Why four Highest Gurus of Sanatan Hindu Dharma will not participate in Ram Temple Pranpratistha?

The top spiritual leaders in Sanatan Hindu Dharma, Jagatguru Shankaracharyas, won’t be part of the ceremony to inaugurate the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya. 

Upendra Bharti & Shaunak Roy Choudhury | HENB | Ayodhya & New Delhi | Jan 7, 2024:: The consecration of Ramlala in new Ram Mandir  is scheduled for January 22 in Ayodhya, with intensive preparations underway. The Uttar Pradesh government and Ayodhya administration are striving to make the ceremony grand, with the first floor of the Ram temple already prepared and undergoing decoration. However, the involvement of Prime Minister Modi as the chief host in the Pran Pratishtha program has stirred concerns among Senior Seers. They feel that this places him at the forefront of the event, potentially undermining the traditional rituals dictated by the Sanatan Shastras. Despite the general excitement for the Ram Temple Consecration, the absence of Shankaracharyas is a point of contention among devout Hindus.

Jagatguru Shankaracharya Swami Shri Nischalananda Saraswati of Purvaamnaya Govardhanmath Puripeeth has declined participation in the Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha program, expressing a notable stance. His refusal stems from the belief that the government’s endeavor is not centered around constructing a “sacred temple” but, in his words, “a tomb.” This characterization suggests a perception that the project lacks the sanctity and reverence inherent in traditional temple construction. His decision not to attend is grounded in the principle of choosing not to be part of a place where due respect is perceived to be lacking, emphasizing the importance of sacredness and authenticity in religious endeavors.

The statement underscores the elevated position of the Shankaracharya, asserting that it’s on par with, if not higher than, that of a Prime Minister or President. This proclamation suggests a strong belief in the spiritual and moral authority of the Shankaracharya, implying that their role as spiritual leaders holds a unique significance in society. The decision not to attend the event is rooted in a commitment to maintaining the dignity and glory associated with their position. The reluctance to participate is not a rejection of reverence for Shri Ram, but rather a principled stand against what is perceived as the opportunistic and manipulative politics of certain leaders. This stance emphasizes the independence and moral integrity of the spiritual leadership, free from what is considered as the influence of “crooked” political figures.

Jagatguru Shankaracharya Swami Shri Bharati Teerth Ji of Sringeri Sharda Peeth has declined the invitation to the Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pranpratistha Utsav, expressing nuanced dissatisfaction. While expressing joy about the construction of the Ram temple, his reservations stem from the fact that the temple is still under construction. He deems it inappropriate to consecrate the divine in a structure that is not yet complete, citing concerns about the righteousness of such an act.

His discontent extends beyond the construction concerns. He raises his concern on the simultaneous construction of what is purported to be Asia’s largest mosque in Ayodhya. This, for him, marks an unfortunate turn of events. The dissatisfaction is further accentuated by a sense of neglect, as he claims that he, along with other revered figures, had presented evidence in court regarding the Ram Mandir. However, according to his statement, the Ram Mandir Trust has not sought advice from them or their representatives, suggesting a lack of consultation with key spiritual leaders.

In a critical tone, the Shankaracharya accuses the government of having a duplicitous character. He contends that the government, despite executing the construction of the Ram temple, is perceived as exploiting Hindu sentiments for political gains. This assertion reflects a broader skepticism about the government’s intentions and commitment to the holistic well-being of the religious community.

In essence, Shankaracharya Swami Shri Bharati Teerth Ji’s refusal to participate is a complex stance, intertwining concerns about the sanctity of consecration, dissatisfaction with the construction process, and a broader critique of the government’s approach to religious matters.

Jagatguru Shankaracharya Shri Swami Sadanand Saraswati Ji of Paschimannaya Dwarka Shardapeeth has chosen not to participate in the Ram Mandir Mahotsav, citing several significant concerns.

