Ayodhya to immortalise Ram Mandir movement icons through naming of key temple structures

The decision to weave the history of the Ram Mandir movement into the very structure of the temple is being seen as a bold and meaningful step.

In a significant move to honor the legacy of those who spearheaded the Ram Mandir movement, the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has decided to name several prominent structures within the Ram temple complex after key figures associated with the decades-long struggle for the temple’s construction.

This symbolic gesture, discussed and unanimously approved during a recent meeting of the Trust, is aimed at ensuring that the stories of sacrifice, leadership, and perseverance behind the temple's realisation become a lasting part of its identity, inspiring future generations of devotees and pilgrims.

“This temple is not just about devotion. It is the culmination of a movement that saw years of struggle, countless sacrifices, and unwavering faith. The names of these stalwarts must live on in the very stones of the temple they fought for,” said Mahant Ramsharan Das, a senior seer closely associated with the movement. “It is an emotionally powerful decision. These names will not only honor their legacy but educate every visitor about the journey of the temple.”

Structures Named After Movement Icons

Among the first to be recognized is Ashok Singhal, the late stalwart of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), who is widely credited with galvanizing nationwide support for the temple. A 500-seat auditorium currently under construction on the southern flank of the temple complex will be named in his honor. The auditorium is expected to be completed by April 2026 and will host cultural and religious events, seminars, and lectures related to Hindu philosophy and temple traditions.

Another structure—the main entrance of the pilgrims’ facility center—will be named after Baba Abhiram Das, the priest who, according to historical accounts, placed the idol of Ram Lalla inside the disputed structure on the night of December 22–23, 1949, a pivotal moment that shaped the trajectory of the Ram Janmbhoomi movement.

The facility center itself, designed to accommodate thousands of pilgrims daily, will carry the name of Mahant Avaidyanath, a fiery advocate of the Ram Mandir cause and spiritual mentor of current Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Avaidyanath served as a bridge between the temple movement and the political establishment, lending both spiritual and political weight to the campaign.

Also to be honored is Ramchandra Das Paramhans, the first president of the Ram Janmbhoomi Nyas, who played a crucial role in the 1989 shilanyas (foundation laying ceremony). A major service center located on the ‘Ram Mandir Darshan Path’ will be named after him.

The Trust had previously announced that the four grand entrance gates of the temple complex would be named after revered Jagadgurus, underscoring the temple's commitment to reflecting India's rich spiritual traditions.

Temple as a Symbol of Unity

Trust president Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, who recently visited the sanctum sanctorum on the occasion of Jyeshtha Purnima, performed special prayers at the Ram Darbar. Although he missed the June 5 consecration ceremony due to ill health, he used the occasion to speak about the temple’s broader significance.

“This temple is not only fulfilling the dreams of crores of devotees but is also becoming a symbol of social harmony,” said Mahant Nritya Gopal Das. “It is uniting people across castes, communities, and regions through shared faith.”

He also visited the newly constructed Sapta Mandapam and other shrines located within the outer boundary of the sprawling complex, which is rapidly taking shape as one of the most significant Hindu pilgrimage sites in the world.

A Living Monument of Faith and History

The decision to weave the history of the Ram Mandir movement into the very structure of the temple is being seen as a bold and meaningful step. Devotees, saints, and political observers alike are praising the initiative for preserving the spirit of the struggle that culminated in the temple's construction.

“The Ram temple is not only a place of worship but also a testament to India’s democratic and spiritual journey. Embedding these names in its foundation gives voice to those who were silenced, courage to those who fought, and pride to those who believed,” said Dr Vijay M Dixit, a senior historian associated with Ayodhya movement.

The Trust’s initiative ensures that the Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir is not only a spiritual destination but also a historical chronicle — one that honors the faith, politics, and people behind one of the most impactful socio-religious movements of modern India.