New Delhi: LK Advani, a veteran leader of the BJP, recently expressed that the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya was destined long before it happened. Advani, who played a crucial role in the controversial ‘rath yatra’ from Gujarat’s Somnath to Ayodhya in 1990, shared his perspective in an article for the magazine ‘Rashtradharma,’ set to be released on Monday.
Advani, who regards himself as the “charioteer” of the yatra, believes that fate had already decided the existence of a grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya during the yatra. He sees the yatra itself as the ‘chariot’ worthy of worship, with its culmination being the demolition of the Babri Masjid on December 6, 1992. Advani stated that he felt he was just a charioteer and that the main message was the yatra, which he hopes will inspire all Indians to embrace the qualities of Lord Ram.
In the article, Advani congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his former aide, whom he referred to as “the devotee chosen by Lord Ram to renovate his temple,” for overseeing the construction of the temple. The consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple, scheduled for January 22, will be attended by Advani, marking his return to Ayodhya.
Advani described the ‘rath yatra’ as the most decisive and transformative event of his political career, providing him with an opportunity to rediscover India and himself. He acknowledged the support received during the yatra, especially from unknown villagers who expressed their emotions and dreams of a Ram Temple.
While there were uncertainties about Advani’s attendance at the temple event, VHP leader Alok Kumar confirmed on his behalf. The event, organized by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, will witness the installation of the Ram Lalla idol on January 22, with PM Modi and various Hindu seers present.
Despite invitations to opposition leaders, including Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Sonia Gandhi, both declined, accusing the BJP of politicizing the temple and religious sentiments ahead of the upcoming general election.
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