Ayodhya Ram Temple opening divides some Mumbai housing societies right down the middle

Representation Pic

The upcoming Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir on January 22, has sparked varied reactions and debates within some housing colonies and societies across Mumbai. The festivities have spread across communities, sparking both enthusiasm and contention in equal measure. In many housing societies, managing and cultural committees are actively organising pujas and cultural programmes to mark the occasion.

Circulars have been distributed, with some encouraging participation and others subtly questioning non-participation among tenants of all faiths. mid-day spoke to various society representatives and residents to understand the debate. Most individuals agreed to speak while requesting anonymity.

A resident from a society in Malad said, "The Ayodhya issue is sensitive due to polarisation and its history. It's crucial to approach such events with sensitivity, ensuring minority communities aren't marginalised. The debate in our society arose from an unofficial WhatsApp group message that labelled non-participants in the puja as atheists. This sparked discussions, with participants highlighting the importance of respecting diverse religious beliefs."

The festivities have crossed religious lines; committee representatives say it's a way to unite people. File pic

The managing committee of a society in Andheri said, "Celebrating the Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony is culturally and religiously significant, fostering unity and shared heritage transcending religious boundaries." Other residents of the same society, requesting anonymity said, "We come from a Hindu family and are not at all against the celebrations but what if we do not want to participate in it? Does our personal choice matter or the peer pressure that may coerce us into attending?"

A committee member from a society in Chembur said, "Our intention is not to impose any belief but to celebrate the diversity of our society. Inclusivity is key, and participating in such events helps bridge gaps among residents." The other members added, "The concern lies not in the religious background but in politicians politicising the Ram Mandir issue."

Residents in a Dadar society expressed concerns, with one resident saying, "While respecting those who want to celebrate, it's crucial to acknowledge the deep-rooted historical implications of the Ayodhya issue. I would rather light a diya in my home temple instead." A Borivli society with a mix of Catholics and Hindus also saw this debate unfold. A resident said, "I am a Catholic, not against the celebration, but attendance should not be mandatory."

Navigating the debate

As the debate intensifies, a managing committee member in Powai said, "Balancing celebrating cultural heritage and respecting individual choices is crucial. We must engage in open dialogue to understand diverse perspectives and find common ground that fosters harmony within our communities."

A Ghatkopar committee representative said, "One thing we can be proud of is that our society makes sure that the sentiments of the residents are not hurt and hence while releasing our society circular for the Ram Mandir Pran Prathisthan celebration, we made sure to mention that attending the celebration is one's own wish and no one should be forced."

A resident from Vakola said, "Our society is celebrating, but no one is forced to attend. Participation details are collected for dinner arrangements, and surprisingly, people from other religions have willingly decided to join the celebrations."

Expert comment

Advocate Jyotishwar Bhosale said, "In line with legal principles and cooperative ethos, participation in housing society events like Pran Pratishthan should be voluntary, respecting individual rights, especially in religious matters. Mandatory involvement or financial contributions violate both the Indian Constitution's protections and the Maharashtra Cooperative Societies Act's principles of voluntary membership and democratic control. Housing societies must honour these tenets, balancing collective activities with individual freedoms."

January 22
Day the Pran Pratishtha ceremony will be held