Srinagar January 22 (KNS): In a heartwarming display of unity and cultural resonance, Kashmiri Muslims have presented a generous gift of 2 kg of pure saffron for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Ashok Bhan, Chairman of the Kashmir (Policy & Strategy) Group, lauds this symbolic gesture as a testament to the shared reverence for Lord Ram among diverse communities.
Ashok Bhan said, "The generous gift of 2 kg of pure saffron from Kashmiri Muslims for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is a symbol of unity transcending religious boundaries. This gesture reflects the shared reverence for Lord Ram among diverse communities, emphasizing the common cultural heritage that binds us."
"As the grand ceremony unfolds on January 22, 2024, and the temple opens its doors for public 'darshan' from January 23, the contributions from devotees, including this thoughtful gift of saffron, enhance the sacred atmosphere surrounding the event", he said.
Bhan informed, "The meeting between Kashmiri Muslims and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) president Alok Kumar underscores the sentiment that, despite different religious paths, our ancestral connections and shared cultural roots foster mutual respect. Their acknowledgment of Lord Ram as a revered ancestor signifies the inclusive nature of the Ramayana's teachings, emphasizing universal values of duty, rights, and social responsibilities."
"The narrative of Rama's incarnation as an embodiment of God in human form, as per the Ramayana, resonates with the collective consciousness. The ancient legends of Rama, enriched with cultural expressions, not only shape the core of Vaishnavism but also find echoes in Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism, demonstrating the enduring impact of these tales across diverse spiritual traditions", he said.
"Shri Ram's stay is marked by enchanting anecdotes that continue to resonate with the Kashmiri cultural heritage. Legend has it that during his exile, Shri Ram sought solace in the serene meadows of Kashmir, leaving an indelible mark on the land.
This harmonious convergence of faiths in the gift of saffron exemplifies the profound cultural harmony that weaves together the rich heritage of India, celebrating the essence of unity in diversity. As the grand ceremony of Pran Pratishtha unfolds in Ayodhya, the gift of saffron from Kashmir serves as a symbol of this profound connection, bridging the historical anecdotes of Shri Ram with the present-day expressions of unity and respect among diverse communities", he said.(KNS