Sri Sri Ravishankar responds to Shankaracharya row: Lord Ram did Pran Pratishtha sans temple

In the midst of the ongoing controversy surrounding the criticism by Jyotishmath Shankaracharya Avimukteshwarananda Saraswati regarding the upcoming Ram Temple event, spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravishankar weighed in on the matter. The Shankaracharya had expressed reluctance to attend the January 22 event, citing concerns about installing Lord Ram's idol in an under-construction temple.

Indian Guru and spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravishankar addressed the criticism by highlighting an instance from mythology, stating that Lord Ram himself performed prana pratishta of a Shivling at Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu without the presence of a temple. He emphasized that there are provisions allowing the construction of the temple after the prana pratishta, and Lord Ram's act serves as a precedent.

Shankaracharya's remarks have stirred a fresh controversy, with the Opposition questioning the government's decision to inaugurate the temple hastily. The concerns raised include the installation of the idol in an incomplete temple, prompting discussions about the timing of the ceremony.

Temples built over time

Sri Sri Ravishankar provided historical context by citing examples of temples like Madurai and Tirupati Balaji, which were initially small and later expanded by kings. He framed the construction of the Ram Temple as a correction of a historical wrong that occurred 500 years ago.

Expressing a sense of celebration and enthusiasm across the country, Sri Sri Ravishankar highlighted the significance of the event as a dream coming true for many after a wait of five centuries. He characterized it as a correction of historical injustices and a momentous occasion for the nation.

Opposition allegations

In response to the criticism from the opposition, particularly NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) MLA Jitendra Awhad, who raised concerns about the ceremony taking place in an incomplete temple, Sri Sri Ravishankar did not directly address the allegations of caste bias but stressed the correction of historical wrongs as the primary focus.

The controversy continues to unfold, with discussions surrounding the timing, symbolism, and adherence to scriptures shaping the narrative leading up to the January 22 consecration ceremony.