<p>The entire Bollywood is gearing up for the grand inauguration of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir. Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut reached Ayodhya a day before the historic&nbsp;'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony in Ayodhya.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-ram-mandir-inauguration-live-stunning-images-of-new-temple-released-681933">Check Ram Mandir Inauguration Live Updates Here.</a><br />
<br />
Before the big day, the actress met the spiritual guru Swami Rambhadracharya and performed a special puja, and took part in PM Narendra Modi's&nbsp;cleanliness drive.<br />
<br />
The actress took to her Instagram handle to share a glimpse of her meeting with saint Swami Rambhadracharya. In the photos, the actress can be seen seeking blessings from the spiritual leader.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-rajinikanth-anupam-kher-and-other-stars-jet-off-to-ayodhya-before-ram-mandir-consecration-ceremony-682071">Rajinikanth, Anupam Kher and other stars jet off to Ayodhya before Ram Mandir consecration ceremony</a><br />
<br />
In another photo, Kangana, all decked up in traditional Indian attire, can be seen performing puja with devotion.<br />
<br />
Sharing the photos, the actress wrote, ''Come my Ram. Today I met the most revered Shri Rambhadracharya, took his blessings. Participated in the Shastravat Collective Hanuman Ji Yagna organized by him. Everyone is Rammayi in welcoming Shri Ram in Ayodhya Dham. Tomorrow the king of Ayodhya is coming home after a long exile. Come my Ram, come my Ram 🚩.''</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C2WkIekCjtk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kangana Ranaut (@kanganaranaut)</a></p>
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<p>For her first day in Ayodhya, the actress opted for a Banarasi maroon saree. She completed her look with heavy jewellery and a big bindi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/entertainment/akshay-kumar-hema-malini-celebs-who-donated-for-ram-temple-construction-in-ayodhya-1705837022219" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">Akshay Kumar, Hema Malini: Celebs Who Donated For Ram Temple</a><br />
<br />
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the citizens of India to clean temples and holy places across the country. Following the PM's words, Ranaut was spotted cleaning the floor of Ayodhya’s Hanuman Garhi Temple. Several videos of Kangana sweeping the floor of the temple have gone viral.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Uttar Pradesh: Actress Kangana Ranaut participates in cleanliness drive at Hanuman Garhi Temple in Ayodhya.<br />
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She is in Ayodhya to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony tomorrow. <a href="https://t.co/LpElT3ROdf">pic.twitter.com/LpElT3ROdf</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1748965877465375224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Speaking to Indian news agency ANI, the actor said, “I wish to motivate people to pick up the broom by participating in this cleanliness drive. The city has been beautified and has a festive look about it going into the inauguration day.”</p>

<p>Kangana, who never shies away from putting her views forward, is very excited about the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Lord Rama Lalla's idol. She has been continuously sharing&nbsp;photos of the newly built temple and&nbsp;photos and videos coming from the holy city of Ayodhya&nbsp;on her social media handles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/entertainment/bollywood/amitabh-bachchan-rajinikanth-celebs-who-recieved-invitation-for-ram-temples-pran-pratistha-ceremony-1705835389977" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">Amitabh, Rajinikanth: Celebs Invited For Ram Temple's Pran Pratistha Ceremony</a></p>

<p>Sharing her excitement for the historic day, Kangana told ANI on Saturday, "Those visiting Ayodhya Dham not only find peace of mind but also walk away with divine bliss while becoming better and wiser versions of themselves. It is our biggest and most-avowed dham, like the Vatican is for Christians. This city holds a lot of significance not just for the country but even beyond its shores. We are fortunate that Lord Ram has given us the wisdom to visit and worship him here."</p>

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The entire Bollywood is gearing up for the grand inauguration of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir. Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut reached Ayodhya a day before the historic 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony in Ayodhya.

The entire Bollywood is gearing up for the grand inauguration of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir. Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut reached Ayodhya a day before the historic 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony in Ayodhya. Check Ram Mandir Inauguration Live Updates Here. Before the big day, the actress met the spiritual guru Swami Rambhadracharya and performed a special puja, and took part in PM Narendra Modi's cleanliness drive. The actress took to her Instagram handle to share a glimpse of her meeting with saint Swami Rambhadracharya. In the photos, the actress can be seen seeking blessings from the spiritual leader. Also read: Rajinikanth, Anupam Kher and other stars jet off to Ayodhya before Ram Mandir consecration ceremony In another photo, Kangana, all decked up in traditional Indian attire, can be seen performing puja with devotion. Sharing the photos, the actress wrote, ''Come my Ram. Today I met the most revered Shri Rambhadracharya, took his blessings. Participated in the Shastravat Collective Hanuman Ji Yagna organized by him. Everyone is Rammayi in welcoming Shri Ram in Ayodhya Dham. Tomorrow the king of Ayodhya is coming home after a long exile. Come my Ram, come my Ram 🚩.'' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kangana Ranaut (@kanganaranaut) × For her first day in Ayodhya, the actress opted for a Banarasi maroon saree. She completed her look with heavy jewellery and a big bindi. Akshay Kumar, Hema Malini: Celebs Who Donated For Ram Temple Earlier this week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the citizens of India to clean temples and holy places across the country. Following the PM's words, Ranaut was spotted cleaning the floor of Ayodhya’s Hanuman Garhi Temple. Several videos of Kangana sweeping the floor of the temple have gone viral. #WATCH | Uttar Pradesh: Actress Kangana Ranaut participates in cleanliness drive at Hanuman Garhi Temple in Ayodhya. She is in Ayodhya to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/LpElT3ROdf — ANI (@ANI) January 21, 2024 × Speaking to Indian news agency ANI, the actor said, “I wish to motivate people to pick up the broom by participating in this cleanliness drive. The city has been beautified and has a festive look about it going into the inauguration day.” Kangana, who never shies away from putting her views forward, is very excited about the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Lord Rama Lalla's idol. She has been continuously sharing photos of the newly built temple and photos and videos coming from the holy city of Ayodhya on her social media handles. Amitabh, Rajinikanth: Celebs Invited For Ram Temple's Pran Pratistha Ceremony Sharing her excitement for the historic day, Kangana told ANI on Saturday, "Those visiting Ayodhya Dham not only find peace of mind but also walk away with divine bliss while becoming better and wiser versions of themselves. It is our biggest and most-avowed dham, like the Vatican is for Christians. This city holds a lot of significance not just for the country but even beyond its shores. We are fortunate that Lord Ram has given us the wisdom to visit and worship him here."

