As the anticipation builds for the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in the sacred city of Ayodhya on January 22, people across the country are immersed in excitement and devotion for Ram Lalla. However, the road to this auspicious moment has been marked by moments of despair, unwavering struggle, and immense courage. Behind the realization of this long-awaited dream stands a person who has been a relentless force in shaping this reality – a person who dedicated his entire life to witness this historic day. Let’s delve into the story of the individual who played a crucial role in making this dream a reality: Champat Rai.
Champat Rai currently serves as the Secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra. Affectionately known as the ‘Patwari of Rama’ by the locals, Champat Rai has Devoted his life to the footsteps of Lord Rama.
Champat Rai has taken the charge of the consecration program of Ayodhya Ram Mandir. He provides answers to questions about the program’s format, the participants, the duration, and the commencement of Rama’s darshan for the public, establishing himself as the go-to person for the media and journalists.
But who exactly is Champat Rai, and what role does he play in the construction of the Ram Mandir? Let’s delve into the life of Champat Rai.
Champat Rai was born on November 18, 1946, in the Nagina tehsil of Bijnor district in Uttar Pradesh to Rameshwar Prasad Bansal and Savitri Devi. He is the second among ten siblings. Engaging with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) at a young age, Champat Rai actively propagated the RSS ideology. After completing his higher education, he became a professor of chemistry at the Degree College in Dhamapur and started his professional career.
In 1991, Champat Rai entered Ayodhya as the Regional Organizing Secretary. Subsequently, he became the Central Minister of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) in 1996 and later held the positions of Joint General Secretary and International General Secretary. Currently, Champat Rai serves as the International Vice President of the Vishva Hindu Parishad.
Champat Rai played a crucial role in the social movement and legal battle for the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. He diligently managed all documents and evidence related to Ram Janmabhoomi, presenting new evidence to lawyers daily, attending court sessions, and maintaining composure during hearings.
In 2019, after the Supreme Court’s verdict, Champat Rai was entrusted with significant responsibilities by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra Trust. In 2020, he assumed the role of Secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra Trust. Currently, Champat Rai oversees the crucial responsibilities related to the consecration program and the construction of the Ram Mandir.
During the Emergency declared by Indira Gandhi in 1975, Champat Rai, then a college lecturer, was arrested for actively opposing the Emergency and participating in the Ram Janmabhoomi Andolan. He spent about 18 months in various jails across Uttar Pradesh. After his release, he never returned home, resigned from his job, and joined the Vishva Hindu Parishad.
According to reports, Champat Rai’s family members revealed that he actively participated in the Ram Janmabhoomi Andolan during the Emergency imposed by the Indira Gandhi government. As a result, he was arrested and spent about 18 months in various jails across Uttar Pradesh.
After the Supreme Court’s decision in 2019, Champat Rai has been actively involved in crucial roles related to the Ram Mandir. Recently, he shared his views on the controversy surrounding the construction of the new idol of Rama in Ayodhya, emphasizing that certain elements are exploiting the situation to spread misinformation in society.
Champat Rai’s life has been dedicated to social and political spheres, playing a vital role in shaping the future of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi. His struggle and dedication have proven significant for Indian society. As he continues to lead the way in the ongoing consecration program and the construction of the Ram Mandir, Champat Rai stands as a symbol of devotion and commitment to the cultural and spiritual heritage of India.
