Raghunath Temple – The Abode of Ram & A Treasure House of Learning

Today is Ram Navami i.e., the birthday anniversary of Lord Ram who we all consider as the epitome of manhood. According to Hindu scriptures, he is a gentleman who gave due respect to everyone. His mere aura is enough to drive away all negative forces surrounding us.

Our ancestors have time and again ensured dedicating a temple for him in various parts of the country and Raghunath Temple in Jammu is one such. On the occasion of the birth anniversary of Lord Ram, Thought Habitat explores Raghunath Temple, which is one of the lesser known temples dedicated to Lord Ram in India.

Jammu & Kashmir – The Land of Spirituality

Jammu & Kashmir as a state is always known for militancy. However, less do we know that it is a land of spirituality and Raghunath Temple in Jammu is a testimony. The temple construction was initiated in 1835 by Maharaja Gulab Singh and completed by his son Ranbir Singh in 1860. The legend says that it was a tribute to his guru Baba Prem Das. Some even say Gulab Singh initiated the temple construction in 1822.

Similarly, we have many such temples in Jammu & Kashmir such as Martand Sun Temple in Anantnag. These temples were not only places of worship, but also a learning centre. Students from across the globe came here to study various subjects and they became scholars.

The Treasure House of Manuscripts

The temple houses abundant Sharada manuscripts and is without doubt the most divine place on earth. During Ranbir Singh’s reign the temple housed a paathshala that welcomed students from all castes and classes. According to historical records, the temple is said to have had a library with 6000 manuscripts.

These manuscripts were of different subjects namely – Vedic Literature, Grammar, Lexicography, Yoga, Medicine, Jyotisha, Architecture and a lot more. In addition to this, Ranbir Singh is said to have funded a translation centre which translated Arabic and Persian manuscripts into Sanskrit too.

Acts of Terrorism in Raghunath Temple in the Recent Past

Islamic terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Taiba was behind two attacks in 2002 at this temple premises. The first attack took place on March 2002 when two suicide bombers killed 11 people (including our jawans). Then the second took place on November 2002 when terrorists hurled grenades and fired indiscriminately at Hindu civilians as well as our jawans guarding the temple. Nearly 14 people died and 43 were injured

Jawans Guarding the Abode of Ram

Despite all the militancy and religious terrorism, we are still able to visit the abode of Ram safely and that is because of the valour which our jawans are showcasing. Our armed forces are guarding this abode in full strength so that we all can pray to the almighty in peace and tranquility. May the abode or Ram relive its days of glory and become the centre of learning yet again.

Jai Shree Ram!

Read more about Ram Navmi in this blog.