India Braces for Consecration of Controversial Ram Temple

The event, led by Prime Minister Modi, stirs excitement and fear as the incomplete temple symbolizes Hindu nationalism and marginalization of Muslims.

India is preparing for the consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, a controversial event that has stirred both excitement and fear across the country. The temple is being built on the site where a mosque was torn down by a mob led by Hindu nationalists over three decades ago.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will consecrate the temple on January 22. The event is being seen as a significant moment in Modi's push for Hindu nationalism, and is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of devotees.
Despite the anticipation, the temple complex will not be completed by the time of the consecration. This has led to disappointment among some devotees and criticism from religious leaders.
The event has also raised concerns among India's Muslim community, who view the temple as a symbol of their marginalization under Modi's rule. Some Muslims are reportedly planning to stay home on the day of the consecration to avoid potential provocations by Hindu nationalists.
Temples across the United States are also preparing to observe the consecration, with thousands of Indian Americans expected to participate in a series of events.