In a solemn farewell, Acharya Satyendra Das, the chief priest of Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir, was laid to rest with Jal Samadhi in the Saryu River on Thursday evening. The revered spiritual leader, who had served as the head priest of Ram Janmabhoomi since 1992, passed away at the age of 85 on Wednesday, following a brain stroke.

His final rites were performed in accordance with the traditions of the Ramanandi sect, which follows the practice of Jal Samadhi, a ritual where the deceased is immersed in water. His body was taken in a palanquin to the Tulsidas Ghat, where he received his last rites before being submerged into the river.

A Grand Procession to Honor the Spiritual Leader

Earlier in the day, the mortal remains of Acharya Satyendra Das were carried in a chariot through the streets of Ayodhya, allowing devotees and followers to pay their respects. His successor, Pradeep Das, explained the ritual, stating that heavy stones were tied to the body before immersion, ensuring it remained in the depths of the river, as per sect traditions.

PM Modi Pays Tribute to Acharya Satyendra Das

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep condolences on the passing of Acharya Satyendra Das, recognizing his lifelong dedication to Lord Ram and his immense contributions to the spiritual and religious life of the country.

"Acharya Satyendra Das dedicated his entire life to the service of Lord Ram. His scholarship in religious texts and rituals was remarkable. His invaluable contribution to our spiritual and social life will always be remembered with reverence," said PM Modi.

A Stalwart of the Ram Janmabhoomi Movement

Acharya Satyendra Das had been a pivotal figure in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, assuming the role of chief priest in March 1992, just nine months before the Babri Masjid demolition. A highly respected member of the Nirvani Akhara, he devoted his entire life to spiritual service and the preservation of Sanatan Dharma.

Born into a family deeply rooted in Hindu traditions, Acharya Satyendra Das embraced the path of devotion and asceticism from the age of 20. Over the decades, he played a crucial role in overseeing temple affairs, guiding religious ceremonies, and offering insights into the Ram Mandir construction process.

His presence was widely acknowledged in media circles, as he frequently addressed queries on temple developments, religious practices, and Ayodhya’s spiritual landscape. His deep knowledge and humble demeanor earned him the respect of devotees and religious scholars alike.

The Ritual of Jal Samadhi in the Ramanandi Sect

The Jal Samadhi ritual is an age-old tradition in the Ramanandi sect, followed by saints, monks, and ascetics who have dedicated their lives to spiritual service. Unlike cremation, this method involves submerging the body into a river, signifying the return of the physical form to the five elements of nature.

According to Pradeep Das, his successor, the process involves:

• Tying heavy stones to the deceased to ensure the body remains submerged.
• Performing last rites at a sacred riverbank, as per Vedic customs.
• Chanting of mantras and prayers by fellow saints and followers.

The Saryu River, considered highly sacred in Hinduism, was chosen as the final resting place for Acharya Satyendra Das, ensuring his soul’s liberation and unification with divine consciousness.

A Great Loss to the Spiritual Community

The passing of Acharya Satyendra Das marks the end of an era for the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and the spiritual leadership of Ayodhya. As a guardian of traditions, he played a crucial role in shaping the Ram Mandir’s religious proceedings and guiding the devotee community.

With his successor, Pradeep Das, now taking charge, the legacy of Acharya Satyendra Das is expected to continue, ensuring that his spiritual teachings and devotion remain at the heart of Ram Mandir’s religious practices.

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