Historic Vow and Pledge in Ayodhya
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to return to Ayodhya, marking the fulfillment of a vow he made 32 years ago during his visit to the holy town. On January 14, 1992, Modi pledged to return only after the construction of the Ram temple dedicated to Lord Ram was completed. This momentous occasion, captured on social media, highlights Modi’s commitment and the culmination of efforts towards the construction of the temple.
Background and Integration of Kashmir
During his 1992 visit to Ayodhya, Modi was part of the ‘yatra’ advocating the integration of Kashmir with India, a goal achieved with the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Modi, chanting ‘Jai Shri Ram,’ participated in the worship of Lord Ram, then housed in a makeshift tent. His declaration to return only after the temple’s completion has now become a reality.
Foundational Steps and Supreme Court Judgment
The first step towards fulfilling his pledge was the laying of the foundation stone for the grand temple on August 5, 2020. This significant event took place at the site believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram, following the Supreme Court’s judgment on November 9, 2019, directing the transfer of the disputed land to the government-formed trust. The consecration ceremony, scheduled for January 22, will follow Vedic rituals for the ‘pran pratishtha’ of Ram Lalla, commencing on January 16.
Modi’s Preparations and Rituals
Ahead of the ceremony, Modi has embarked on an 11-day fast, incorporating ‘yam niyam’ principles encompassing moral and ethical conduct, prayers, and yoga. Modi initiated this ritual from Panchavati in Nashik, a significant location in the lore of Lord Ram, Sita, and Laxman. Emphasizing the significance of the rituals, Modi stated, “This is a huge responsibility. As it is also said in our scriptures, we have to awaken divine consciousness in ourselves for the yagya and worship of god.”
The return to Ayodhya holds immense cultural and religious importance, symbolizing the fulfillment of a commitment made three decades ago.
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