The upcoming ‘Pran Pratishta’ ceremony of Sri Ram’s murti (idol) in Ayodhya, marking the inauguration of the Ram Mandir, has drawn an eclectic mix of over 7,000 invitees, showcasing the global, political, and cultural significance of the event. The list includes individuals who have played diverse roles in the Mandir Movement, reflecting a broad spectrum of perspectives and contributions.
Global Representation: Oncologist Who Advocated for Modi’s Visa
Among the international guests, over 100 individuals from 53 countries, including the US, UK, Europe, Australia, and Africa, have been invited. Notably, Bharat Barai, an oncologist, has secured a spot on the distinguished guest list. Barai played a pivotal role in lobbying for the clearance of Narendra Modi’s visa in 2014, a crucial time when the current Prime Minister faced a 10-year visa ban by the US. Barai’s support for the BJP is evident, having invited key members of the party to his US home multiple times and actively working to strengthen India’s relationship with Israel.
Babri Masjid Petitioner and Muslim Karsevak Invited
The inclusivity of the ceremony is highlighted by the invitation extended to Iqbal Ansari, a former litigant in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid case. Ansari, who supported the Babri Masjid in the legal battle, has transitioned to actively supporting the construction of the Ram Mandir. His presence signifies an effort to bridge historical divides and unite people in the spirit of the temple’s construction.
Adding another layer of inclusivity, a Muslim karsevak, Mohammed Habib, who participated in the Ram Mandir agitation, has also received an invitation. Despite his active role in the Mandir Movement, Habib plans to watch the ceremony on TV, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s suggestion to avoid a rush in Ayodhya on January 22.
TV Icons and Spiritual Leaders: Ram and Sita of DD’s Ramayana, Dalai Lama, and Others
The guest list extends beyond political and global figures, featuring iconic TV personalities Arun Govil and Dipika Chikhlia, who played Ram and Sita in Doordarshan’s Ramayan. Spiritual leaders such as the Dalai Lama, Mata Amritanandamayi, Baba Ramdev, and Jaggi Vasudev will also be in attendance.
Wide-ranging Attendees: Business Tycoons, Bollywood, and Cricketers
Business magnates Mukesh Ambani, Gautam Adani, and Ratan Tata have received invitations, emphasising the diverse backgrounds of the attendees. The entertainment industry will be well-represented with actors like Randeep Hooda, Lin Laishram, Jackie Shroff, Tiger Shroff, and Dhanush joining the historic event. The presence of cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli adds a sporting touch to the occasion.
Political Dilemma: Congress and Opposition’s Stand
The political spectrum is also reflected in the guest list, with senior Congress leaders, including Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, and Manmohan Singh, receiving invitations. However, the Congress has declared the temple inauguration as an “RSS and BJP event,” opting not to attend. Other opposition parties, including the CPM and reportedly the Trinamool Congress, are facing a dilemma over participating in the event, expressing concerns over the potential political implications.
Elaborate Ceremony Details: Schedule and Chief Guests
The detailed invitations sent out by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust include a main invitation card, a ‘Pran Pratishtha’ program card, and a booklet outlining the Ram Janmabhoomi Movement. The ceremony card specifies the schedule, with the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ puja starting at 11:30 am on January 22, followed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address at 12:30 pm. Chief guests include PM Modi, RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat, UP Governor Anandiben Patel, UP CM Yogi Adityanath, and temple trust president Mahant Nritya Gopal Das.
As anticipation builds for the historic event, the diverse and inclusive guest list reflects the multifaceted nature of the Ram Mandir inauguration, bringing together people from different walks of life, ideologies, and nations.
