), and a Sanskrit school.
   • The entire complex is spread over 67 acres, with landscaped gardens, water bodies, and pathways.
7. Estimated Cost
   • The estimated cost of the temple’s construction is around ₹1,100 crores (approximately USD 150 million).
   • The funding is primarily through donations from devotees and Hindu organizations worldwide.
8. Construction Timeline
   • The construction is expected to be completed by December 2023.
   • The first phase, including the main sanctum, is prioritized to be completed for consecration ceremonies.
9. Technology and Engineering
   • Modern engineering techniques are being used to ensure the temple’s longevity and resilience to natural disasters.
   • The foundation has been reinforced with a mixture of stones and concrete to withstand seismic activities.
10. Cultural and Religious Importance
    • The temple holds immense cultural and religious significance for Hindus, symbolizing the return of Lord Rama to his birthplace.
    • It is expected to attract millions of pilgrims and tourists annually, boosting the local economy.
11. Security and Amenities
    • The temple complex will have state-of-the-art security arrangements, including surveillance cameras and personnel.
    • Amenities for visitors include rest houses, food courts, and parking facilities.
12. Environmental Considerations
    • Eco-friendly practices are being implemented, including rainwater harvesting and the use of renewable energy sources.
    • The landscaping includes planting indigenous trees and maintaining green cover to enhance the temple’s surroundings.
13. Cultural Programs
    • The temple complex will host cultural programs, religious discourses, and festivals throughout the year.
    • These programs aim to promote Hindu culture, spirituality, and teachings of Lord Rama.
14. Community Impact
    • The construction and subsequent functioning of the temple are expected to create thousands of jobs, from construction workers to priests and support staff.
    • Local artisans and craftsmen are involved in the intricate carvings and decorative work, promoting traditional skills and heritage.
15. Global Interest
    • The Ram Mandir has garnered global interest, with contributions and support coming from the Hindu diaspora worldwide.
    • The temple is seen as a symbol of Hindu resurgence and cultural pride.

Why the Ayodhya Ram Mandir Became So Popular and a Tourist Attraction:

1. Historical Significance
   • The site of the Ram Mandir is traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, a major deity in Hinduism. This historical and religious significance makes it a pilgrimage destination for millions of devotees.
2. Cultural and Religious Importance
   • Lord Rama is a central figure in Hindu mythology, and his story is deeply ingrained in Indian culture and religious practices. The temple dedicated to him symbolizes his divine presence and virtues, attracting devotees who seek spiritual solace and blessings.
3. Long-standing Dispute and Resolution
   • The Ayodhya site was the center of a protracted legal and communal dispute between Hindus and Muslims for over a century, culminating in the Supreme Court’s landmark judgment in 2019. The resolution of this conflict and the subsequent construction of the temple captured widespread public and media attention.
4. Architectural Marvel
   • The temple’s design and architecture are grand and intricate, showcasing traditional Nagara-style temple architecture. The use of pink sandstone, detailed carvings, and majestic domes make it an architectural masterpiece, attracting tourists and architecture enthusiasts.
5. Prime Minister’s Involvement
   • The foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a significant event that was widely covered by national and international media. This high-profile involvement added to the temple’s prominence.
6. Symbol of Cultural Resurgence
   • The Ram Mandir is seen by many as a symbol of Hindu cultural resurgence and pride. The temple’s construction is viewed as reclaiming a significant cultural and religious site, resonating deeply with many Hindus.
7. Pilgrimage and Tourism Infrastructure
   • The development of the temple complex includes various amenities for visitors, such as rest houses, food courts, and well-maintained pathways. This infrastructure makes it easier and more comfortable for pilgrims and tourists to visit.
8. Economic Boost to Ayodhya
   • The construction of the temple and the influx of tourists have brought significant economic benefits to Ayodhya, including job creation and increased business for local vendors and hospitality services. This economic boost has further increased the site’s popularity.
9. Media and Publicity
   • Extensive media coverage and publicity surrounding the temple’s construction, including documentaries, news features, and social media campaigns, have raised awareness and interest among people worldwide.
10. Cultural and Religious Events
    • The temple complex hosts various cultural and religious events, festivals, and discourses throughout the year, attracting visitors interested in participating in these vibrant and spiritually enriching activities.
11. Global Hindu Diaspora
    • Support and contributions from the global Hindu diaspora have brought international attention to the temple. Many overseas Hindus visit the temple as part of their cultural and religious pilgrimage.
12. Unique Pilgrimage Experience
    • For many devotees, visiting the Ram Mandir is not just a religious journey but a deeply emotional and spiritual experience. The temple offers a unique blend of devotion, history, and cultural pride, making it a compelling destination.

