Controversial Inauguration of Ayodhya TempleOn January 22, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate a three-story monument made of marble, sandstone, and teak. The structure boasts 44 gates and 392 intricately-carved pillars, situated on a vast 70-acre plot. However, the controversial inauguration, positioned atop the ruins of a 16th-century mosque, signifies more than just an architectural milestone. It marks the fulfillment of a three-decade promise by Modi, his ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, and other Hindu nationalist groups. This event stands as a significant political testament, emphasizing Hindu supremacy over Indian Muslims.The town of Ayodhya in northern india was historically home to the Babri Masjid, a mosque built in 1527. Erected by a general associated with the Mughal Emperor Babur, the mosque served as a rare surviving example of early Mughal Empire architecture. For over 300 years, Muslims,...

 India's Prime Minister Modi Inaugurates Hindu Temple in AyodhyaIndia's Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated on Monday a giant new Hindu temple, which is built on the site where a historic mosque was destroyed decades ago by radical Hindus, in the north Indian pilgrimage town of Ayodhya.The contentious place of worship in the state of Uttar Pradesh stands on the razed site of the 16th-century Babri mosque, which was pulled down by Hindu fanatics in 1992, sparking widespread riots in which more than 2,000 people died.The incident also boosted the political fortunes of the Hindu nationalist bjp party, led by Modi, in Hindu-majority India, leading it to form its first government in 1996.Hindus believe the mosque was built at the site of the birthplace of their god Ram.Radical Hindu groups have compared its significance to that of Mecca for Muslims or the Vatican for Christians.The Ram temple at Ayodhya has been one of the BJP's long-stan...