Ayodhya, one of the most sacred cities in India, is home to the much-revered Ram Mandir, a temple dedicated to Lord Ram, one of the most important deities in Hinduism. The history of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is deeply intertwined with India’s cultural, religious, and political landscape, spanning several centuries.
Ancient History of Ayodhya
Ayodhya is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram, as mentioned in the Hindu epic Ramayana. According to scriptures, King Dasharatha, the ruler of Ayodhya, was blessed with four sons, of whom Lord Ram was the eldest. The city has been a major center of Hindu worship for thousands of years and holds immense religious significance.
The Original Ram Mandir and its Destruction
The exact timeline of the construction of the original Ram Mandir is unclear, but historical records suggest that a grand temple existed at the site centuries ago. However, in 1528, during the Mughal era, Babur, the first emperor of the Mughal dynasty, ordered the construction of a mosque at the same site. This mosque came to be known as the Babri Masjid.
Medieval and British Era (1528 – 1947)
- 16th Century: The construction of the Babri Masjid by Babur led to tensions, with Hindu groups claiming the site as Ram Janmabhoomi (birthplace of Lord Ram).
- 18th Century: Maratha rulers attempted to reclaim the site for Hindus but were unsuccessful.
- 1859: The British administration built a fence around the disputed site, allowing separate worship areas for Hindus and Muslims.
The Dispute Begins (1850s – 1900s)
The dispute over the land began in the 1850s, when Hindu devotees claimed that the Babri Masjid was built over the ruins of the original Ram Mandir. In 1859, the British administration divided the premises, allowing Hindus to worship outside the mosque while Muslims prayed inside.
Legal Battles and Religious Clashes (1949 – 1992)
- 1949: An idol of Lord Ram was mysteriously placed inside the Babri Masjid, leading to increased religious tensions. The government locked the premises, preventing further conflicts.
- 1950s – 1980s: Several court cases were filed by Hindu and Muslim organizations, seeking control over the disputed land.
- 1986: A court order allowed Hindus to offer prayers inside the premises.
- 1992: On December 6, 1992, a large mob of Hindu activists demolished the Babri Masjid, leading to widespread communal riots across India.
The Legal Battle and Supreme Court Verdict
Following the demolition, several legal petitions were filed, demanding justice and the construction of a Ram temple at the site. The case remained in court for nearly three decades, with both Hindu and Muslim groups presenting their claims.
- 2010: The Allahabad High Court divided the disputed land into three parts, allocating portions to Hindus, Muslims, and a Hindu sect.
- 2019: On November 9, 2019, the Supreme Court of India delivered a historic verdict, ruling that the entire 2.77-acre disputed land would be handed over to Hindus for the construction of Ram Mandir. A separate 5-acre plot was allocated to Muslims to build a mosque.
Construction of the Grand Ram Mandir
- 2020: The foundation stone of the Ram Mandir was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 5, 2020.
- 2021-2023: Construction of the temple progressed rapidly, with thousands of artisans and engineers working on the project.
- 2024: The inauguration of the Ram Mandir is set to take place on January 22, 2024, marking a historic moment for millions of devotees.
Architectural Marvel of Ram Mandir
The newly constructed Ram Mandir is an architectural masterpiece, built using traditional Nagara-style temple architecture. Some key features include:
- Height: 161 feet
- Width: 250 feet
- Number of Pillars: 360 intricately carved pillars
- Number of Floors: Three
- Main Deity: Lord Ram in childhood form (Ram Lalla)
Significance of Ram Mandir
The completion of the Ram Mandir is not just a religious milestone but also a symbol of India’s cultural and historical heritage. It represents:
- Faith and Devotion: Millions of Hindus believe that the temple reinstates their religious pride and devotion to Lord Ram.
- Architectural Brilliance: A blend of ancient Hindu architectural techniques with modern engineering.
- Tourism and Economy: The temple is expected to boost tourism in Ayodhya, benefiting the local economy.
FAQs About Ram Mandir in Ayodhya
1. When was the foundation stone for Ram Mandir laid?
The foundation stone was laid on August 5, 2020, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
2. When is the Ram Mandir inauguration?
The grand inauguration of Ram Mandir is scheduled for January 22, 2024.
3. What is the significance of Ram Mandir?
Ram Mandir is believed to be built on the birthplace of Lord Ram, making it one of the holiest sites for Hindus.
4. Who designed the Ram Mandir?
The Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust oversees the construction, and the temple is designed in Nagara-style architecture.
5. How big is the Ram Mandir?
The temple stands at 161 feet tall with three floors and around 360 intricately carved pillars.
6. How can one visit the Ram Mandir?
Devotees can visit the temple in Ayodhya via train, road, or air, with Ayodhya’s airport and railway station well-connected to major cities.
Conclusion
The Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is more than just a place of worship; it is a historical, cultural, and spiritual landmark for Hindus worldwide. With its grand inauguration in 2024, it marks the fulfillment of a centuries-old dream and a new chapter in India’s religious and historical journey.
