January 11, 2025 (Saturday), marks the onset of the annual Pratishtha Dwadashi celebrations in Ayodhya, a significant spiritual event commemorating the first anniversary of Shri Ram Lalla’s Pran Pratishtha. Spanning from January 11 to 13, this gathering will draw devotees, saints, and seekers from across India, embodying devotion and pride in Hindu Sanatan Dharma.
The Historic Pran Pratishtha of Shri Ram Lalla
On January 22, 2024 (Kurma Dwadashi of Paush Shukla Paksha), the Pran Pratishtha Mahotsav was conducted with great enthusiasm, marking a historic moment in Ayodhya’s spiritual revival. This year, the anniversary aligns with Paush Shukla Dwadashi as per the Hindu lunar calendar, reinforcing its deep-rooted connection to Vedic principles and traditions.
Significance of Pratishtha Dwadashi
This celebration transcends festivity, symbolising Dharma, devotion, and cultural unity. Shri Ram Lalla epitomises truth, righteousness, and sacrifice, inspiring millions to lead virtuous lives. It serves as a reminder of the Hindu community’s resilience and their commitment to Sanatan Dharma amidst decades of struggle and oppression.
Struggles and Atrocities in the Fight for Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir
The journey to Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla was fraught with relentless attacks on Hindus, desecration of their religious sentiments, and unparalleled sacrifices. The Ram Janmabhoomi movement witnessed countless individuals dedicating their lives to reclaim the sacred birthplace of Lord Ram.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi did Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla on January 22, 2024, symbolising the culmination of decades-long efforts marred by struggles and atrocities. The event was a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice and restoration of Hindu pride.
Key Contributors to the Ram Janambhoomi movement
1. Mahant Raghubar Das (1885): Filed a plea in Faizabad District Court seeking permission to construct a canopy outside the disputed structure, initiating the Ram Mandir movement.
2. Gopal Singh Visharad (1950): The first plaintiff to approach the Supreme Court for the right to worship at the Janmabhoomi temple.
3. Nirmohi Akhara (1959): Representing a Hindu sect, they claimed custodianship of the disputed site and sought the right to manage the temple.
4. Ashok Singhal (1936-2015): A pivotal figure in the movement, he spearheaded the Vishwa Hindu Parishad’s campaigns, including the Dharam Sansad, which galvanized efforts to reclaim the sacred site.
5. L. K. Advani (1990): A prominent political face of the movement, Advani’s Rath Yatra mobilized volunteers nationwide, igniting a mass movement.
6. Kalyan Singh (1932-2021): The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister during the Babri Masjid demolition on December 6, 1992, played a controversial yet instrumental role. Despite legal undertakings, Singh’s tenure witnessed the dismantling of the disputed structure by kar sevaks.
7. Uma Bharti: A Hindutva leader who emerged as a fiery voice for the Ram Janmabhoomi cause, advocating relentlessly for the construction of the Ram temple.
8. Murli Manohar Joshi: As BJP president during 1991-1993, Joshi delivered influential speeches during the demolition and remained a steadfast advocate for the temple.
9. Atal Bihari Vajpayee (1924-2018): The former Prime Minister’s speech on December 5, 1992, and the establishment of the Ayodhya cell reflected his involvement in the movement.
10. Baba Lal Das: Appointed as chief priest of the Ram Lalla idols in 1981, he opposed communal violence and was tragically assassinated in 1993 for his vocal stance.
Sacrifices of Kar Sevaks and Unsung Heroes
The movement’s success was built on the blood and sacrifices of scores of kar sevaks who laid down their lives.
➢ Kothari Bandhu (Ram Kumar and Sharad Kumar): Killed for their devotion during the movement.
➢ Swami Vamdev, SC Dikshit, Moropant Pingle, and Mahant Avaidyanath: Influential figures who kept the spirit of the movement alive.
The sacrifices of Ramesh Pandey, Setharam Mali, Mahavir Prasad, and countless others remain etched in the history of this struggle. These individuals faced persecution, violence, and martyrdom for their commitment to restoring the birthplace of Shri Ram.
The Atrocities and Struggles
For decades, Hindus endured persecution and marginalization in their quest for justice. The Babri Masjid stood as a symbol of oppression, with the site being denied its sanctity. The movement was riddled with legal battles, political opposition, and brutal crackdowns on kar sevaks. Despite these hardships, the resilience of the Hindu community paved the way for the construction of the temple.
A Tribute to Unity and Devotion
The consecration of Shri Ram Lalla marks a new chapter in Ayodhya’s history, symbolising the triumph of faith, unity, and justice. As the nation gathers to celebrate Pratishtha Dwadashi, let us honour the sacrifices of those who gave their lives for this cause and renew our commitment to Sanatan Dharma.