Kangana Ranaut cleans Ayodhya’s Hanuman Temple ahead of Ram Temple inauguration

<p>Images have begun circulating on social media with claims that they show face of Ram Lalla idol inside the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. But there has not been an official confirmation on it till now.</p>

<p>The 51-inch idol was brought to the temple Wednesday night (Jan 17). It has been sculpted by Mysuru-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj, who has a family background of five generations of famous sculptors.</p>

<h2><strong>Idol placed in sanctum sanctorum on Thursday</strong></h2>

<p>The first photo of Ram Lalla idol was revealed on Thursday, showing its eyes covered with a yellow cloth. Union minister Piyush Goyal tweeted earlier today&nbsp;showing the idol.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">प्रभु श्री राम, विराजे अपने धाम🚩 <a href="https://t.co/5O9LUiHWJE">pic.twitter.com/5O9LUiHWJE</a></p>
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1748193983636070521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>As the idol was placed inside the sanctum sanctorum, Vedic Brahmins and revered Acharyas led worship ceremonies inside the sacred complex. The members of the Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra also took part in the ceremony. The idol was placed on Thursday afternoon, Arun Dixit, a priest at the temple, was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.</p>

<p><img alt="The idol of Ram Lalla being taken inside Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple complex through a crane, ahead of its consecration ceremony, in Ayodhya, on January 17. (PTI)" src="https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-img/img/2024/01/19/550x309/PTI01-18-2024-000007A-0_1705624432633_1705624459629.jpg" /></p>

<p>Dixit said the 'pradhan sankalp' was performed by Anil Mishra, a member of the trust.</p>

<p>“The idea behind the 'pradhan sankalp' is that the 'pratishtha' of Lord Ram is being done for the welfare of all, for the welfare of the nation, for the welfare of humanity, and also for those who contributed to this work,” PTI quoted him&nbsp;as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>Ayodhya all set for Jan 22 consecration</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the holy city of Ayodhya is all set for Jan 22 consecration, a much-awaited event where Indian PM Narendra Modi is expected to be present. A team of priests led by Lakshmikant Dixit will perform the main rituals. The temple will be opened for the public on Jan 23.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-refusing-ram-mandir-invitation-congress-leaders-rush-to-ayodhya-680431"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Ram Mandir: After party refuses invitation, local Congress leaders rush to Ayodhya</strong></a></p>

<p>Ahead of his participation in the sacred ceremony, the PM is strictly following a set of rules and rituals. The PM is said to be sleeping on the floor with only a blanket and has been only drinking coconut water.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ram Mandir Inauguration: Ram Lalla idol's first photo inside Ayodhya temple revealed</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier, he urged all Indians to light a diya in their house on January 22 to mark the grand opening of the Ram temple. A total of 11,000 guests from across the world are expected to participate in the grand event.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Images have begun circulating on social media with claims that they show face of Ram Lalla idol inside the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. But there has not been an official confirmation on it till now.

Images have begun circulating on social media with claims that they show face of Ram Lalla idol inside the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. But there has not been an official confirmation on it till now. The 51-inch idol was brought to the temple Wednesday night (Jan 17). It has been sculpted by Mysuru-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj, who has a family background of five generations of famous sculptors. Idol placed in sanctum sanctorum on Thursday The first photo of Ram Lalla idol was revealed on Thursday, showing its eyes covered with a yellow cloth. Union minister Piyush Goyal tweeted earlier today showing the idol. प्रभु श्री राम, विराजे अपने धाम🚩 pic.twitter.com/5O9LUiHWJE — Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) January 19, 2024 × As the idol was placed inside the sanctum sanctorum, Vedic Brahmins and revered Acharyas led worship ceremonies inside the sacred complex. The members of the Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra also took part in the ceremony. The idol was placed on Thursday afternoon, Arun Dixit, a priest at the temple, was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. Dixit said the 'pradhan sankalp' was performed by Anil Mishra, a member of the trust. “The idea behind the 'pradhan sankalp' is that the 'pratishtha' of Lord Ram is being done for the welfare of all, for the welfare of the nation, for the welfare of humanity, and also for those who contributed to this work,” PTI quoted him as saying. Ayodhya all set for Jan 22 consecration Meanwhile, the holy city of Ayodhya is all set for Jan 22 consecration, a much-awaited event where Indian PM Narendra Modi is expected to be present. A team of priests led by Lakshmikant Dixit will perform the main rituals. The temple will be opened for the public on Jan 23. Also read: Ram Mandir: After party refuses invitation, local Congress leaders rush to Ayodhya Ahead of his participation in the sacred ceremony, the PM is strictly following a set of rules and rituals. The PM is said to be sleeping on the floor with only a blanket and has been only drinking coconut water. Watch: Ram Mandir Inauguration: Ram Lalla idol's first photo inside Ayodhya temple revealed × Earlier, he urged all Indians to light a diya in their house on January 22 to mark the grand opening of the Ram temple. A total of 11,000 guests from across the world are expected to participate in the grand event. (With inputs from agencies)

Ram mandir: Ram Lalla idol face revealed? Pictures emerge on social media but no official confirmation

<p>As the Indian temple city of Ayodhya prepares itself for the grand consecration ceremony of Ram Temple, reports show that a ‘Maha Yagya’ or grand yajna will be held in the holy city from January 14 to January 25. Some 21,000 priests from Nepal will be conducting the yajna to establish 1,008 Narmadeshwar Shivlings.</p>

<p>The yajna will be held on the banks of the holy Saryu River under the watch of Atmanand Das Mahatyagi alias Nepali Baba. Nepali Baba hails from Ayodhya but is now settled in the neighbouring country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I do this yagya every year on the occasion of Makar Sankranti, but this year, we have scaled it up in view of the Ram Temple consecration ceremony," he was quoted as saying by the Times of India.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Security arrangements increased in Ayodhya</strong></p>

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<p>To accommodate the priests and devotees, a tent city has been established on 100 acres nearly 2 km away from the Ram Temple. Nepali Baba said arrangements are being made to accommodate at least 50,000 devotees per day and a feast will be organised for about 100,000 devotees per day.</p>

<h2><strong>Details about the grand Yajna</strong></h2>

<p>During the grand Yajna, the ‘havan’ will take place from January 17 with the chants of 24,000 verses of Ramayan. The havan will continue till January 25.</p>

<p>The 1,008 Shivlings will be anointed with panchamrit every day, with 1,100 couples performing havan while reciting Ram mantras in 100 ponds built at Yagyashala.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-ram-temple-who-is-saraswati-devi-lord-ram-devout-to-break-32-year-long-vow-of-silence-on-jan-22-678644"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Ayodhya Ram temple: Who is Saraswati Devi? Lord Ram devotee to break 32-year-long vow of silence on Jan 22</strong></a></p>

<p>The Times of India quoted Baba as saying that for the carving of Shivlings, stones have been brought from the Narmada river of Madhya Pradesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The carving work will be completed before January 14,” he added."I was born in phatik shi- la area of the temple town and I am a disciple of Tapasvi Narayan Das,” Atmanand Das Mahatyagi says, claiming that the Nepal King had named him 'Nepali Baba'.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As the Indian temple city of Ayodhya prepares itself for the grand consecration ceremony of Ram Temple, reports show that a ‘Maha Yagya’ or grand yajna will be held in the holy city from January 14 to January 25.

