By – Prakarsh Kastwar
Ayodhya, India – February 21, 2024: Acharya Satyendra Das, the chief priest of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple, passed away on Wednesday morning at SGPGI Hospital in Lucknow. He breathed his last at approximately 7 AM on the auspicious occasion of Magha Purnima. The hospital confirmed his demise, stating that despite continuous medical care, he could not be saved.
Hospitalization and Treatment
Acharya Satyendra Das was admitted to Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGI) on February 3, 2024, after suffering a severe brain stroke. He was placed under intensive care in the neurology ward’s HDU (High Dependency Unit). According to Dr. R.K. Dhiman, the director of SGPGI, the chief priest was receiving constant medical attention, but his health condition remained critical. In addition to the stroke, he was battling multiple other health complications.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had visited the hospital a few days ago to inquire about his health and offer his support.
Shock and Mourning in Ayodhya
The passing of Acharya Satyendra Das has left Ayodhya and the entire Ram Janmabhoomi community in deep sorrow. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust expressed its grief over his demise, recognizing his invaluable contribution to the temple and its traditions. Several prominent saints, seers, and devotees have paid their respects and extended condolences to his disciples and followers. The temples and monasteries of Ayodhya are observing mourning in his honor.
Service to Shri Ram Janmabhoomi
Acharya Satyendra Das had been serving as the chief priest of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple since 1993. His devotion and unwavering commitment to Lord Ram and the temple’s spiritual duties earned him immense respect among devotees. His contribution to temple rituals, traditions, and administration was unparalleled. His passing is seen as an irreplaceable loss to the spiritual and religious community of Ayodhya.
Tributes from Religious and Political Leaders
Several dignitaries have expressed their condolences on the demise of Acharya Satyendra Das. The general secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, Champat Rai, and other key officials of the temple management expressed deep sorrow over his passing.
Shri Ram Mandir Construction Committee chairman Nripendra Mishra, along with trustees of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, Ayodhya royal family leader Vimalendra Mohan Pratap Mishra, Dr. Anil Mishra, and Gopal Ji, also conveyed their grief and paid tribute to the departed soul.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath shared an emotional tribute on social media, stating, “The passing of Param Ram Bhakt Acharya Satyendra Das Maharaj, chief priest of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple, is an immense loss to society and the spiritual world. I offer my heartfelt condolences. May Lord Shri Ram grant peace to his noble soul and provide strength to his disciples and followers in this moment of grief. Om Shanti!”
Final Rites and Last Respects
The final rites of Acharya Satyendra Das will be conducted in Ayodhya with full religious honors. Devotees, religious leaders, and temple authorities are expected to participate in the funeral procession to pay their last respects.
His departure marks the end of an era of devoted service to Shri Ram Janmabhoomi, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of devotees and spiritual leaders.
May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti.