This temple in Saligram is symbol of enduring faith in Ram Mandir

Team Udayavani, Jan 13, 2024, 9:00 AM IST

During the Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute that gripped the nation many years ago, a group of five young boys, then aged 10-11, in Saligram, Kota, took it upon themselves to express their unequivocal support for the construction of a Ram Mandir. Their collective effort in constructing a small temple was a testament to their resounding declaration, “Our verdict is in favor of Ram Mandir.”

Today, their hearts swell with joy as they witness the realization of their childhood aspirations in the ongoing construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

The year was 1989, and the Ayodhya struggle had intensified, resonating in every village across the nation. Inspired by watching the Ramayana on television and witnessing the Rama padayatra and bhajans passing through Saligram, a group of youngsters, namely Nagesh Hegde, Vasudeva Bhatt, Raghavendra Hegde, Surendra Hegde, and Rabindranath Shanubhag, felt a deep connection to the cause. Unbeknownst to them about the location of Ayodhya, they resolved that if the construction of the Ram Mandir faced obstacles there, they would establish and worship Ram in their own town.

In 1990, in a quiet corner of Saligram, they initiated their endeavor by crafting a small mud gopuram adorned with coconuts, housing a picture of Sri Rama and Sita. After school, they would gather to recite chants and offer daily worship, bringing home-prepared prasadam. As their enthusiasm grew, so did their makeshift temple.

Witnessing the dedication of the children, locals contributed cement, and a small hut was constructed to shelter their evolving temple. A strategically placed cement sheet ensured uninterrupted bhajans even during the rainy season. The initial photograph was later replaced by a white Plaster of Paris statue of Rama, and eventually, a well-arranged temple housing clay and white metal idols emerged. Today, it stands as a fully established and regularly visited temple.

Udayavani, took notice of their remarkable initiative and published a report about their efforts. The temple, known as Kodandarama, welcomes everyone to worship, with special pujas, bhajans, and other sevas held during all nine days of Ram Navami. Furthermore, preparations are underway for a special ceremony on the January 22, featuring puja, bhajan, and the distribution of fruits.

Reflecting on those early days, Nagesh Hegde, a key member acknowledges that, at the time, they may not have fully understood the intricacies of the Ram Mandir struggle. However, their heartfelt desire to contribute led them to build a temple that stands as a symbol of their dedication.