RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Calls Ram Mandir Consecration ‘True Independence Day’ for India

In a bold statement, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat declared that India attained its “true independence” on the day of the Ram Mandir consecration in Ayodhya, marking January 22, 2024, as a historic turning point for the nation.

Speaking in Indore on Monday, Bhagwat emphasised that the construction of the Ram Mandir signified more than just a political milestone. “After enduring hardships for centuries, India got its true independence on this day. Independence got established with Ram Mandir. India had independence, 15th august is there but that is political independence. Independence in true sense got established with Ram Mandir consecration—rooted in our cultural and spiritual heritage”, said Mohan Bhagwat. He further argued that the event, which took place on the Dwadashi of Paush month in the Hindu calendar, should be commemorated annually as "Pratishtha Dwadashi," symbolising the nation’s rebirth as a sovereign entity guided by its own cultural and spiritual ethos.

The Ram Mandir consecration ceremony, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 22, 2024, marked a significant moment in India's history, drawing widespread attention and sentiment. Bhagwat noted that while political independence was formally recognised in 1947, the country’s Constitution, despite its visionary ideals, has not always been in sync with the nation’s spiritual roots.

“The Constitution was created based on a specific vision for India, but it has not always reflected the spirit of that vision,” Bhagwat explained. “The Ram Mandir movement was never about opposing anyone, but about awakening the ‘self’ of Bharat, helping the country stand on its own feet, and setting an example for the world.”

During the event, Bhagwat also presented the ‘National Devi Ahilya Award’ to Champat Rai, the general secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. Rai was recognised for his pivotal role in the Ram Mandir movement.

The consecration of the Ram Mandir, seen by many as a significant moment of cultural resurgence, has been a subject of political debate. Critics, particularly from the opposition, have argued that the event was timed to benefit the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of the 2024 general elections. Notably, the Faizabad Lok Sabha seat, which includes Ayodhya, was unexpectedly won by Samajwadi Party candidate Awadhesh Prasad in the recent elections, defeating BJP’s Lallu Singh.