The inauguration of the new Ram temple in Ayodhya this month marks a turning point in India’s history. While it’s being hailed as a “momentous step” in the country’s “civilizational journey” and celebrated with jubilation by some, it has simultaneously signaled the worrying conflation of state and religion and ushered in a flurry of incidents of communal violence. In this moment, it is necessary to remember the controversial history of the temple - where it stands, what stood before and why it matters.
To that end, filmmaker Anand Patwardhan directed a pathbreaking documentary called Ram Ke Naam (In The Name of God) in 1992. It remains relevant today - attempts to screen it at universities in India this week have created a furore, making it more important than ever to safeguard freedom of speech.
We will screen the 75-minute film from 6 pm onwards. The screening will be followed by a discussion with Anand Patwardhan over Zoom.