Firstly, he criticizes the timing of the consecration, stating that in the inauspicious month of Paush, according to scriptures, the initiation of life consecration in deities is deemed inappropriate. He proposes that a more suitable time would be the upcoming Shri Ram Navami, the auspicious birth day of Lord Rama. This reflects a concern for adhering to religious traditions and auspicious timings as per scriptures.

A central point of contention is the perceived politicization of the event. Swami Sadanand Saraswati Ji suggests that politics is the primary reason for the consecration happening at this moment. He anticipates that the election code of conduct will be in force during Ram Navami, making it less advantageous for BJP leaders to exploit the consecration for political gain. This perspective introduces a political dimension to the decision-making process around the temple consecration, highlighting concerns about the event being strategically timed for political advantage.

Additionally, Swami Sadanand Saraswati Ji raises a fundamental question about the rationale behind consecrating the temple before its completion. Drawing an analogy, he notes that traditionally, one does not enter a house until it is fully formed. Therefore, he questions the logic behind initiating the temple’s consecration when the construction is still in progress. This concern reflects a commitment to the completeness and integrity of the religious structure before initiating sacred rituals.

In summary, Swami Sadanand Saraswati Ji’s decision not to participate is underpinned by a mix of religious considerations, concerns about political motivations, and a fundamental query about the timing of the consecration vis-a-vis the temple’s completion. This stance underscores the intricate intersection of religious practices, political dynamics, and logistical aspects surrounding the Ram Mandir Mahotsav.

Jagatguru Shankaracharya Swami Shri Avimukteshwarananda Saraswati of Uttaramnaya Jyotirmath has decided not to attend the Ayodhya event on January 22, citing specific concerns rooted in religious principles and societal norms.

Central to his objection is the assertion that the Vedas, foundational texts in Hinduism, contain a distinctive provision for the role of priesthood, reserving it for Brahmins. According to Vedic traditions, the priesthood is considered exclusive to the Brahmin caste. Swami Avimukteshwarananda Saraswati emphasizes the significance of adhering to these established practices outlined in the Vedas.

His objection extends to the government’s actions, as he perceives them to be contrary to these religious principles. Specifically, he criticizes the appointment of a Shudra as a temple priest. In traditional Hindu varna system, Shudras are considered for service, and historically, priesthood has been restricted to the Brahmin caste, though everybody including Shudras  are eligible to get the fruits of religious practices. Discarding all allegations of caste discrimination in Sanatan Hindu Dharma,  Swami Avimukteshwarananda Saraswati interprets the appointment of a Shudra priest as a deviation from these established norms, viewing it as a departure from the religious principles outlined in the Vedas.

Moreover, he frames the government’s actions as contrary to the teachings of Shri Ram, indicating that making a Shudra a temple priest is perceived as an insult to the ideals associated with Shri Ram. This perspective highlights a deep concern for maintaining the sanctity of religious practices and upholding the traditional social hierarchy as per Vedic teachings.

In essence, Swami Avimukteshwarananda Saraswati’s decision not to participate is firmly rooted in his commitment to upholding traditional Vedic principles regarding priesthood and the caste system. His objection emphasizes the need to preserve the religious and societal norms encoded in ancient scriptures, and he sees the government’s actions as conflicting with these deeply ingrained principles.

In Narendra Modi’s parliamentary constituency of Varanasi, there has been controversy surrounding the demolition of mythological temples in the name of corridor construction. This issue reflects a clash between developmental initiatives and the preservation of cultural and religious heritage.

The construction of corridors, often aimed at improving infrastructure and connectivity, has become a hallmark of urban development. However, in the case of Varanasi, the development initiatives have sparked debates and criticism due to the demolition of mythological temples.

The term “mythological temples” implies that these structures hold historical and religious significance in Hindu mythology. Temples in Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a sacred site in Hinduism, are repositories of cultural and spiritual heritage.

The decision to demolish these temples raises concerns about the balance between progress and heritage conservation. Supporters of the corridor construction argue that it is essential for modernizing the city, boosting tourism, and enhancing overall infrastructure. On the other hand, critics, including local communities and religious leaders, express dismay at the loss of historically significant structures.