As the Indian temple city of Ayodhya prepares itself for the grand consecration ceremony of Ram Temple, reports show that a ‘Maha Yagya’ or grand yajna will be held in the holy city from January 14 to January 25. Some 21,000 priests from Nepal will be conducting the yajna to establish 1,008 Narmadeshwar Shivlings. The yajna will be held on the banks of the holy Saryu River under the watch of Atmanand Das Mahatyagi alias Nepali Baba. Nepali Baba hails from Ayodhya but is now settled in the neighbouring country. "I do this yagya every year on the occasion of Makar Sankranti, but this year, we have scaled it up in view of the Ram Temple consecration ceremony," he was quoted as saying by the Times of India. Watch: Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Security arrangements increased in Ayodhya × To accommodate the priests and devotees, a tent city has been established on 100 acres nearly 2 km away from the Ram Temple. Nepali Baba said arrangements are being made to accommodate at least 50,000 devotees per day and a feast will be organised for about 100,000 devotees per day. Details about the grand Yajna During the grand Yajna, the ‘havan’ will take place from January 17 with the chants of 24,000 verses of Ramayan. The havan will continue till January 25. The 1,008 Shivlings will be anointed with panchamrit every day, with 1,100 couples performing havan while reciting Ram mantras in 100 ponds built at Yagyashala. Also read: Ayodhya Ram temple: Who is Saraswati Devi? Lord Ram devotee to break 32-year-long vow of silence on Jan 22 The Times of India quoted Baba as saying that for the carving of Shivlings, stones have been brought from the Narmada river of Madhya Pradesh. “The carving work will be completed before January 14,” he added."I was born in phatik shi- la area of the temple town and I am a disciple of Tapasvi Narayan Das,” Atmanand Das Mahatyagi says, claiming that the Nepal King had named him 'Nepali Baba'. (With inputs from agencies)

Ayodhya Ram Temple: 21,000 priests to perform grand Yajna to establish 1,008 Shivlings

Some expectant mothers in India are requesting for caesarean section deliveries on Jan 22. That's the day when the consecration ceremony at the ram temple in Ayodhya would be taking place. Molly Gambhir tells you more

Gravitas: Why some Indian women want to give birth on Jan 22

The Ram Lalla idol will be placed at the sanctum-sanctorum of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 18. The idol of Lord Ram is 51-inches tall, weighs 1.5 tonnes.

Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Security arrangements increased in Ayodhya

In an attempt to fortify the temple town of Ayodhya housing the soon-to-be consecrated Ram Mandir, security agencies are planning to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) for surveillance, according to media reports.

Ayodhya to be under AI surveillance for Ram temple inauguration

Ram Mandir consecration: AI surveillance likely to be introduced to protect temple

<p>On Tuesday (Dec 19), Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Sonia Gandhi received invitations for the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust delegation, led by Nripendra Misra and other prominent figures, also extended invitations to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, H D Deve Gowda, and former President Ram Nath Kovind.</p>

<p>Manmohan Singh's declining health prevented the delegation from securing an appointment, while Sonia Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge are reportedly unlikely to attend. The grand ceremony, marking the culmination of the temple construction, has garnered attention from across the political spectrum.</p>

<p>Champat Rai, Secretary of the trust, shared insights into the carefully crafted guest list, featuring industrialists, scientists, actors, and army officers. Invitees range from the Dalai Lama and Baba Ramdev to industrialists Gautam Adani and Mukesh Ambani, along with iconic actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Rajinikanth, and Madhuri Dixit Nene. The list also includes key figures from the Tata Group and L&amp;T, as reported by the Indian Express.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/criminal-laws-in-india-death-penalty-for-mob-lynching-and-sedition-law-to-be-scrapped-5-major-points-671805">Also read |&nbsp;Criminal laws in India: Death penalty for mob-lynching, sedition law to be scrapped - 5 major points</a></p>

<h2><strong>Tentative schedule and elaborate rituals</strong></h2>

<p>The consecration ceremony is set to precede extensive rituals, including bathing the deity in the Sarayu river and a procession to major temples in Ayodhya. The schedule also involves state-wise allotment for temple visits after the ceremony, with special train provisions considered. Chief Ministers and Governors, however, are not on the invite list, as per sources.</p>

<p>Political leaders, including Sitaram Yechury, D Raja, Mayawati, and Arvind Kejriwal, have received invitations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing speculation about opposition leaders not being invited, a senior VHP leader clarified that key leaders across the political spectrum are part of the plan. While logistical constraints limit the crowd size, party presidents have been prioritized for invitations.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ayodhya's Ram Mandir (Temple) set to open for public from January 2024</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ayodhyas-ram-mandir-temple-set-to-open-for-public-from-january-2024-652711/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The ceremony, expected to draw roughly 8,000 attendees, will feature Prime Minister Narendra Modi, RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat, and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath as speakers. The guest list underscores a diverse representation, celebrating the cultural and national significance of the historic event.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


On Tuesday (Dec 19), Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Sonia Gandhi received invitations for the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22.

On Tuesday (Dec 19), Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Sonia Gandhi received invitations for the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust delegation, led by Nripendra Misra and other prominent figures, also extended invitations to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, H D Deve Gowda, and former President Ram Nath Kovind. Manmohan Singh's declining health prevented the delegation from securing an appointment, while Sonia Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge are reportedly unlikely to attend. The grand ceremony, marking the culmination of the temple construction, has garnered attention from across the political spectrum. Champat Rai, Secretary of the trust, shared insights into the carefully crafted guest list, featuring industrialists, scientists, actors, and army officers. Invitees range from the Dalai Lama and Baba Ramdev to industrialists Gautam Adani and Mukesh Ambani, along with iconic actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Rajinikanth, and Madhuri Dixit Nene. The list also includes key figures from the Tata Group and L&T, as reported by the Indian Express. Also read | Criminal laws in India: Death penalty for mob-lynching, sedition law to be scrapped - 5 major points Tentative schedule and elaborate rituals The consecration ceremony is set to precede extensive rituals, including bathing the deity in the Sarayu river and a procession to major temples in Ayodhya. The schedule also involves state-wise allotment for temple visits after the ceremony, with special train provisions considered. Chief Ministers and Governors, however, are not on the invite list, as per sources. Political leaders, including Sitaram Yechury, D Raja, Mayawati, and Arvind Kejriwal, have received invitations. Addressing speculation about opposition leaders not being invited, a senior VHP leader clarified that key leaders across the political spectrum are part of the plan. While logistical constraints limit the crowd size, party presidents have been prioritized for invitations. Also watch | Ayodhya's Ram Mandir (Temple) set to open for public from January 2024 The ceremony, expected to draw roughly 8,000 attendees, will feature Prime Minister Narendra Modi, RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat, and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath as speakers. The guest list underscores a diverse representation, celebrating the cultural and national significance of the historic event. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Ayodhya Trust extends invitations to Kharge, Sonia Gandhi for Ram temple consecration

The ‘Do Dhage Shri Ram Ke Liye’ initiative to weave a holy fabric for Shri Ram’s Idol in Ayodhya’s Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple was inaugurated in the presence of Smriti Irani; the Union Minister for Women and Child Development.

'Do Dhage Shri Ram Ke Liye' initiative in full swing for Lord Ram

<p>Over the years, many political parties have made fortunes over a Ram temple. Some by promising it, others by opposing it, still others by sitting on the fence, and still more by offering mediation. Over the last 4 decades, the Ayodhya temple issue has been a political genie for several political parties, especially the BJP which openly supported the temple agitation since its formation back in 1980.</p>

<p>In 2014, the BJP came to power by promising a Ram temple. As the Ayodhya files moved from one court to another, political parties kept the issue burning in the election rallies. Now, with the foundation stone laid, parties will have to rebuild their political narratives.</p>

<p>Now that the foundation stone for the temple has been laid, what is the road ahead? First and most importantly, the temple issue should unite and not divide India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly stressed that Lord Ram is for everyone, today.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-big-takeaways-from-the-ayodhya-ground-breaking-318445/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The temple will help in the development of Ayodhya. The state government has already made a special provision of 500 crores for an airport in Ayodhya. The city's old railway station is being re-developed at a cost of over 100 crores rupees. Another 85 crores has been kept aside for high-class infrastructure.</p>

