23-January-2024-Special-Article

RAM TEMPLE

The inauguration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya on 22nd January 2024 marked the culmination of a 200-year-old saga that left an indelible impact on India’s socio-political landscape. Designed in the Nagara style of temple architecture, the Ram temple stands as a symbol of cultural and religious significance.

Timeline of Ram Janmabhoomi Movement:

• Origin (1751): Marathas sought control over Ayodhya, Kashi, and Mathura after assisting the Nawab of Awadh in defeating local forces in the Doab Region.
• Clash Near Babri Masjid (1855): Violent clash near Babri Masjid resulted in the capture of Janmasthan by Hindus.
• Placement of Ram Lalla Idol (1949): Idol of Ram Lalla was placed in the mosque, sparking demands for a grand temple.
• Legal Battles (1980s): Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) initiated a movement for the ‘liberation’ of Ram Janmabhoomi. Babri Masjid locks opened in 1986, leading to legal battles and significant events in subsequent years.
• Demolition of Babri Masjid (1992): On 6th December 1992, a mob demolished the Babri Masjid, leading to political repercussions and legal proceedings.
• Legal Verdicts (2010, 2019): Allahabad High Court verdict in 2010 divided the land, and in 2019, the Supreme Court awarded the entire disputed land to Hindu petitioners.
• Culmination (2020): On 5th August 2020, the Prime Minister performed the Shilanyas of the Ram temple, establishing the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
• Inauguration (2024): On 22nd January 2024, the Ram temple, built in Nagara style, was inaugurated, completing the historic journey.

Uniqueness of Ram Temple:

• Traditional Architecture: The 3-storey temple is built in the Nagara style, using pink sandstone from Mirzapur and the hills of Bansi-Paharpur (Rajasthan).
• Temple Dimensions: Spans 250 feet in width and 161 feet in height, covering an expansive 71 acres with 390 pillars, 46 doorways, and 5 mandaps.
• Features Inside: Main Garbh Griha holds idols of Ram Lalla, accompanied by mandaps like Rang Mandap & Nritya Mandap.
• Innovative Anointment Tradition: Anointment on every Ram Navami using mirrors and lenses focusing the sun’s rays on Ram Lalla’s idol without electricity.
• Sculptor’s Contribution: Idol of Ram Lalla, crafted by Mysuru sculptor Arun Yogiraj, stands at 51 inches and consecrated in a special ceremony.
• Durability and Symbolism: No iron used in construction, designed to endure for at least a millennium.

Nagara Style of Temple Architecture:

Emerged in the 5th century CE during the late Gupta period in northern India, distinct from the Dravida style of the south.

          Distinguished Features: Towering Shikhara over Garbha Griha, raised plinth, circumambulatory passage, and mandapas.

Five Modes: Valabhi, Phamsana, Latina, Shekhari, and Bhumija, each with unique characteristics.

Mains question:

1. Discuss the key milestones in the Ram Janmabhoomi Movement, highlighting the legal, cultural, and architectural dimensions. Also, elucidate the uniqueness of the Ram temple, focusing on its traditional Nagara style, dimensions, and innovative features. (150 WORDS).