New temple in India the latest endeavor of Hindu nationalist movement
Event expected to boost the prime minister's re-election campaign
Hi Religion Unplugged readers,
On Monday, India’s Prime Minister Narenda Modi held an opening ceremony for Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, a temple in Ayodhya dedicated to Lord Ram. Hindus around the world celebrated the opening of the temple, but many others have criticized its use as a way to boost Modi’s image ahead of the national election in March.
“Religion is a personal matter. But the RSS/BJP have long made a political project of the temple in Ayodhya,” The Congress Party said in a statement.
The photo above depicts the Babri Masjid, a historical mosque built in the 16th century. It was destroyed in 1992 by a mob made up primarily of Hindutvas, and the temple was built on its ruins.
Modi has received regular criticism for his treatment of India’s Muslim minority; this action is believed to be an extension of that poor treatment.
Contributor Shadab Farooq reports from India on the opening ceremony, its political purpose and the rising anxiety of Muslims as a result.
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