<p>The temple will not just usher in connectivity, but also tourism, jobs and revenue. And finally, the Ram temple will help harness the international appeal of the Ramayan. The Hindu epic has been a global soft power for India. The story of Ramayan has been told in different versions in different parts of the world. Ramayan links countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Cambodia to India. The construction of a temple so closely linked to the epic will only help boost India's soft power in the region.</p>

<p>Why this is a seminal moment</p>

<p>1. A major shift in Indian politics: The temple issue was a potent mix of politics, religion and the law. A decades-old raison d’être for political forces has been dissolved. Those who whipped up passions in the name of Ram, those who fought elections opposing it, those who sat on the fence, will all have to find something else to do.</p>

<p>2. Secularism vs pseudo-secularism: the Ram temple movement forced India to introspect. Was secularism being used as a political fig leaf to hide minority appeasement? Was the state being unfair to the majority Hindus? What did secularism mean in the Indian context?</p>

<p>3. Hindus as a political force: The Ayodhya movement made Hindus politically relevant. Compare to Zionism and political Islam.</p>

<p>The road ahead:</p>

<p>1. Reconciliation: Modi won re-election bridging caste divides. He said Ram is for everyone. All legal parties have given positive statements. &nbsp; &nbsp; This temple should unite and not divide India. Come out of the realm of politics.</p>

<p>2. Development of the city of Ayodhya, infra push for the region, connectivity</p>

<p>3. Soft power/global connect: The Ramayan circuit, harness the international appeal of the Ramayan.</p>


Over the years, many political parties have made fortunes over a Ram temple. Some by promising it, others by opposing it, still others by sitting on the fence, and still more by offering mediation.

Over the years, many political parties have made fortunes over a Ram temple. Some by promising it, others by opposing it, still others by sitting on the fence, and still more by offering mediation. Over the last 4 decades, the Ayodhya temple issue has been a political genie for several political parties, especially the BJP which openly supported the temple agitation since its formation back in 1980. In 2014, the BJP came to power by promising a Ram temple. As the Ayodhya files moved from one court to another, political parties kept the issue burning in the election rallies. Now, with the foundation stone laid, parties will have to rebuild their political narratives. Now that the foundation stone for the temple has been laid, what is the road ahead? First and most importantly, the temple issue should unite and not divide India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly stressed that Lord Ram is for everyone, today. The temple will help in the development of Ayodhya. The state government has already made a special provision of 500 crores for an airport in Ayodhya. The city's old railway station is being re-developed at a cost of over 100 crores rupees. Another 85 crores has been kept aside for high-class infrastructure. The temple will not just usher in connectivity, but also tourism, jobs and revenue. And finally, the Ram temple will help harness the international appeal of the Ramayan. The Hindu epic has been a global soft power for India. The story of Ramayan has been told in different versions in different parts of the world. Ramayan links countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Cambodia to India. The construction of a temple so closely linked to the epic will only help boost India's soft power in the region. Why this is a seminal moment 1. A major shift in Indian politics: The temple issue was a potent mix of politics, religion and the law. A decades-old raison d’être for political forces has been dissolved. Those who whipped up passions in the name of Ram, those who fought elections opposing it, those who sat on the fence, will all have to find something else to do. 2. Secularism vs pseudo-secularism: the Ram temple movement forced India to introspect. Was secularism being used as a political fig leaf to hide minority appeasement? Was the state being unfair to the majority Hindus? What did secularism mean in the Indian context? 3. Hindus as a political force: The Ayodhya movement made Hindus politically relevant. Compare to Zionism and political Islam. The road ahead: 1. Reconciliation: Modi won re-election bridging caste divides. He said Ram is for everyone. All legal parties have given positive statements. This temple should unite and not divide India. Come out of the realm of politics. 2. Development of the city of Ayodhya, infra push for the region, connectivity 3. Soft power/global connect: The Ramayan circuit, harness the international appeal of the Ramayan.

With Ayodhya groundbreaking ceremony decades-old raison d’être for political forces dissolved

<p>The Ram temple in Ayodhya will not only give a boost to tourism but generate employment opportunities as well, Uttar Pradesh minister Shrikant Sharma said here on Sunday.</p>

<p>The minister said the news of the August 5 "bhoomi pujan" (ground-breaking ceremony) of the Ram temple by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has delighted devotees of Lord Ram across the globe.</p>

<p>The grand temple will not only give a boost to tourism but create jobs as well, he said.</p>

<p>The Uttar Pradesh government has started work to give a facelift to Ayodhya to draw in international tourists in large numbers, he said.</p>

<p>After a protracted legal battle, the Supreme Court had on November 9 last year paved the way for the construction of the Ram temple by a trust at the disputed site in Ayodhya, and directed the Centre to allot an alternative five-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a new mosque at a "prominent" place in the holy town in Uttar Pradesh.</p>

<p>Sharma expressed his gratitude to the Apex Court for delivering the long-awaited judgment on the Ram temple.</p>

<p>Since Prime Minister Modi could pave the way for a conducive environment, the judgment was delivered by the Apex Court, he claimed.<br />
The minister also appreciated the maturity of people of the country, especially residents of Uttar Pradesh, for maintaining harmony after the court verdict.</p>

<p>He also accused opposition parties of trying to create hurdles on the way of construction of the temple.</p>

<p>"The Ram temple in Ayodhya is being constructed as per the positive thinking and faith of the prime minister," Sharma, the minister for energy, additional sources of energy, said.</p>

<p>He said special programmes will be held in several parts of the state, including Mathura, to mark the Ram temple "bhoomi pujan" ceremony.&nbsp;</p>


The Ram temple in Ayodhya will not only give a boost to tourism but generate employment opportunities as well, Uttar Pradesh minister Shrikant Sharma said here on Sunday.

The Ram temple in Ayodhya will not only give a boost to tourism but generate employment opportunities as well, Uttar Pradesh minister Shrikant Sharma said here on Sunday. The minister said the news of the August 5 "bhoomi pujan" (ground-breaking ceremony) of the Ram temple by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has delighted devotees of Lord Ram across the globe. The grand temple will not only give a boost to tourism but create jobs as well, he said. The Uttar Pradesh government has started work to give a facelift to Ayodhya to draw in international tourists in large numbers, he said. After a protracted legal battle, the Supreme Court had on November 9 last year paved the way for the construction of the Ram temple by a trust at the disputed site in Ayodhya, and directed the Centre to allot an alternative five-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a new mosque at a "prominent" place in the holy town in Uttar Pradesh. Sharma expressed his gratitude to the Apex Court for delivering the long-awaited judgment on the Ram temple. Since Prime Minister Modi could pave the way for a conducive environment, the judgment was delivered by the Apex Court, he claimed. The minister also appreciated the maturity of people of the country, especially residents of Uttar Pradesh, for maintaining harmony after the court verdict. He also accused opposition parties of trying to create hurdles on the way of construction of the temple. "The Ram temple in Ayodhya is being constructed as per the positive thinking and faith of the prime minister," Sharma, the minister for energy, additional sources of energy, said. He said special programmes will be held in several parts of the state, including Mathura, to mark the Ram temple "bhoomi pujan" ceremony.

