Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate a Hindu temple in January, marking a significant moment in the country’s political landscape. The temple’s construction is situated in Ayodhya, a town on the northern riverside, believed to be the birthplace of the Hindu deity Ram. This auspicious event fulfills a long-standing pledge made by Modi’s nationalist party, serving as a catalyst to energize their base before the upcoming elections in 2022.
After decades of contentious disputes, the Supreme Court of India granted custody of the religious site to the Hindu community in 2019, resolving a longstanding issue that had witnessed violent riots during the 1990s. Now, Prime Minister Modi, 72, is expected to preside over the idol installation ceremonies, scheduled to commence on January 14th and continue for approximately 10-12 days. Nripendra Misra, Chairman of the temple construction committee, shared that the entire complex, including the temple, is projected to be completed by 2025, with an estimated cost of 15 billion rupees ($181 million), out of which the temple alone requires 6 billion rupees.
Notably, the temple inauguration precedes the eagerly anticipated national elections, expected to take place between April and May. The timing serves as an ideal opportunity for the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to garner support and convince the electorate that Modi should be granted a third consecutive term as the Prime Minister of India.
This event holds immense significance for Modi personally, as he was originally one of the key organizers behind the nationwide movement in 1990, advocating for a Hindu temple to replace the mosque on this site. This period marked the emergence of his party as a significant political force in the country. Unfortunately, the mosque’s demolition in 1992 by a Hindu mob triggered violent riots resulting in the loss of approximately 2,000 lives, predominantly Muslim.
The Ayodhya temple has evolved as a symbolic representation of the BJP’s Hindu-first agenda. Critics argue that this focus on Hindu nationalism has eroded India’s reputation as a tolerant nation, exacerbating existing tensions and incidents of communal violence, such as those witnessed in Manipur and Delhi.
Interestingly, Prime Minister Modi leveraged the recent Group of 20 summit in New Delhi to bolster his standing both domestically and internationally, showcasing his diplomatic credentials. In response, opposition parties are forging alliances to counter Modi’s popularity and strategize to avoid fragmented contests in the parliamentary elections.
As the anticipated inauguration of the Ayodhya temple approaches, it stands as a poignant reminder of the deep-rooted religious sentiments and political strategy that continue to shape modern India. The completion of this complex will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the political landscape, communal relations, and the future of Indian democracy.
Market Capital Research 