RSS Chief Highlights True Independence Through Ram Temple

On January 13, 2025, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed the importance of celebrating the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya as “Pratishtha Dwadashi,” signifying Bharat's "true independence" from historical invasions. He emphasized that the temple’s consecration represents a culmination of efforts to reclaim India's cultural identity and spiritual ethos, which remains vital for national pride and unity. Bhagwat criticized historical invasions aimed at undermining India's cultural values and linked the Ram Mandir movement to a broader national revival. He advocated for economic progress rooted in cultural revival, celebrating the temple as a potent symbol of resilience and collective heritage.

advtanmoy 16/01/2025 4 minutes read

14th January 2025

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Calls for Celebrating Ram Temple Consecration as ‘Pratishtha Dwadashi,’ Marks ‘True Independence’ of Bharat

Consecration of the Ram Temple marked India’s “true independence”

In a thought-provoking address in Indore on Monday (13th January), Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat emphasized the significance of the Ram Temple consecration date in Ayodhya, urging it to be celebrated as “Pratishtha Dwadashi,” symbolizing Bharat’s “true independence” after centuries of foreign invasions.

Speaking at a ceremony where he presented the prestigious ‘National Devi Ahilya Award’ to Champat Rai, the general secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, Bhagwat reflected on the spiritual, cultural, and historical importance of the Ram Mandir movement. He stated that the movement wasn’t launched in opposition to anyone but to revive the country’s “self” or “swa,” enabling Bharat to reclaim its identity and role as a guiding force for the world.

“True Independence” Beyond 1947

Bhagwat remarked that while India achieved political independence from British rule on August 15, 1947, the vision of a nation rooted in its own cultural and spiritual ethos was yet to be realized. He pointed out that the Indian Constitution was framed in alignment with the nation’s self-vision, yet it wasn’t fully implemented in that spirit.

The consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024—marked on the Hindu calendar as Paush Shukla Paksha Dwadashi—represents, in his view, the culmination of a centuries-long struggle to reestablish Bharat’s cultural self-respect and independence after enduring repeated invasions that sought to destroy its spiritual foundations.

Ram Temple: A Symbol of Unity and Revival

Addressing the audience, Bhagwat highlighted that the Ram Mandir movement was not merely about the construction of a temple but an awakening of national pride and unity. “During the temple consecration ceremony, the entire country participated with pure hearts, without any discord,” he noted. Bhagwat also underscored that the ideals represented by Lord Ram, Krishna, and Shiva are deeply ingrained in the essence of India, transcending religious boundaries.

He criticized historical invasions that targeted temples as an attempt to erode the cultural and spiritual core of Bharat. According to Bhagwat, the Ram Mandir movement succeeded despite opposition because it was a fight to uphold this core. “The movement was about awakening the ‘self’ of Bharat,” he said, adding that economic and social progress must be rooted in cultural and spiritual revival.

Economic Progress and Cultural Identity

Recalling conversations from the 1980s, Bhagwat addressed skepticism about prioritizing the Ram Mandir over livelihood concerns. “I used to ask, despite slogans like ‘Garibi Hatao’ (eradicate poverty), where was India in the 1980s compared to nations like Israel and Japan? India’s path to prosperity lies through the doorway of the Ram Temple,” he asserted.

Champat Rai, receiving the award, dedicated it to the countless known and unknown contributors of the Ram Mandir movement. Describing the temple as a symbol of national pride, Rai expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play a role in its construction.

National Devi Ahilya Award and Memorial Announcement

The award ceremony, organized by the Indore-based Shri Ahilyotsav Samiti, recognized Rai for his contributions to the Ram Mandir movement. Former Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, president of the organization, announced plans to build a grand memorial in honor of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, celebrating her legacy as an iconic ruler who upheld dharma and justice.

A Secular Tradition Rooted in Spirituality

Reflecting on a past meeting with former President Pranab Mukherjee, Bhagwat shared Mukherjee’s assertion that India’s Constitution is one of the most secular in the world, rooted in a 5,000-year-old tradition of inclusivity. Bhagwat linked this tradition to the teachings of Lord Ram, Krishna, and Shiva, emphasizing that their values form the foundation of Bharat’s identity and should guide its future.

A Call for National Celebration

As the nation moves toward the second anniversary of the Ram Temple consecration, Bhagwat’s call to commemorate it as “Pratishtha Dwadashi” resonates as an appeal for a renewed sense of national pride and cultural unity. With the temple standing as a testament to Bharat’s resilience and self-determination, the RSS chief’s message seeks to inspire a collective celebration of the country’s heritage and values.