Mandal with kamandal: Ayodhya’s grand event sets the stage for inclusive Ram temple celebrations

New Delhi: To organize a second “Ram Mandir movement”, the Sangh Parivar has carefully prepared a guest list for the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, which includes representatives of over 150 communities from across the country. This strategically prepared list aims to promote social harmony and unity on caste lines within the Hindu society.

The guest list of 4,000 saints and 2,500 eminent personalities gives priority to the inclusion of marginalized sections, ensuring that sub-castes are well represented. Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) emphasizes the importance of this event as a symbol of diversity and inclusivity of the entire country.

The approach is in line with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s (RSS) “Samajik Samarasata” campaign launched last year, which counters opposition narratives on caste issues. By emphasizing “Kamandal” over “Mandal”, the Sangh aims to present a united Hindu society by reducing caste divisions.

The ceremony, set to include ten individuals from the poorest families contributing Rs 100 each to the Ram temple fund, underlines the widespread participation in the construction of the temple. The VHP’s careful planning echoes its commitment to unifying Hindu society, reminiscent of historic events like the Shila Pujan in 1984.

VHP spokesperson Vinod Bansal highlighted the thoughtfulness in the selection of saints from different communities, highlighting the universality of the temple event. The guest list includes worshipers of both Sakar (God with form) and Nirakar (God without form), reflecting the diversity within the Hindu faith.

Moreover, the VHP’s efforts extend beyond Ayodhya, aiming to generate national enthusiasm. Initiatives include an Akshat distribution campaign, encouraging Hindus worldwide to participate and deploying Sangh workers to ensure that people from towns and villages gather at nearby temples for synchronized aarti during the celebrations.

The VHP’s collaboration with the Residents Welfare Association and other groups to install five lakh LED screens in temples shows a commitment to inclusive celebrations, mirroring Sangh’s “One Village, One Temple” campaign.

With meticulous planning, the Sangh Parivar aims to inaugurate an important religious building, strengthen social bonds, and foster a sense of unity and pride among the diverse Hindu community.