In a monumental declaration, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has proposed that the date of the Ram temple consecration in Ayodhya should be commemorated as “Pratishtha Dwadashi.” This, he asserts, marks the “true independence” of Bharat, signifying the nation’s revival after centuries of external domination.

Ram Temple Movement: A Journey Through Challenges

The Ram temple in Ayodhya stands as a powerful emblem of cultural and spiritual resurgence. According to the Hindu calendar, the consecration ceremony occurred on the Dwadashi of the ‘Shukla Paksha’ in the Paush month—January 22, 2024, in the Gregorian calendar. Bhagwat emphasized that this day should be celebrated annually as it symbolizes the restoration of Bharat’s “self” or “swa,” a profound concept embodying the nation’s intrinsic identity.

In his address on January 13, 2025, Bhagwat reflected on the essence of independence. He noted that while India achieved political freedom from British rule on August 15, 1947, the country’s governance framework was not entirely aligned with its cultural ethos. The creation of the written Constitution was a significant milestone, but Bhagwat argued that its execution did not fully resonate with Bharat’s spiritual vision.

The RSS chief highlighted that the Ram temple movement transcended religious boundaries, aiming instead to awaken the nation’s cultural essence. “This movement was initiated to revive the ‘self’ of Bharat so that it could inspire the world,” Bhagwat remarked.

Significance of Pratishtha Dwadashi

The Ram Mandir movement, which culminated in the grand temple’s consecration, faced numerous obstacles. Bhagwat acknowledged that some forces were determined to prevent the temple’s construction at Lord Ram’s birthplace. However, the perseverance of countless individuals and organizations led to the realization of this dream.

Champat Rai, general secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, received the National Devi Ahilya Award for his pivotal role in the movement. Accepting the award, Rai dedicated it to all who contributed to the cause, both known and unsung. “The temple represents the pride of Hindustan, and I was merely a medium for its construction,” Rai stated.

Bhagwat emphasized the unity and harmony witnessed during the Ayodhya consecration ceremony. He highlighted that people across the nation observed the event with “pure minds,” showcasing the cultural inclusivity and collective spirit of Bharat.

According to Bhagwat, the ideals embodied by Lord Ram, Krishna, and Shiva are integral to India’s identity. These principles transcend religious boundaries, forming the core of the nation’s values.

Responding to past criticisms of the Ram Mandir movement, Bhagwat recounted questions posed in the 1980s about prioritizing temple construction over economic concerns. His rebuttal was poignant: “India’s livelihood path goes through the entrance of the Ram temple,” he asserted, underlining the spiritual foundation of holistic development.

Bhagwat also shared a revealing conversation with former President Pranab Mukherjee. When the issue of ‘Ghar Wapsi’ was debated in Parliament, Mukherjee affirmed that India’s Constitution was the most secular in the world. He remarked that the nation’s 5,000-year-old tradition exemplified secularism, a legacy rooted in the teachings of Lord Ram, Krishna, and Shiva.

Honoring Contributions to Indian Society

The National Devi Ahilya Award, presented to Rai, is an annual accolade recognizing significant contributions to society. Instituted by the Indore-based Shri Ahilyotsav Samiti, the award has previously honored luminaries such as Nanaji Deshmukh, Vijaya Raje Scindia, Raghunath Anant Mashelkar, and Sudha Murty.

Sumitra Mahajan, the former Lok Sabha Speaker and president of the Shri Ahilyotsav Samiti, announced plans for a grand memorial dedicated to Devi Ahilyabai. This initiative aims to familiarize future generations with the life and values of the iconic ruler of the Holkar dynasty.

The consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya represents more than a religious milestone; it signifies the resurgence of Bharat’s cultural and spiritual identity. Declaring this day as “Pratishtha Dwadashi” underscores its profound importance in India’s history. As the nation moves forward, the teachings of Lord Ram and the principles of unity and inclusivity will continue to guide its path toward holistic progress.