VHP Invites LK Advani and MM Joshi to Ram Temple Consecration, Despite Earlier Request to Skip Event

Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) extends invitations to BJP stalwarts LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi for the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22. The move comes after a temple trust official initially advised the senior leaders not to attend due to their advanced age. Both Advani and Joshi have expressed their intent to make every effort to be present at the historic event, showcasing their continued commitment to the Ram Mandir movement.

VHP President Alok Kumar affirmed the invitation, stating, "The pioneers of the Ram Mandir movement, Advani ji and Murli Manohar Joshi ji were invited to attend the consecration ceremony. Both of them said that they will try their best to come."

Despite their crucial roles in the 1990 Rath Yatra, which significantly contributed to the BJP's rise to power in Indian politics, the temple trust had earlier suggested that the leaders refrain from attending due to their age. LK Advani is 96 years old, while Murli Manohar Joshi will turn 90 next month.

Champat Rai, the general secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, previously mentioned on Monday that they had requested the senior leaders not to attend, considering their age. Rai stated, "Both are elders in the (Sangh) family, and considering their age, they have been requested not to come (to Ayodhya for the consecration event). Both have accepted our request."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to participate in the installation of the Lord Ram idol during the ceremony on January 22. The event will witness the presence of 4000 saints, including those from 13 Akharas, and 2200 other dignitaries. Renowned personalities, including the Dalai Lama, Mata Amritanandamayi, Rajnikanth, Amitabh Bachchan, Madhuri Dixit, Arun Govil, Baba Ramdev, Mukesh Ambani, Anil Ambani, Madhur Bhandarkar, Vasudev Kamat, and ISRO's Director Nilesh Desai, are also expected to attend the momentous occasion.