The History of Ram Janmabhoomi and Ram Mandir
The history of Ram Janmabhoomi (meaning “Rama’s birthplace”) and Ram Mandir (meaning “Rama temple”) is deeply woven into the religious, political, and social fabric of India. The history of Ram Janmabhoomi and the Ram Mandir is deeply intertwined with religious beliefs, historical events, and legal disputes. It’s a narrative marked by centuries of belief, archaeological debate, and communal tension, culminating in the construction of the grand Ram Mandir on the disputed site. Here is a brief overview:
1. Ancient Significance:
- Ayodhya, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India, is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama according to Hindu truthology. The Ram Janmabhoomi site is traditionally considered the birthplace of Lord Rama.
2. Babri Masjid Construction:
- In the 16th century, during the Mughal era, a mosque known as the Babri Masjid was built on the site. It is believed to have been constructed by Mir Baqi, a commander of the Mughal emperor Babur, in the 1520s.
3. Dispute Emerges:
- The dispute over the site arose in the 19th century when Hindus claimed that the Babri Masjid was built after demolishing a pre-existing Hindu temple at the birthplace of Lord Rama.
4. Demolition of Babri Masjid (1992):
- The Babri Masjid was demolished on December 6, 1992, by a large crowd of Kar sevaks. This event led to communal tensions and violence across India.
5. Legal Battles:
- The demolition sparked legal battles, with both Hindu and Muslim groups staking claim to the site. The legal dispute reached the courts, and the title suit over the land became a contentious issue.
6. The Ayodhya Verdict (2019):
- In November 2019, the Supreme Court of India delivered a landmark verdict, ruling that the entire disputed land be handed over to a trust to build the Ram Mandir. The court also directed the government to allot an alternative 5-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for the construction of a mosque.
7. Ram Mandir Construction Begins (2020):
- Following the Supreme Court verdict, the construction of the Ram Mandir officially began in Ayodhya in August 2020. The temple is designed to be a grand structure with unique architectural features.
8. Grand Opening of Ram Mandir is Scheduled for 22nd January, 2024
The grand opening of the Ram Mandir, scheduled for January 22nd, 2024, undoubtedly marks a momentous occasion for India and the Hindu community worldwide.
A Culmination of Decades-Long Aspiration:
The Ram Mandir, standing tall in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, represents the culmination of a years-long aspiration for many Hindus who believe this to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, a revered deity in Hinduism. The temple’s construction comes after the Supreme Court of India’s 2019 verdict awarding the disputed land to a trust tasked with overseeing the temple’s construction.
Significance of the Grand Opening:
The grand opening is expected to be a grand affair, drawing millions of devotees and dignitaries from across India and beyond. It signifies:
- Fulfillment of a long-held religious desire: For many Hindus, the opening of the Ram Mandir would represent the realization of a decades-long desire to see a temple dedicated to Lord Rama erected at the site they believe to be his birthplace.
- Symbol of cultural and religious revival: The Ram Mandir is seen by some as a symbol of Hindu cultural and religious revival in India. The temple’s construction and grand opening could further invigorate these sentiments.
- Boost to religious tourism: Ayodhya has long been a pilgrimage site for Hindus. The opening of the Ram Mandir is expected to significantly boost religious tourism to the city, potentially impacting its economy and infrastructure development.
The History of Ram Janmabhoomi and Ram Mandir is a reason for existence of VHP & Political BJP today
Written by Rajdeep Chauhan & Pulse Business