The controversy highlights a broader challenge faced by rapidly developing urban centers worldwide — how to reconcile modernization with the preservation of cultural identity. It also raises questions about the decision-making processes and whether adequate measures were taken to mitigate the impact on heritage sites.

In summary, the demolition of mythological temples in Varanasi reflects the complex interplay between development goals and the preservation of cultural and religious heritage. The controversy serves as a microcosm of a global challenge faced by cities undergoing rapid transformation, where decisions about progress must be carefully weighed against the need to safeguard historical and spiritual legacies.

The statement “they demolish temples on one side and build them on the other” made by Narendra Modi points to a nuanced perspective on the use of religion and caste in Indian politics, specifically by both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress.

More over Puri Govardhanmath Shankaracharya alleged that the RSS-BJP-VHP have projected a fake Shankaracharya Swami Adhokshjanand as the in-charge of Govardhanmath, very unfortunately. It is heard that Swami Adhoksajanand will join in the Ram Temple Consecration Ceremony under the invitation of Sri Ramjanbhoomi Teerth Khestra (Trust).The other four Shankaracharys have taken it very objectionable.

As such, the claim made by Puri Govardhanmath Shankaracharya, accusing the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh), BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party), and VHP (Vishwa Hindu Parishad) of projecting a fake Shankaracharya, Swami Adhokshjanand, as in-charge of Govardhanmath, unfolds a narrative of alleged misrepresentation and discontent within the religious leadership.

It is also unfortunate that once Narendra Modi was seen at the feet of Shankaracharyas to get blessings for his political prosperity, who is ‘now playing an adharmik role to undermine the Sanatan values and dignities’.

In such a truce, the height of consecration ceremony of newly built (actually under construction) Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya is being hinged otherwise. The obstinate General Secretary of Ramjanmabhoomi Teerth kshetra Trust, Champat Raionly sees the Incarnation of Vishnu in PM Modi. But he cannot find the incarnation of Lord Shiva in the entity of Four Shankaracharyas anyway.

The non-participation of Highest Dharma gurus of Hindu Dharma in the most awaited Ram temple consecration is really unfortunate. It is not only a religious setback but also carries broader social and political implications.

Important Update: At latest Sringeri Sankaracharya Sri Bharati Teerth Mahaswamy Ji has conveyed his blessings that every Astika must take part in the most sacred and rare Prana-pratistha in Ayodhya on January 22 to get unbounded grace of Bhagavan Sri Rama.

The message of Sri Bharati Teerth Mahaswamy came to fore through an official message of Sringeri Sharada Peetham dated January 8, 2024.

But, it is not clear from the message whether Sringeri Shankaracharya will participate in the Prana-pratistha in Ayodhya or not.

Another Important Update: Shankaracharya Avimuketshwaranand Saraswati Ji Slams Champat Rai on Ram Mandir Pran-Pratistha.

Shankaracharya Swami Shri Avimuketshwaranand Saraswati Ji of Jyotirmath (Joshimath-Badarikashram) slammed Sri Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust  General Secretary Shri Champat Rai for his divisive and anti-Scriptural versions on Ram Mandir Prana-pratistha programme in a very argumentative way. Swami Shri Avimuketshwaranand Saraswati Ji condemned the hectic way of the consecration ceremony in an incomplete temple contradicting the methods described in Sanatan Hindu Shastras (scriptures).

The Jyotirmath Shankaracharya described the ownership of Ram Temple belongs to entire Sanatan Hindu Samaj and if it is of  only Ramananda Sampradaya (as told by Champat Rai), then the entire Trustees must resign in order to hand over the  entire matter of consecration of Ram Janmabhoomi temple to  the Ramanandi Sampradaya and Nirmohi Akhada before Jan 22, 2024 without delay.

…

__Inputs from Dainik Jagran.