Ram temple will give a boost to tourism, create jobs: UP minister

<p>Wasim Rizvi, a member of Shia Waqf Board, on Saturday welcomed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-to-be-built-on-disputed-land-separate-plot-of-land-for-mosque-260935">Supreme Court verdict on Ayodhya-Babri Masjid land dispute case</a>, saying that the ownership rights of the disputed site have rightly been accorded to Hindus.</p>

<p>"The disputed site has been given to Hindus for Ram temple construction. I congratulate all Indians for this verdict," Rizvi told ANI.</p>

<p>"As the Supreme Court has accepted that the mosque was built by Mir Baqi, then the Shia Waqf Board should get five acres of land as Mir Baqi was a Shia. We will take legal advice over this. Sunnis have no right over it," he added.</p>

<p>The Supreme Court on Saturday directed the Central government to hand over the disputed site at Ayodhya for the construction of a temple and set up a trust for this.</p>

<p>The apex court also directed the government to give a suitable plot of land measuring five-acre to the Sunni Waqf Board.</p>

<p>A five-judge constitution bench presided by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justices SA Bobde, DY Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer passed the order on a batch of petitions against an order of the Allahabad High Court, which had trifurcated the site among Ramlalla Virajman, Sunni Central Waqf Board and Nirmohi Akhara.</p>

<p>A decade-long legal dispute was fought by right-wing party Hindu Mahasabha, a sect of Hindu monks Nirmohi Akhara and the Sunni Waqf Board over 2.77 acres of land in Ayodhya.</p>


Wasim Rizvi, a member of Shia Waqf Board, on Saturday welcomed the Supreme Court verdict on Ayodhya-Babri Masjid land dispute case, saying that the ownership rights of the disputed site have rightly been accorded to Hindus.

Wasim Rizvi, a member of Shia Waqf Board, on Saturday welcomed the Supreme Court verdict on Ayodhya-Babri Masjid land dispute case, saying that the ownership rights of the disputed site have rightly been accorded to Hindus. "The disputed site has been given to Hindus for Ram temple construction. I congratulate all Indians for this verdict," Rizvi told ANI. "As the Supreme Court has accepted that the mosque was built by Mir Baqi, then the Shia Waqf Board should get five acres of land as Mir Baqi was a Shia. We will take legal advice over this. Sunnis have no right over it," he added. The Supreme Court on Saturday directed the Central government to hand over the disputed site at Ayodhya for the construction of a temple and set up a trust for this. The apex court also directed the government to give a suitable plot of land measuring five-acre to the Sunni Waqf Board. A five-judge constitution bench presided by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justices SA Bobde, DY Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer passed the order on a batch of petitions against an order of the Allahabad High Court, which had trifurcated the site among Ramlalla Virajman, Sunni Central Waqf Board and Nirmohi Akhara. A decade-long legal dispute was fought by right-wing party Hindu Mahasabha, a sect of Hindu monks Nirmohi Akhara and the Sunni Waqf Board over 2.77 acres of land in Ayodhya.

Ownership rights of disputed site rightly accorded to Hindus: Shia Waqf Board

<p>Defending the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-dispute-centre-moves-to-supreme-court-seeks-excess-land-be-returned-to-ramjanambhoomi-nyas-193587"> government's plea in the Supreme Court</a> to return excess land acquired by it in Ayodhya to their original owners, the BJP on Tuesday said the Centre is not touching the disputed area.</p>

<p>Union Minister Prakash Javadekar told reporters it would be up to Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas what it does with the land returned to it and the government would not interfere in that.</p>

<p>The Centre on Tuesday moved the Supreme Court seeking its permission to return the excess or superfluous land around the disputed Ram Janambhoomi Babri Masjid site to original owners, including the Nyas.</p>

<p>"Government is not touching the disputed land," news agency PTI quoted Javadakar as saying at a press conference hours after the government filed its plea in the apex court.</p>

<p>Javadekar also said that "PM had clarified that people want temple but the matter is sub-judice and measures will be taken accordingly", adding that today's application is also a legal decision.</p>

<p>"Whatever legal measure is required, BJP will try for that. PM had clarified that people want temple the but matter is sub-judice and measures will be taken accordingly. Today's application is also a legal decision," he said.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">P Javadekar,BJP: BJP always maintained Ram temple be built on Ram janmabhoomi.Whatever legal measure is required,BJP will try for that. PM had clarified that ppl want temple but matter is sub-judice&amp;measures will be taken accordingly. Today's application is also a legal decision. <a href="https://t.co/pCC6fCsluE">pic.twitter.com/pCC6fCsluE</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1090206455855284225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p>Javadekar then attacked Congress party saying that it always "tries to block the process" and senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal's argument of allotting a date for hearing in the "matter only after July is evident to that."</p>

<p>"Congress always tries to block the process. Kapil Sibal's argument of allotting a date for hearing in the matter only after July'19 is evident to that. They don't believe in Ram. Affidavit submitted by the then Congress government on Ram Setu called it imaginary" Javadekar said.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">P Javadekar on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamTemple</a>: Congress always tries to block the process.Kapil Sibal's argument of allotting a date for hearing in the matter only after July'19 is evident to that.They don't believe in Ram.Affidavit submitted by the then Congress govt on Ram Setu called it imaginary <a href="https://t.co/yj3PuUqQ2w">pic.twitter.com/yj3PuUqQ2w</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1090208665544605697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p><em>(With inputs from news agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Defending the government's plea in the Supreme Court to return excess land acquired by it in Ayodhya to their original owners, the BJP on Tuesday said the Centre is not touching the disputed area.

Defending the government's plea in the Supreme Court to return excess land acquired by it in Ayodhya to their original owners, the BJP on Tuesday said the Centre is not touching the disputed area. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar told reporters it would be up to Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas what it does with the land returned to it and the government would not interfere in that. The Centre on Tuesday moved the Supreme Court seeking its permission to return the excess or superfluous land around the disputed Ram Janambhoomi Babri Masjid site to original owners, including the Nyas. "Government is not touching the disputed land," news agency PTI quoted Javadakar as saying at a press conference hours after the government filed its plea in the apex court. Javadekar also said that "PM had clarified that people want temple but the matter is sub-judice and measures will be taken accordingly", adding that today's application is also a legal decision. "Whatever legal measure is required, BJP will try for that. PM had clarified that people want temple the but matter is sub-judice and measures will be taken accordingly. Today's application is also a legal decision," he said. P Javadekar,BJP: BJP always maintained Ram temple be built on Ram janmabhoomi.Whatever legal measure is required,BJP will try for that. PM had clarified that ppl want temple but matter is sub-judice&measures will be taken accordingly. Today's application is also a legal decision. pic.twitter.com/pCC6fCsluE — ANI (@ANI) January 29, 2019 × Javadekar then attacked Congress party saying that it always "tries to block the process" and senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal's argument of allotting a date for hearing in the "matter only after July is evident to that." "Congress always tries to block the process. Kapil Sibal's argument of allotting a date for hearing in the matter only after July'19 is evident to that. They don't believe in Ram. Affidavit submitted by the then Congress government on Ram Setu called it imaginary" Javadekar said. P Javadekar on #RamTemple: Congress always tries to block the process.Kapil Sibal's argument of allotting a date for hearing in the matter only after July'19 is evident to that.They don't believe in Ram.Affidavit submitted by the then Congress govt on Ram Setu called it imaginary pic.twitter.com/yj3PuUqQ2w — ANI (@ANI) January 29, 2019 × (With inputs from news agencies)

Government not touching disputed land: BJP on Centre's plea in Supreme Court on Ayodhya

<p>With the Supreme Court constituting a five-member bench under the Chief Justice of India Justice Ranjan Gogoi, it is expected that a decision on the Ram Janmabhoomi temple construction is very much in sight. The NDA government has already requested the apex court for a day-to-day hearing of the pending appeals against the Allahabad High Court judgement, on a three-way split of the disputed land.</p>

