Building legacy of faith, says Suvendu as foundation stone laid of Nandigram Ram temple
Times of India | 7 April 2025
123 Nandigram: Amid loud chants of "Jai Shri Ram" by supporters and devotees, the foundation stone of a Ram temple in Nandigram's Sonachura was laid in the presence of Bengal leader of opposition Suvendu Adhikari on Sunday. The event began in the morning with traditional rituals and kirtans, followed by a procession of over a hundred local women carrying drums and conch shells. The stone was laid by Kalpana Maity, widow of BJP worker Debabrata Maity, who died in post-election violence in 2021.
"The auspicious ceremony of the ground-breaking and foundation stone laying for the temple dedicated to Lord Ram after the historic holy Ram Janmabhoomi temple at Ayodhya was done in accordance with Indian Sanatani culture and religious traditions," Adhikari said.
The BJP MLA called it a historic and joyous occasion for all who held Ram's values of righteousness, courage and compassion close to their hearts. "The construction of this temple is not just the laying of bricks and mortar, it is the building of a legacy of faith, unity and cultural pride. I am deeply grateful to be a part of this momentous event that will inspire generations to come," Adhikari said.
Following the ceremony, Adhikari visited Janakinath temple, where he offered prayers and distributed prasad.
Local Trinamool Congress functionaries alleged that the land was purchased using MP quota funds and was originally intended for a hospital serving martyrs' families. They called the construction a politically motivated move.
Adhikari said there would be facilities like Ayurveda and allopathic dispensaries adjacent to the temple. He also talked about BJP's governance in 21 states and recent victory in Delhi, while expressing confidence about the party's future prospects in Bengal.
In Midnapore, former Bengal BJP president Dilip Ghosh drove a bike to Dherua Bazaar after participating in the Ram Navami puja at Gopanandini temple. During his morning walk, he had declared: "Those whose hearts race when they hear ‘Jai Shri Ram' should not step out today. They might have a heart attack, because all of society is chanting ‘Jai Shri Ram' today, and it is increasing every year. It's all happening by Lord Ram's will, and it will continue to do so."
BJP's Locket Chatterjee claimed a rally she was leading from New Town was stopped by police, prompting a change of route. She was seen engaging in a verbal spat with cops after the rally was halted near Keshtopur. Police sources said barricades were set up at Keshtopur crossing after the procession tried to enter Salt Lake.