By The Sampadak Express
Acharya Satyendra Das, the revered chief priest of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya, passed away at the age of 83 at Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS) in Lucknow. A press statement from the institute confirmed his death. Das had been undergoing treatment at SGPGIMS after being admitted on February 3 in critical condition due to a brain stroke suffered the previous day. The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, had visited the hospital on February 4 to inquire about the priest’s health.
A prominent figure in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, Acharya Satyendra Das was the chief priest during the significant events of December 6, 1992, when the Babri Masjid was demolished. At the time, he moved the idols of Lord Ram to the nearby Fakire Mandir before the demolition and later placed them in the makeshift temple at the Ram Janmabhoomi site. Following the consecration of the new Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Das continued his role as the chief priest, a position he held with great reverence.
On January 11, Acharya Satyendra Das had celebrated the first anniversary of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the newly constructed temple, describing the occasion as “very beautiful.”
5 Key Facts About Acharya Satyendra Das:
1. Spiritual Commitment: Acharya Satyendra Das dedicated his life to spiritual service, embracing the path of religion at the young age of 20.
2. Health Challenges: In addition to the brain stroke, he had long battled serious health issues, including diabetes and high blood pressure.
3. Media Presence: Known for his openness, he was a frequent figure in the media, offering insights on temple developments and religious matters in Ayodhya.
4. Recent Hospitalization: After being initially admitted to a private hospital in Ayodhya, he was referred to SGPGIMS in Lucknow for advanced care.
5. Documentary Appearance: Das featured in the 2024 documentary series “The Battle of Ayodhya,” which delves into the complex history of the Ayodhya dispute.
Acharya Satyendra Das’s passing marks the end of an era in the spiritual and cultural history of Ayodhya. His legacy will continue to be remembered by devotees and the broader community.