<p>In recent months, the temple movement has stepped up pressure on the central government for an early solution. This is bound to create ripples on the political front as the 2019 Lok Sabha polls are round the corner.</p>

<p>The Centre enacting the 10 per cent reservation for the economically backward sections of society has consolidated the BJP base among the segments so far deprived of the benefit of reservation. This is bound to have an impact on the Ram Janmabhoomi movement also since it has taken care of the grievance of a large chunk of the BJP support base who are at the forefront of the Ayodhya agitation. &nbsp;</p>

<p>After over a quarter of a century of the demolition of the disputed structure at Ayodhya’s holy site, a historic and dramatic resolution looks possible if the stakeholders agree to a suggestion mooted by the Shia Waqf Board, the real title-holder of the premise, to relocate the mosque to a nearby Muslim area which would facilitate the building of a magnificent Ram Temple. This was announced in August 2017, by the Shia Waqf Board. The apex court may take cognisance of this.</p>

<p>The Hindus welcomed the offer in the court. But a section of Muslims under the hardline Sunni Board and the Babri Masjid Action Committee has reacted adversely.</p>

<p>The offer of the Muslim community, even if it is coming from only a faction, is the result of the inclusive policy of the Narendra Modi government. Muslims feel safe enough and part of the mainstream for the first time since Independence. This is also the first time since the dispute went to court that the title-holder party or, for that matter, anybody from the Muslim community, has proposed a shifting of the mosque from the disputed land. This in itself is ground-breaking, thus opening a new chapter in Hindu-Muslim relations. This can become the starting point for a negotiated settlement.</p>

<p>The Shia offer has three major aspects: First, technically, only the Shia community has a legal right on the property. The demolished Babri Masjid, though there was no namaz held there for many decades, was a Shia shrine, historically built on a temple that existed till the 14th Century. Second, this is the first time any Muslim individual or outfit is making an offer to relocate the mosque. Third, the starting point for any dialogue has to be the admission of the Hindu claim that the site in discussion is the Ram Janmabhoomi and sacred to Hindus. No solution can come unless these basic premises are brought on the table.</p>

<p>There is yet another important aspect to the Shia Waqf Board suggestion. It has identified, and without mincing words declared, that the hardline sections in the Babri Action Committee are not interested in an amicable solution and are trying to vitiate the social fabric. “It is under the dominant control of hardliners, fanatics and non-believers in peaceful co-existence, who have absolutely no stakes in the case”, it said. Though the Sunni Waqf Board has also petitioned the Supreme Court as a party in the dispute, they have no locus standi as far as the title deed is concerned. The Allahabad HC in its 2011 judgement declared as such. The Allahabad HC had suggested a three-way division of the site with one portion going to the Shia Waqf Board, while accepting the historic Hindu belief that the place in question is Ram Janmabhoomi. The two other parts were given to the Hindu organisation.</p>

<p>The appeal against the high court verdict has been pending in the Supreme Court ever since. In early 2017, responding to a review petition by Dr Subramanian Swamy, the apex court had asked the involved parties to find a solution through mutual consent. Ever since both Hindu and Muslim leaders have been constantly exchanging notes with Swamy and VHP leader Champat Rai taking the initiative.</p>

<p>At least 200 rounds of negotiations have taken place between the two sides since the issue became hot in the late 80s. A very serious attempt at negotiated settlement was held when Chandrashekhar was Prime Minister in the early 90s. Then historians, archaeologists and scholars from both sides involved themselves in quoting chapter and verse to prove their side. Dr BB Lal, Dr SP Gupta, Dr BR Grover, and many such luminaries then played a role in verifying the historicity of the Hindu claim. Historians like Dr Irfan Habib argued for the other side. In the end, archaeology, history and faith proved the Hindu claim to be much stronger. But the Babri Committee was unrelenting.</p>

<p>What the Shia Board has now done in August 2017 was to call the bluff of this Committee. Mahant Nritya Gopal Das of the Janmabhoomi Nyas had expressed guarded satisfaction over the Shia Board proposal. Subramanian Swamy and the VHP are more exuberant with the development. The Shia Board had suggested a two-judge committee with members of the opposing sides and experts work on the nitty-gritty of the negotiated settlement. Now that the apex court has taken up a fast track process this will help.</p>

<p>With the BJP in power in Uttar Pradesh and at the Centre, the hope of paving the way for the grand temple in Ayodhya is on the ascent. It may not be possible to satisfy all the segments and spectrum of opinion at any stage. The moot point is will the apex court settle it before 2019 polls?</p>

<p><em>(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-laying-a-strong-foundation-2707231">original article</a>)</em></p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)</em></p>


With the Supreme Court constituting a five-member bench under the Chief Justice of India Justice Ranjan Gogoi, it is expected that a decision on the Ram Janmabhoomi temple construction is very much in sight.

With the Supreme Court constituting a five-member bench under the Chief Justice of India Justice Ranjan Gogoi, it is expected that a decision on the Ram Janmabhoomi temple construction is very much in sight. The NDA government has already requested the apex court for a day-to-day hearing of the pending appeals against the Allahabad High Court judgement, on a three-way split of the disputed land. In recent months, the temple movement has stepped up pressure on the central government for an early solution. This is bound to create ripples on the political front as the 2019 Lok Sabha polls are round the corner. The Centre enacting the 10 per cent reservation for the economically backward sections of society has consolidated the BJP base among the segments so far deprived of the benefit of reservation. This is bound to have an impact on the Ram Janmabhoomi movement also since it has taken care of the grievance of a large chunk of the BJP support base who are at the forefront of the Ayodhya agitation. After over a quarter of a century of the demolition of the disputed structure at Ayodhya’s holy site, a historic and dramatic resolution looks possible if the stakeholders agree to a suggestion mooted by the Shia Waqf Board, the real title-holder of the premise, to relocate the mosque to a nearby Muslim area which would facilitate the building of a magnificent Ram Temple. This was announced in August 2017, by the Shia Waqf Board. The apex court may take cognisance of this. The Hindus welcomed the offer in the court. But a section of Muslims under the hardline Sunni Board and the Babri Masjid Action Committee has reacted adversely. The offer of the Muslim community, even if it is coming from only a faction, is the result of the inclusive policy of the Narendra Modi government. Muslims feel safe enough and part of the mainstream for the first time since Independence. This is also the first time since the dispute went to court that the title-holder party or, for that matter, anybody from the Muslim community, has proposed a shifting of the mosque from the disputed land. This in itself is ground-breaking, thus opening a new chapter in Hindu-Muslim relations. This can become the starting point for a negotiated settlement. The Shia offer has three major aspects: First, technically, only the Shia community has a legal right on the property. The demolished Babri Masjid, though there was no namaz held there for many decades, was a Shia shrine, historically built on a temple that existed till the 14th Century. Second, this is the first time any Muslim individual or outfit is making an offer to relocate the mosque. Third, the starting point for any dialogue has to be the admission of the Hindu claim that the site in discussion is the Ram Janmabhoomi and sacred to Hindus. No solution can come unless these basic premises are brought on the table. There is yet another important aspect to the Shia Waqf Board suggestion. It has identified, and without mincing words declared, that the hardline sections in the Babri Action Committee are not interested in an amicable solution and are trying to vitiate the social fabric. “It is under the dominant control of hardliners, fanatics and non-believers in peaceful co-existence, who have absolutely no stakes in the case”, it said. Though the Sunni Waqf Board has also petitioned the Supreme Court as a party in the dispute, they have no locus standi as far as the title deed is concerned. The Allahabad HC in its 2011 judgement declared as such. The Allahabad HC had suggested a three-way division of the site with one portion going to the Shia Waqf Board, while accepting the historic Hindu belief that the place in question is Ram Janmabhoomi. The two other parts were given to the Hindu organisation. The appeal against the high court verdict has been pending in the Supreme Court ever since. In early 2017, responding to a review petition by Dr Subramanian Swamy, the apex court had asked the involved parties to find a solution through mutual consent. Ever since both Hindu and Muslim leaders have been constantly exchanging notes with Swamy and VHP leader Champat Rai taking the initiative. At least 200 rounds of negotiations have taken place between the two sides since the issue became hot in the late 80s. A very serious attempt at negotiated settlement was held when Chandrashekhar was Prime Minister in the early 90s. Then historians, archaeologists and scholars from both sides involved themselves in quoting chapter and verse to prove their side. Dr BB Lal, Dr SP Gupta, Dr BR Grover, and many such luminaries then played a role in verifying the historicity of the Hindu claim. Historians like Dr Irfan Habib argued for the other side. In the end, archaeology, history and faith proved the Hindu claim to be much stronger. But the Babri Committee was unrelenting. What the Shia Board has now done in August 2017 was to call the bluff of this Committee. Mahant Nritya Gopal Das of the Janmabhoomi Nyas had expressed guarded satisfaction over the Shia Board proposal. Subramanian Swamy and the VHP are more exuberant with the development. The Shia Board had suggested a two-judge committee with members of the opposing sides and experts work on the nitty-gritty of the negotiated settlement. Now that the apex court has taken up a fast track process this will help. With the BJP in power in Uttar Pradesh and at the Centre, the hope of paving the way for the grand temple in Ayodhya is on the ascent. It may not be possible to satisfy all the segments and spectrum of opinion at any stage. The moot point is will the apex court settle it before 2019 polls? (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Ayodhya dispute: Laying a strong foundation

