Ayodhya |
Mahant Satyendra Das, the head priest of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, passed away at the age of 85 after suffering a brain stroke. He was undergoing treatment at Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGI) but could not recover.
A Life Dedicated to the Ram Temple
Mahant Satyendra Das had been serving as the priest of the makeshift Ram temple since December 6, 1992, the day the Babri Mosque was demolished. Over the years, he became one of the most respected and well-known seers of Ayodhya, playing a key role in temple developments.
Belonging to the Nirvani Akhara, he was known for his accessibility and deep knowledge of the Ayodhya movement. Many journalists and visitors turned to him for insights into the history and future of the Ram temple.
Vishva Hindu Parishad’s Ayodhya-based spokesperson Sharad Sharma expressed his respect for the late priest, saying,
“He was a widely respected figure who knew the Ayodhya movement’s history by heart. We pray for his soul.”
CM Yogi Adityanath Pays Tribute
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath mourned Mahant Satyendra Das’s passing, calling it an irreparable loss to the spiritual world.
“His demise is extremely saddening. He was a true devotee of Lord Ram and dedicated his life to the Ram temple. May Lord Ram grant peace to his soul and strength to his disciples and followers in this time of grief,” the CM wrote on social media.
End of an Era
Mahant Satyendra Das was not just a priest but a symbol of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, witnessing its journey from a makeshift temple to the grand Ram Mandir. His passing marks the end of an era in Ayodhya’s history.
