The country witnessed the grand inauguration of the Ayodhya Ram Temple, which marks the culmination of a 500-year dispute. From its inception in 1528 to the historic ceremony in 2024, this article navigates the intricate timeline that shaped the journey towards the construction of the revered temple.
1528: Babri Masjid’s Origin Ignites The Conflict
In 1528, Mughal commander Mir Baqi laid the roots of the Ram Temple movement by constructing the Babri Masjid. The belief that the mosque was erected upon the ruins of a Hindu temple ignited enduring debates. This historical narrative set the foundation for centuries of conflicts over the sacred site.
1751: Maratha Claim Sets The Stage For Contention
Writer Balbir Punj notes in his book that the Marathas sought control of Ayodhya, Kashi, and Mathura in 1751, foreshadowing contentions over religious sites. This claim added complexity to the Ayodhya dispute.
1858: Nihang Sikhs’ Attempt To Claim Birthplace
In 1858, Nihang Sikhs tried to claim Babri Masjid as Lord Ram’s birthplace, marking the early struggle for control over the disputed site. This incident set the tone for future conflicts and legal battles.
1885: Raghubar Das’ Legal Claim Keeps The Dispute Alive
Raghubar Das, a Nirmohi Akhara priest, filed the first legal suit in 1885, seeking permission to build a temple on the mosque’s outer courtyard. Though dismissed, it set a legal precedent, ensuring the dispute remained alive.
1949: ‘Ram Lalla’ Idols Ignite Legal Battles
The placement of ‘Ram Lalla‘ idols inside Babri Masjid on December 22, 1949, intensified religious sentiments and triggered legal battles over ownership. This event marked the initiation of courtroom disputes.
1950-1959: Legal Suits Multiply As Tensions Escalate
The following decade witnessed a surge in legal suits, with Nirmohi Akhara seeking rights to worship idols and the Sunni Central Waqf Board asserting possession. Tensions escalated as the legal battles continued.
1986-1989: Controversial Opening Of Babri Masjid Locks
In 1986, during the Rajiv Gandhi-led Congress government, the controversial opening of Babri Masjid locks allowed Hindus to worship inside. This decision heightened tensions and became pivotal in the Ram Janmabhoomi narrative.
1990-1992: Rath Yatra, Demolition Attempt, And Infamous Demolition
L.K. Advani’s Rath Yatra in 1990 aimed to mobilize support for the temple. Despite a failed attempt to demolish the mosque, it marked a turning point. Despite court assurances, the infamous demolition in 1992 changed Indian politics forever.
2019-2024: Supreme Court Verdict To Inauguration
The Supreme Court’s historic 2019 judgment awarded the disputed land to Hindus for the Ram Temple. PM Modi laid the foundation stone in 2020, and on January 22, 2024, he led the consecration ceremony, officially inaugurating the Ayodhya Ram Temple.
The 500-year timeline of the Ayodhya Ram Temple encapsulates a saga of religious beliefs, legal battles, and political mobilization. The construction of Babri Masjid in 1528 marked the genesis of a historical saga. Each era left an indelible mark on Ayodhya’s narrative, from legal battles to controversial events. The inauguration of the grand temple in 2024 signifies a monumental milestone. As the temple stands tall, it embodies the endurance of beliefs and the intricate interplay of history, law, and spirituality.
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