How World Media Reported PM Modi's Role In Ayodhya Ram Temple Ceremony?

The new Ram Lalla idol was consecrated at the Ayodhya temple on Monday. It was led by Prime Minister Modi and watched by lakhs of people on television at their homes and in temples across the country. The religious fervour and festive atmosphere that gripped the temple town of Ayodhya was visible on social media platforms too as the Ram temple -- including prominent figures attending the grand launch event -- trended on X.

Here is how international media is currently covering this upcoming key event.

Several prominent foreign media outlets covered the historic Ram temple event, characterized by Prime Minister Modi as the "homecoming of Lord Ram." However, some attempted to shape a narrative suggesting that the event "evoked fear and painful memories."

The British public service broadcaster BBC reported that the Ram temple event stirred "fear and painful memories" among some Muslims in Ayodhya. The article referenced selected interviews conducted with members of the community before the event, highlighting concerns of potential tensions and the decision of some to send their children out of the city.

Qatar-based Al Jazeera delved into the temple's history, emphasizing its connection to "one of modern India's darkest chapters." While neglecting scientific and logical facts revealed during the ASI excavation, the publication characterized Monday's event as a symbolic act of Hindus relinquishing their religion to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, quoting writer and academic Apoorvanand.

The New York Times, known for its critical stance on India, particularly regarding achievements like the Mars Mission and Chandrayaan-3, published a piece titled 'Modi Opens a Giant Temple, a Triumph Toward a Hindu-First India.' The report labeled the Ayodhya Ram temple consecration as the "crowning achievement" of a national movement aiming at establishing Hindu supremacy in India.

CNN, in its coverage, referred to the event as a "painful reminder of religious divisions." While acknowledging the celebration by millions of Hindus, the report emphasized the minority Muslim population's perception of increased religious divisions under Modi's BJP government.