<p>Former Maharashtra chief minister and Congress leader Ashok Chavan on Saturday criticised Shiv Sena for not being serious about Ayodhya temple matter and added that the name of the temple is being taken as the 2019 general elections are inching closer, reported news agency ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reacting on Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray`s upcoming visit to Ayodhya, Chavan told&nbsp;on Saturday, "Uddhav Thackeray Uddhav Thackeray is giving new statements every other day. Shiv Sena has never been serious on Ayodhya matter. Ayodhya name is being taken again and again because elections are approaching, he said&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Upset with the delay in the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Thackeray, on October 18, announced that he would visit the city on November 25.</p>

<p>"We warn everyone who thinks that Hindutva has died. We are still alive. We are saddened that Ram Temple has not been constructed yet. I will visit Ayodhya on November 25," Thackeray had said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut`s recent remark that the Supreme Court cannot solve the Ram Temple issue because it is a matter of faith, Chavan said&nbsp;''Our country functions on the basis of the Constitution. Whatever decision will be taken by courts will be followed by the entire nation.''&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Uddhav Thackeray is giving new statements every other day. Shiv Sena has never been serious on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ayodhya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ayodhya</a> matter. Ayodhya name is being taken again&amp;again because elections are approaching: Ashok Chavan,Congress,on Uddhav Thackeray’s statement ‘I'll visit Ayodhya on 25 Nov’. (20.10) <a href="https://t.co/AAUDVC8nSC">pic.twitter.com/AAUDVC8nSC</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1053772542220087297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Former Maharashtra chief minister and Congress leader Ashok Chavan on Saturday criticised Shiv Sena for not being serious about Ayodhya temple matter and added that the name of the temple is being taken as the 2019 general elections are inching closer, reported news agency ANI.

Former Maharashtra chief minister and Congress leader Ashok Chavan on Saturday criticised Shiv Sena for not being serious about Ayodhya temple matter and added that the name of the temple is being taken as the 2019 general elections are inching closer, reported news agency ANI. Reacting on Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray`s upcoming visit to Ayodhya, Chavan told on Saturday, "Uddhav Thackeray Uddhav Thackeray is giving new statements every other day. Shiv Sena has never been serious on Ayodhya matter. Ayodhya name is being taken again and again because elections are approaching, he said "Upset with the delay in the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Thackeray, on October 18, announced that he would visit the city on November 25. "We warn everyone who thinks that Hindutva has died. We are still alive. We are saddened that Ram Temple has not been constructed yet. I will visit Ayodhya on November 25," Thackeray had said. On senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut`s recent remark that the Supreme Court cannot solve the Ram Temple issue because it is a matter of faith, Chavan said ''Our country functions on the basis of the Constitution. Whatever decision will be taken by courts will be followed by the entire nation.'' Uddhav Thackeray is giving new statements every other day. Shiv Sena has never been serious on #Ayodhya matter. Ayodhya name is being taken again&again because elections are approaching: Ashok Chavan,Congress,on Uddhav Thackeray’s statement ‘I'll visit Ayodhya on 25 Nov’. (20.10) pic.twitter.com/AAUDVC8nSC — ANI (@ANI) October 20, 2018 ×

Uddhav Thackeray has never been serious on Ayodhya issue: Ashok Chavan

<p><em>WION travelled to Ayodhya on December 6, 2017 - the 25th anniversary of the Babri mosque demolition - and visited the makeshift Ram Temple that now exists on the disputed site. With cameras barred, WION brings to you this first person account from Ground Zero.</em></p>

<p>There he was, wrapped in bright and shiny clothes, adorned with jewellery, sitting pretty inside the fireproof tarpaulin tent which has been his home for the past 25 years now. There he was, the prince of Ayodhya, the darling of devotess, the man known as the &ldquo;maryada purushottama&rdquo;. There he was, a God who now, almost helplessly, lies imprisoned in a makeshift temple in his own birthplace.</p>

<p>Imprisoned. That&#39;s the word that stayed with me from the moment I passed through the first frisking point, walked through a narrow, serpentine passageway protected by walls and a roof made of wire mesh (made so narrow on purpose so that it can only accommodate a single queue of visitors), encountering two more frisking points on the way, to the point when I finally could get a glimpse of Ram Lalla, or Baby Ram.</p>

<p>The sight of gun-wielding personnel from India&#39;s Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) just outside the tent housing Baby Ram&#39;s idol inside that tent was surreal, to put it mildly. As if the God himself was under threat and required protection.</p>

<p>Reaching him is not easy. The first security barricade is almost a kilometer away from the 2.7 acre site where Ram Lalla or Baby Ram now resides. Policemen from Uttar Pradesh&#39;s Provincial Armed Constabulary manning this barricade are not too finicky. All they are interested is in ensuring that no four-wheeler passes through this barricade. The second barricade comes after 500 meters and is located just next to the palace of Dashrath - Lord Ram&#39;s father. Located at what is called Bada Sthan (Big Place) this barricade is just 500 hundred meters away from the first frisking point.</p>

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<p>The palace of Lord Ram&#39;s father, King Dashrath in Ayodhya (WION)</p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Devotees and visitors to the makeshift temple are not allowed to wear belts, carry any electronic gadgets or even a pen beyond the first frisking point. A wallet, some cash and &ldquo;prasad&rdquo; is all that is allowed in, that too, after three stages of frisking. The moment the policemen find out that you are from the media, the checking becomes even more stringent with security personnel even insisting on shoes being removed for checking. The ban on photography and videography is painted on walls at regular intervals.</p>

