World News for Students of English

26-01-2024 07:00

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a new Hindu temple in Ayodhya, replacing a mosque demolished by Hindu radicals over three decades ago.

The temple holds deep religious significance, symbolizing Lord Ram’s return to his supposed birthplace. Modi emphasized the fulfillment of a long-cherished dream and he played a central role in the consecration ceremony, marked by rituals and offerings. The event drew 8,000 guests and numerous pilgrims, while Ayodhya underwent a significant government-funded transformation. Some view it as a divine moment, while others criticize it as a political gimmick ahead of upcoming elections. The construction’s association with Hindu nationalism raises concerns about India’s secular identity. The temple’s completion is expected next year. The historical disputes over the Ayodhya site date back a century, marked by the 1992 mosque demolition and subsequent legal battles.

Difficult words: consecration (making something sacred), gimmick (a trick or scheme often used to attract attention or promote something), secular (a system that’s not related to religious matters or doesn’t have a religious basis).

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