BJP’S Prime Misterial candidate LK Advani on Wednesday will release Sri Ram Mandir — Hindi version of a Telugu epic film that does not dwell on Ayodhya or the events of 1992 and, certainly does not cramp his new centrist image.
Branded as a movie that speaks about Hindu-Muslim unity, it is about the 400-year-old temple in Bhadrachalam (AP) that is closely connected with the life of saint-composer Bhakta Ramadas, known as Gopanna.
Gopanna was the Tasildar (revenue official) of Bhadrachalam who was accused of utilising money from the treasury to build this temple and was imprisoned in a dungeon by Sultan Tanisha at Golconda.
Lord Ram is said to have miraculously given the Sultan the money spent by Gopanna, after which he was released. Gopanna then became Bhadrachala Ramadasa, and went on to compose innumerable songs in Telugu in praise of Ram.
There are, of course, hints in the film that could be interpreted politically in line with Advani’s view that the Ram Mandir could come up at the disputed site in Ayodhya only if the Muslims give up claim and Hindus reciprocate in equal measure.
Advani wanted to see the full version of the film before agreeing to release it. Of late, he has been silent on issues like the Ram temple, which has taken a back seat after Sangh groups like the VHP took up the issue of protecting the Ram Setu. He wants the BJP to focus on three issues — good governance, security and development.
{{/usCountry}}Advani wanted to see the full version of the film before agreeing to release it. Of late, he has been silent on issues like the Ram temple, which has taken a back seat after Sangh groups like the VHP took up the issue of protecting the Ram Setu. He wants the BJP to focus on three issues — good governance, security and development.
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