ALL preparations for the Pran Pratistha ceremony of the idol of Shri Ram lalla (the child form of Lord Ram) are in full swing. The term Pran Pratistha refers to the sacred process of invoking divine consciousness into an idol through rituals and procedures prescribed in the ancient Vedic scriptures. Hindus believe that after performing the rituals of consecration, an idol is no longer an idol; it becomes a live form of the God, fully imbibing his consciousness and divinity. This is a momentous occasion for millions of devotees of Lord Ram who have been eagerly awaiting the Lord’s homecoming to Ayodhya, his birthplace. A sense of joy, excitement and happiness is palpable across the country.
The issue of Ram Mandir has occupied a pivotal position in the national discourse for years now. Now that the dispute is settled and the grand temple is nearing its completion, it is natural to ponder what this means for us, ordinary Indians. Is this just another temple in a country where, as such, there is no dearth of temples? Or is it much more than that? Honestly, these are questions where it’s almost impossible to present objective arguments. These are meant to be personal choices. But since I have keenly followed developments pertaining to the temple, I do have some perspectives. In my view, this entire journey to Ram Mandir gives an interesting insight on what India and Indians are made of—our values, virtues, beliefs and character.
Denne historien er fra February 01, 2024-utgaven av Outlook.
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Denne historien er fra February 01, 2024-utgaven av Outlook.
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The 'Invisible' Dalits
The debate over sub-categorisation of castes is likely to shape the political discourse in the upcoming state elections
Caste Census: To Conquer Or Conserve?
The caste census is generating heated debate, but even its most ardent proponents are not able to articulate a plan about how to use the resulting data
THE FATEFUL COMEDY
Actor-director Rajat Kapoor talks about adapting Fyodor Dostoevsky's The Brothers Karamazov into a Hindi play
Mad Hatter
When a leader takes off his topi and holds it in his hands while appealing for votes, it signals something extraordinary
Circle Within Circles
The caste question in Muslims.
Backward March
The Maratha reservation question may continue to mire the next government in the state
The 69% Exception
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United Indifference
The perils of tweaking tribal identities
Two Nations, Two Destinies
The widely differing balance of power between the military and civilian leadership in India and Pakistan has significantly impacted democracy in the two countries
Crème de la Crème
The mainstream society thinks reservations are against right to equality. It’s high time they are seen in the context of right to justice.