Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi Temple’s Chief Priest Acharya Satyendra Das Passes Away at 83
Acharya Satyendra Das, the revered chief priest of Ayodhya's Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, passed away at 83 after battling health issues, leaving a legacy in the temple’s history.
Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi Temple’s Chief Priest Acharya Satyendra Das Passes Away at 83, Marking the End of an Era in Temple’s Spiritual History
Acharya Satyendra Das, the main priest of Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhy, died at the age of 83 in Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS) in Lucknow. His demise confirmed the press release issued by the Institute. Its passage means the end of the era because it was closely linked to the temple and its important events for decades.
The main minister Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath visited 4 February SGPGIMS to ask the health of Achary Satendra Das. Despite advanced medical treatment, his health continued to deteriorate due to multiple diseases, including diabetes, high blood pressure and the consequences of stroke.
Acharya Satyendra Das was a key figure in the history of RAM Janmabhoomi. He served as the main priest on 6 December 1992, when Babri Masjid was demolished. Before demolition, he moved idols to the nearby Fakire Mandir to ensure their security. After demolition, he placed idols in a temporary temple in Janambhoomi and continued to perform rituals and loans there. After the great ceremony of the new RAM temple in Ayodhy, his main priest remained and supervised the religious activities of the temple.
On January 11, 2025, Acharya Satyendra Das celebrated the first anniversary of Pran Pratishhtha in the temple. He described the celebrations as “very beautiful” and spiritually uplifting opportunity and emphasized the importance of the temple facility in fulfilling the aspirations of millions of devotees.
Five key facts about Acharya Satyendra das
Soon a spiritual commitment: Acharya Satyendra Das dedicated his life to religious service at the age of 20. His deep devotion led him to become one of the most respected spiritual characters in Ayodhya.
Health Challenges: In recent years, he has fought serious health conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure and complications of stroke, which eventually led to his hospitalization.
Media engagement: As an informed and accessible religious leader, the media often sought him for the knowledge of the development of the temple and religious matters in Ayodhya.
Recent hospitalization: Initially, it was admitted to a private hospital in Ayodhya, and later because of its deteriorating condition, SGPGIMS in Lucknow for advanced medical care were dependent.
Documentary performance: Acharya Satyendra Das was performed in the documentary series 2024 “Battle of Ayodhya”, which explored the historical and religious significance of the dispute over Ayodhya.
Its passage is a significant loss for the Hindu community and the devoted Lord RAM. His contribution to the RAM Janmabhoomi movement and his devoted service of the temple will be remembered for future generations.
