The arrival of unbroken grains of rice, a letter, and a photo of the Ram temple from Ayodhya has evoked a deep emotional response from Mohammad Habib, a 70-year-old former ‘kar sevak’ and active member of the BJP. Speaking from Mirzapur, Habib expressed the sentiment of receiving the ‘akshata,’ a symbol that carries profound significance for him.
He recalled his involvement as a ‘kar sevak’ during the period from December 2, 1992, when he stayed in Ayodhya for about five days alongside his group of individuals. This period coincided with the demolition of the Babri mosque on December 6, 1992, leading to nationwide upheaval.
Reflecting on the protracted legal battle, Habib emphasized the significance of the Supreme Court’s order on November 9, 2019, which paved the way for the construction of the Ram temple and the allocation of an alternative five-acre plot for a mosque in Ayodhya.
Anticipation mounts as the consecration ceremony for the Ram temple, scheduled for January 22, draws nearer. Habib expressed his sense of anticipation and described it as a historic day after years of perseverance and struggle. His commitment to the cause spans over three decades, and he keenly awaits the ceremony, set to be broadcasted on television.
The sentiment echoed in Ayodhya extends beyond religious lines. In Varanasi, social worker Nazneen Ansari and her associate Najma expressed joy and unity over the forthcoming consecration. Najma shared their plan to distribute the ‘Jyoti’ of Lord Shri Ram to both Hindu and Muslim families in Kashi, encouraging them to keep the flame alight until January 22. Their sentiment emphasizes the shared ancestral bond with Lord Ram.
Nazneen Ansari reflected on a time marred by tensions and fear when mentioning the Ram temple was unsettling. However, she now finds happiness in witnessing the temple’s construction, marking a significant change in sentiments.
For Iqbal Ansari of Ayodhya, who represented the Muslim side in the Ram temple-Babri mosque dispute, the ceremony holds personal significance. He received an official invitation and will attend the consecration, underscoring the region’s tradition of peaceful coexistence.
Expressing appreciation for the invitation, Ansari highlighted Ayodhya’s harmony and welcomed the developments occurring in the temple town. He emphasized the positive impact of the Supreme Court’s judgment, noting that it brought closure to contentious issues.
Ganga Singh, representing the RSS, conveyed Iqbal Ansari’s enthusiasm and respect upon receiving the invitation, affirming his intent to attend the ceremony. The anticipation and preparations for the consecration signify a historic and transformative moment for Ayodhya.
Dhairya Saraswat