In a momentous occasion on Thursday, January 18th, members of the Suryavanshi Thakur community joyously adorned their turbans (padgdi) in anticipation of the consecration ceremony of the long-awaited Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Notably, the community had steadfastly pledged not to wear turbans until a majestic Ram Mandir was reconstructed at the site where a disputed structure, commissioned by the Mughal ruler Babur, had stood for centuries.
The historic wait of almost 500 years came to an end for the Suryavanshi Thakur community, marking a significant milestone in their cultural and religious history. The jubilant moment unfolded in the Sarairasi village of Ayodhya, resonating across approximately 115 villages along the Saryu River in Ayodhya and the neighboring Basti district. The Suryavanshi Thakurs proudly identify themselves as the descendants of Lord Ram.
Rooted Beliefs and Vow of Sacrifice
The community’s deep-rooted belief is grounded in a historical account where around 90,000 of their ancestors valiantly fought against Mir Baqi, the commander of the Mughal tyrant Babur. This war was waged after Babur demolished an ancient Ram temple and erected a disputed structure in its place. A 63-year-old Suryavanshi Thakur named Dayaram Singh revealed that a total of 76 battles were fought from Babur’s era to British rule to liberate the Ram janmabhoomi.
As a symbol of their commitment, when the warriors marched towards the Ram janmabhoomi, they took a solemn vow at Surya Kund. They pledged not to wear turbans, leather shoes, or use umbrellas until they successfully liberated Lord Ram’s janmabhoomi.
Integral Role in the Ram Janmabhoomi Movement
During the Ram Janmabhoomi movement in the 1990s, the Suryavanshi Thakurs played a pivotal role in supporting the karsevaks (devotees of Lord Ram) who arrived from various parts of the country. Offering hospitality, food, shelter, and assistance, the community ensured the safe passage of these devotees to the janmabhoomi site.
Shiv Singh, a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and a resident of Sarairasi village, has made an appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. He urges them to extend an invitation to at least one representative from the Suryavanshi Thakur community to participate in the grand Ram Mandir consecration ceremony, acknowledging their enduring commitment and significant historical role.
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