New Delhi witnessed a significant cultural milestone on Tuesday as Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan unveiled the book ‘Chalice of Ambrosia: Ram Janmabhoomi – Challenge and Response’ authored by former government secretary Surendra Kumar Pachauri. The event, held at the Vice President’s Enclave, drew attention to the enduring saga of Lord Ram’s birthplace.
In his keynote address, Radhakrishnan praised the book for its balanced and scholarly depiction of the centuries-long struggle to reclaim Ram Janmabhoomi. ‘This volume captures the essence of faith intertwined with history, presented without sensationalism,’ he noted. He described the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya as a pivotal chapter in India’s civilizational journey, where faith, history, law, and democracy converged with dignity.
‘No other temple holds the unique significance of the one built on the Janmabhoomi,’ the Vice President emphasized. He portrayed Lord Ram as the soul of India and its dharma, underscoring that truth always triumphs and righteousness never yields. Referencing Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of Ram Rajya, he highlighted it as a beacon of justice, equality, and dignity.
Radhakrishnan reflected on the protracted legal battle over Ram Janmabhoomi, calling it a painful yet testament to India’s democratic robustness. ‘In other nations, such matters might be unimaginable, but here, despite nationwide faith, land was allotted solely on evidence and due process,’ he said. The 2019 Supreme Court verdict realized long-held dreams of millions, marking a historic turning point and restoring Indian self-respect.
Delving into historiography, he stressed the need for emotional balance and fidelity to facts. Pachauri’s work excellently chronicles the modern movement, ensuring future generations remember the sacrifices. He cited Archaeological Survey of India findings of pre-existing structures that influenced the judgment, followed by positive public response and the trust’s crowdfunding success, raising over ₹3,000 crore globally.
Sharing a personal anecdote, Radhakrishnan recalled his mother’s participation in the 1990s shila nyas. He commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in presenting the temple’s revival as a mature democratic and cultural achievement, with the 2023 flag hoisting evoking national emotion. Lord Ram’s universal appeal spans from Ayodhya to Rameshwaram, Fiji, and Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, teaching true greatness lies in virtues and winning hearts, not conquests. He urged citizens to embrace these ideals, congratulating the author and hoping the book reaches wide audiences.