P Lal’s ‘Historicity & Divinity of Shri Ram - Struggle to Reclaim Ramjanmabhoomi’ offers a compelling exploration of the historical and divine dimensions of Lord Ram, while also delving into the centuries-long struggle to reclaim the sacred birthplace of one of Hinduism’s most revered figures. This book is an ambitious synthesis of historical inquiry, religious belief, and the socio-political complexities surrounding the Ramjanmabhoomi movement, making it a significant contribution to both historical literature and contemporary discourse.
The book begins with a rigorous examination of Shri Ram's historicity, questioning the prevailing timelines of human evolution in light of ancient Hindu texts. Lal presents an intriguing hypothesis that challenges the Darwinian theory of evolution, proposing that humans may have existed far earlier than modern science currently acknowledges. The author meticulously calculates that Lord Ram might have lived around 18 million years ago, according to Hindu cosmology, which situates his birth in the Treta Yuga of the 24th Mahayuga. This audacious claim, supported by references to archaeological discoveries and ancient wisdom contained in Hindu scriptures, sets the tone for a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is controversial.
Lal does not shy away from the limitations of modern scientific tools in verifying the existence of figures like Lord Ram. He argues that the lack of archaeological evidence from such an ancient era is not a disproof but rather a challenge to current methodologies. The book also draws on the planetary alignments described in the Ramayana by Valmiki, using modern astronomical software to date Lord Ram’s birth to January 10, 5114 BCE. This intersection of ancient texts with modern technology provides a fascinating, albeit contentious, bridge between faith and science.
The book is not just a historical inquiry but also a reflection on the cultural and spiritual impact of Shri Ram across millennia. Lal highlights the widespread influence of Shri Ram’s story, as evidenced by the existence of Ramayanas in different languages and cultures around the world. This global resonance, according to the author, underscores Lord Ram’s status not just as a historical figure but as a divine entity whose legacy transcends geographical boundaries.
Central to Lal’s narrative is the struggle to reclaim Ramjanmabhoomi, which culminated in the Supreme Court’s landmark verdict in 2019. The author provides a detailed account of the legal battles, historical controversies, and the eventual construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Lal is critical of the narrative that the Supreme Court's decision was solely based on religious faith, arguing instead that the judgment was grounded in established legal principles. The book traces the evolution of this struggle over 500 years, culminating in the fulfillment of a long-cherished desire for millions of Hindus.
‘Historicity & Divinity of Shri Ram’ is not just a recounting of historical events but also a profound meditation on the role of faith in shaping human history. Lal presents Lord Ram as both a historical figure and a divine incarnation, urging readers to consider the deeper spiritual truths that transcend empirical evidence. The book’s epilogue, which details the construction of the Ram Temple and its significance for Hindus worldwide, resonates with a sense of closure and new beginnings.
As the book nears its release, it promises to spark debate and discussion, not only for its bold historical claims but also for its exploration of the intersection of faith, history, and national identity. P Lal’s work is likely to be regarded as a pivotal text for those interested in understanding the complexities of the Ramjanmabhoomi issue, and for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Lord Ram’s enduring legacy in the modern world.
In summary, ‘Historicity & Divinity of Shri Ram - Struggle to Reclaim Ramjanmabhoomi’ is an impressive and critical work that challenges conventional historical narratives while offering a rich, multidimensional portrait of Lord Ram. It is a must-read for scholars, devotees, and anyone interested in the ongoing dialogue between tradition and modernity.
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Historicity & Divinity of Shri Ram – Struggle to Reclaim Ramjanmabhoomi” by P Lal