“Worried… Religion Is Personal, Don’t Nationalise It”: Congress Leader Sam Pitroda On Politics Behind Temple Inauguration

In a recent statement, Congress leader Sam Pitroda expressed concern about the Ram Temple inauguration, emphasizing the perceived overemphasis on religion in politics. He conveyed his worry, stating, “I”m concerned because too much importance is given to religion, and I see that democracy is being undermined.” Pitroda, also the Chairperson of Indian Overseas Congress, raised questions about the priorities of the nation, criticizing the lack of focus on crucial issues.

The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra, a trust constituted to look after the construction and management of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya after a historic verdict by Supreme Court, has invited several important personalities for the consecration ceremony scheduled at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir January 22. The newly built temple would be opened for devotees after the consecration of the idol of Ram Lalla.

Highlighting his apprehensions about the state of democracy, Pitroda mentioned the absence of press conferences by the Prime Minister during a decade-long tenure and the naming of a national stadium after the sitting Prime Minister. He asserted while talking to news agency ANI, “When the Prime Minister has no problem giving a name to a national stadium in his own name while he”s alive, that bothers me. There are signals I”m getting that say we are heading in the wrong direction.”

Pitroda underscored his perspective on the politicization of religion, stating, “When a nation is involved in the Ram Temple, that bothers me. To me, religion is a personal thing. Don”t confuse it with the national agenda.” He advocated for a national focus on critical issues such as education, employment, economic growth, inflation, health, environment, and pollution, criticizing the current approach as unsuitable for building a modern nation.

Emphasizing his belief in individual freedoms, Pitroda asserted, “I don”t care what religion you practice. I have to respect you for who you are and not what religion you follow. I”m not going to dictate what you eat or what you pray for; that”s your personal freedom.” Expressing his dismay at the nation”s preoccupation with the Ram Temple and Ram Janmabhoomi, he concluded, “Religion is something very personal. Don”t nationalize it. Don”t use it for political gains.” Pitroda suggested redirecting the Prime Minister”s focus from temples to schools, libraries, and scientific institutions for the betterment of the nation.

According to the Trust, invitations have been extended to revered saints from all traditions, along with all prominent individuals contributing to the honor of the country in every domain.

In the new Teerthakshetrapuram (Bag Bijaisi), a Tent City has been established in the area which includes six tubewells, six kitchen houses, and a hospital with ten beds.

Approximately 150 doctors from around the country have agreed to provide their services in rotation at this hospital, the Trust said in a statement.

Langars, community kitchens, food distribution centers and meal areas will be set up in every corner of the town as part of the preparations for the consecration ceremony.

About 4,000 saints have been invited to participate, from all sects.

Invitations have been extended to all Shankaracharyas, Mahamandaleshwars, top spiritual leaders of the Sikh and Buddhist communities, among others.

Key figures from various realms such as Vamini Narayan, Art of Living, Gayatri Parivar, Media Houses, Sports, Farmers and the Art world have been invited.

Invitations have also been sent to veteran journalists active from 1984 to 1992.

The families of Karsewaks have also been invited.

Rama Lala’s idols are being made by three sculptors- Ganesh Bhatt, Arun Yogiraj and Satyanarayan Pandey. Out of the three, the idol that brings to life the tenderness of a five-year-old child will be chosen.

The consecration ceremony rituals will commence from January 16.

Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid ji from Kashi and Lakshmikant Dikshit ji will conduct the Pran Pratishtha Puja.

Following the consecration ceremony, there will be a 48-day cycle of mandala puja (ritualistic worship) under the leadership of Vishwaprasann Teerth Ji, a revered figure.