PM Modi Credits Stalwarts Like Ashok Singhal for Making Grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya Possible

NEW DELHI, Sept 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tribute to former Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Ashok Singhal on his birth centenary, recalling his role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and his decades-long work in social and cultural spheres.

In an article published in newspapers, Modi described Singhal as a person who combined spiritual pursuit, cultural engagement and organisational work. He highlighted Singhal’s emphasis on social harmony, equality and strengthening bonds of fraternity.

Recalling Singhal’s contribution to the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, Modi referred to his address at the 1991 Boat Club rally and the prominent role he played during the campaign. The prime minister said the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya was made possible through the efforts of leaders such as Singhal, who devoted themselves to the movement.

Modi said Singhal would have been deeply pleased to see the Ram temple taking shape in Ayodhya. Singhal was born on September 27, 1926, and died on November 17, 2015.

The prime minister also recalled Singhal’s emphasis on social unity and equal dignity. He cited Singhal’s association with initiatives involving marginalised communities and his decision to honour Kameshwar Choupal, a VHP worker from Bihar, in connection with the Ram temple movement.

Modi described Singhal as a dedicated nation-builder who travelled extensively to remote parts of the country. He particularly recalled his work in tribal areas of Gujarat and his contribution to relief efforts following the 2001 Kutch earthquake.

According to Modi, Singhal was committed to helping people affected by natural disasters and would either personally reach affected areas or guide organisational workers involved in relief operations.

Recalling his own association with Singhal, Modi said their interactions went back to 1981, when he was a young RSS worker handling organisational responsibilities. He also remembered receiving a handwritten letter from Singhal concerning an upcoming programme and assigned duties.

The prime minister said Singhal came from an accomplished family but chose a life dedicated to social and cultural work. His early years in Prayagraj, particularly his exposure to saints, seers and devotees at the Sangam, contributed to his understanding of India’s cultural traditions, Modi said.

Singhal subsequently joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and took on organisational responsibilities with discipline and commitment. Modi also recalled his ability to build institutions and movements through sustained effort.

The prime minister highlighted Singhal’s oratory and his close relationships with fellow workers, saints and religious leaders. He described him as a person known for simplicity and his ability to inspire those working alongside him.

Modi recalled Singhal’s organisational role in international events, including a VHP convention held in the United States in 1993 to commemorate the centenary of Swami Vivekananda’s address in Chicago. He also mentioned the World Hindu Conference held in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, in 2000.

Education and music were among the other areas that, according to Modi, remained close to Singhal’s heart. He noted that Singhal studied at Banaras Hindu University and had a particular interest in Vedic education.

Modi also mentioned Singhal’s association with the Ekal Vidyalaya initiative, which worked to provide basic education in remote villages, including tribal regions.

The prime minister recalled Singhal’s interest in music and said he was a good singer who would sometimes perform the Ekal Geet during organisational meetings.

As the year-long centenary commemorations begin, Modi urged younger generations to learn about Singhal’s life and work. He called for renewed efforts to carry forward the ideals and causes associated with his legacy.