Maharashtra: Uddhav Sena To Perform ‘Maha Aarti’ In Nashik On Ram Temple Consecration Day

In a sharp move, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, who has been snubbed by the Sangh Parivar by not inviting him to the inauguration of the Ramjanambhoomi temple in Ayodhya on January 22, has decided to offer prayers at the Kalaram temple in Panchavati locality of Nashik that day and perform ‘maha aarti’ on the banks of the Godavari river.

Kalaram temple connect with Dalits

Kalaram temple has a deep emotional connection with millions of Dalits because of the temple entry agitation started by Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar there. Dalits were not allowed to enter that temple by upper caste Hindus and to protest against that Dr Ambedkar has led a widespread movement. The highlight of the campaign was when Dr Ambedkar led a large number of Dalits for a forced entry into the temple on March 2, 1930.  Noted social reformer Sane Guruji had also played a major role in ensuring Dalit entry into the temple. 

Consecration of Ram temple is a matter of pride, self-respect: Uddhav

Mr Thackeray  told reporters on Saturday that “The consecration of the  Ram temple in Ayodhya is a matter of pride and self-respect (for Hindus). On that day (January 22), we will visit the Kalaram temple at 6.30 pm where Dr Ambedkar and  Sane Guruji had to stage protests. At 7.30 pm, we will hold a ‘maha aarti’ on the banks of the Godavari.” 

Massive rally in Nashik on Jan 23

The Kalaram temple is dedicated to Lord Ram where the idol is carved out of black stone. It is widely believed that Lord Ram stayed in Panchavati with wife Sita and his brother Lakshman during their exile. By visiting Kalaram temple on the day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be inaugurating the temple in Ayodhya, Mr Thackeray is sending a quiet message that his Hindu roots are strong and at the same time he will be seen as a leader with Dalits on his mind. Thackeray announced that a massive rally will be organised by his party at Nashik on January 23, to mark the birth anniversary of his father and Shiv Sena founder the late Bal Thackeray. 

Last week Mr Thackeray had stated that he does not need an invitation to visit Ayodhya. He said Lord Ram belonged to all and he would certainly visit Ayodhya at the right time. He noted that the Shiv Sena had played a major role in the  movement for the liberation of the Ramjanambhoomi temple. His party spokesperson Sanjay Raut had even claimed that Shiv Sainks had helped demolish Babri masjid. Incidentally, many in the BJP feel that Mr Thackeray ought to have been invited even though the latter has adopted a hostile stance towards their party.