<p>&ldquo;Please beware of the monkeys inside. They may snatch your prasad,&rdquo; warn many policemen standing guard inside the disputed compound. The sight of policemen carrying colorful slingshots appears amusing to begin with but it takes only a few moments to realize that those slingshots are probably their only protection against the constant assaults from an army of monkeys which roams in and around Ground Zero.</p>

<p>After clearing the second frisking, the walk through the narrow wire mesh passageway, with monkeys dangling on the outside of the enclosed passageway, feels like one long walk inside a never-ending cage. Probably nowhere in the world would one have to negotiate such a fortress-like security and heavy presence of armed forces to go visit a deity.</p>

<p>On any given day, the security personnel don&#39;t allow people in the cramped queue inside that narrow wire-meshed passageway to halt for more than 7-8 seconds at the spot from where the Ram idol is seen. The fact that I visited the makeshift Ram Temple in Ayodhya on December 6, 2017 - which marked the 25th anniversary of the events of 1992 - probably was a stroke of luck. With just a couple of hours to go for the temple to close for the day, I not just escaped those long queues which are a daily feature here but also managed to stand before the Ram Lalla idol for a good five minutes before finally making my way out.</p>

<p>The priest sitting on the other side of the wire-mesh was a good-humoured man. He told me that if I could just take a step to my left and look diagonally inside the tent, I&#39;ll be able to see an idol of Lord Hanuman as well. He was right and seemed pleased when I told him that I could actually see the Hanuman idol. I asked him if he was the only priest on duty there to which he replied that there are four priests who serve the temple in shifts.</p>

<p>Watching me stand before the temple for almost five minutes, a CRPF personnel finally asked me move, his discomfort at my long halt there almost palpable. A sizeable number of the CRPF personnel guarding the innermost security ring around the makeshift temple comprises of women. Having witnessed an attempt by six heavily armed terrorists to storm the makeshift temple in 2005, the security forces clearly are taking no chances and want adequate women personnel to keep a watch on female visitors to the shrine.</p>

<p>As I made my way out, trying to soak in what I had just experienced, a plethora of thoughts and questions started flooding my mind.</p>

<p>Would a God need protection? Would a God approve of what happened in 1992? Would any God want people to fight people believing in a different God? Would a God want his devotees to be frisked at multiple locations before they can reach his temple? Would a God want to be a party to a land dispute? Would a God even care about a temple or a mosque for that matter?</p>

<p><strong>Watch WION&#39;s special segment</strong></p>

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<p>This segment brings to you news on 25th anniversary of Babri Mosque demolition. Watch this clip to know more. (WION)</p>
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WION travelled to Ayodhya on December 6, 2017 - the 25th anniversary of the Babri mosque demolition - and visited the makeshift Ram Temple that now exists on the disputed site. With cameras barred, WION brings to you this first person account from Ground Zero.

WION travelled to Ayodhya on December 6, 2017 - the 25th anniversary of the Babri mosque demolition - and visited the makeshift Ram Temple that now exists on the disputed site. With cameras barred, WION brings to you this first person account from Ground Zero. There he was, wrapped in bright and shiny clothes, adorned with jewellery, sitting pretty inside the fireproof tarpaulin tent which has been his home for the past 25 years now. There he was, the prince of Ayodhya, the darling of devotess, the man known as the “maryada purushottama”. There he was, a God who now, almost helplessly, lies imprisoned in a makeshift temple in his own birthplace. Imprisoned. That's the word that stayed with me from the moment I passed through the first frisking point, walked through a narrow, serpentine passageway protected by walls and a roof made of wire mesh (made so narrow on purpose so that it can only accommodate a single queue of visitors), encountering two more frisking points on the way, to the point when I finally could get a glimpse of Ram Lalla, or Baby Ram. The sight of gun-wielding personnel from India's Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) just outside the tent housing Baby Ram's idol inside that tent was surreal, to put it mildly. As if the God himself was under threat and required protection. Reaching him is not easy. The first security barricade is almost a kilometer away from the 2.7 acre site where Ram Lalla or Baby Ram now resides. Policemen from Uttar Pradesh's Provincial Armed Constabulary manning this barricade are not too finicky. All they are interested is in ensuring that no four-wheeler passes through this barricade. The second barricade comes after 500 meters and is located just next to the palace of Dashrath - Lord Ram's father. Located at what is called Bada Sthan (Big Place) this barricade is just 500 hundred meters away from the first frisking point. The palace of Lord Ram's father, King Dashrath in Ayodhya (WION) × Devotees and visitors to the makeshift temple are not allowed to wear belts, carry any electronic gadgets or even a pen beyond the first frisking point. A wallet, some cash and “prasad” is all that is allowed in, that too, after three stages of frisking. The moment the policemen find out that you are from the media, the checking becomes even more stringent with security personnel even insisting on shoes being removed for checking. The ban on photography and videography is painted on walls at regular intervals. “Please beware of the monkeys inside. They may snatch your prasad,” warn many policemen standing guard inside the disputed compound. The sight of policemen carrying colorful slingshots appears amusing to begin with but it takes only a few moments to realize that those slingshots are probably their only protection against the constant assaults from an army of monkeys which roams in and around Ground Zero. After clearing the second frisking, the walk through the narrow wire mesh passageway, with monkeys dangling on the outside of the enclosed passageway, feels like one long walk inside a never-ending cage. Probably nowhere in the world would one have to negotiate such a fortress-like security and heavy presence of armed forces to go visit a deity. On any given day, the security personnel don't allow people in the cramped queue inside that narrow wire-meshed passageway to halt for more than 7-8 seconds at the spot from where the Ram idol is seen. The fact that I visited the makeshift Ram Temple in Ayodhya on December 6, 2017 - which marked the 25th anniversary of the events of 1992 - probably was a stroke of luck. With just a couple of hours to go for the temple to close for the day, I not just escaped those long queues which are a daily feature here but also managed to stand before the Ram Lalla idol for a good five minutes before finally making my way out. The priest sitting on the other side of the wire-mesh was a good-humoured man. He told me that if I could just take a step to my left and look diagonally inside the tent, I'll be able to see an idol of Lord Hanuman as well. He was right and seemed pleased when I told him that I could actually see the Hanuman idol. I asked him if he was the only priest on duty there to which he replied that there are four priests who serve the temple in shifts. Watching me stand before the temple for almost five minutes, a CRPF personnel finally asked me move, his discomfort at my long halt there almost palpable. A sizeable number of the CRPF personnel guarding the innermost security ring around the makeshift temple comprises of women. Having witnessed an attempt by six heavily armed terrorists to storm the makeshift temple in 2005, the security forces clearly are taking no chances and want adequate women personnel to keep a watch on female visitors to the shrine. As I made my way out, trying to soak in what I had just experienced, a plethora of thoughts and questions started flooding my mind. Would a God need protection? Would a God approve of what happened in 1992? Would any God want people to fight people believing in a different God? Would a God want his devotees to be frisked at multiple locations before they can reach his temple? Would a God want to be a party to a land dispute? Would a God even care about a temple or a mosque for that matter? Watch WION's special segment This segment brings to you news on 25th anniversary of Babri Mosque demolition. Watch this clip to know more. (WION) ×

The imprisoned Lord: First-person account from Ayodhya

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