FAQs on Ayodhya Ram Mandir:

1. What is the Ayodhya Ram Mandir?

• The Ayodhya Ram Mandir is a Hindu temple currently under construction at the site believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, a major deity in Hinduism. The temple is located in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India.

2. Why is the Ayodhya Ram Mandir significant?

• The site holds immense religious and historical importance for Hindus as the birthplace of Lord Rama. It has also been a focal point of a long-standing legal and communal dispute between Hindus and Muslims.

3. What was the Ayodhya dispute?

• The dispute centered around the Babri Masjid, a mosque built in the 16th century by Mughal emperor Babur, which Hindus claimed was constructed over the ruins of a pre-existing temple marking the birthplace of Lord Rama. The conflict led to a series of legal battles and communal riots.

4. What was the Supreme Court’s verdict on the Ayodhya dispute?

• In November 2019, the Supreme Court of India ruled in favor of the construction of a Hindu temple at the disputed site and allocated a separate plot of land in Ayodhya where a mosque will be constructed.

5. When did the construction of the Ram Mandir begin?

• The monumental journey commenced on August 5, 2020, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, marking the official start of construction.

6. What are the key architectural features of the Ram Mandir?

• The temple features traditional Nagara-style architecture with intricate carvings, pink sandstone construction, and majestic domes. It is designed to be a grand, multi-storied structure with sanctums, prayer halls, and expansive courtyards.

7. Who is funding the construction of the Ram Mandir?

• The construction is being funded by donations from devotees and organizations worldwide. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust, established by the government, oversees the project.

8. How can one visit the Ayodhya Ram Mandir?

• The temple complex is open to visitors and pilgrims. Detailed information about visiting hours, entry requirements, and facilities is available on the temple’s official website and local tourism portals.

9. What facilities are available for visitors at the temple complex?

• The complex includes amenities such as rest houses, food courts, well-maintained pathways, and guides to assist visitors. There are also facilities for conducting rituals and ceremonies.

10. When is the expected completion date of the Ram Mandir?

• The first phase of the temple construction is expected to be completed by 2024, with the entire complex slated for completion in subsequent years.

11. Are there any special events or festivals celebrated at the Ram Mandir?

• Yes, the temple hosts various cultural and religious events, including major Hindu festivals such as Diwali, Ram Navami (the birth anniversary of Lord Rama), and other significant dates in the Hindu calendar.

12. How has the local community in Ayodhya benefited from the Ram Mandir project?

• The construction of the Ram Mandir has brought economic benefits to Ayodhya, including job creation, increased business for local vendors, and improvements in infrastructure, boosting tourism and the local economy.

13. Can international visitors participate in temple activities?

• Yes, international visitors are welcome to participate in temple activities and rituals. Information and assistance are provided to ensure a smooth and enriching experience.

14. What are the future plans for the Ayodhya temple complex?

• Future plans include expanding the temple complex to include museums, cultural centers, and other facilities to educate visitors about the historical and religious significance of the site.

15. Where can I find more information about the Ram Mandir?

• More information can be found on the official website of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust, as well as local tourism websites and guides.