Ayodhya: In a significant decision, the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has announced that there will be no appointment of a new chief priest (Mukhya Pujari) at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya following the demise of Acharya Satyendra Das. The Trust’s General Secretary, Champat Rai, stated that the decision was taken out of deep respect for the late Acharya, who he said was irreplaceable.
“There can be no one like Acharya Satyendra Das. Referring to anyone else as the chief priest would be an exaggeration,” Rai remarked. He revealed that six months ago, discussions were held with Acharya Satyendra Das regarding the appointment of a successor, but the veteran priest had responded that there was no need for it.
Acharya Satyendra Das Passed Away on February 11
Acharya Satyendra Das, who served as the chief priest of Ram Mandir since 1993, passed away on February 11, 2025, following a stroke. He had been hospitalized in Ayodhya and later transferred to SGPGI, Lucknow, for advanced treatment. According to hospital officials, Das was also suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the hospital on February 4, enquiring about his health and issuing necessary instructions to the medical team.
Champat Rai noted that no one of similar stature or scholarly standing is currently available to take on the role. “There is no one of Acharya Satyendra Das’s age or wisdom in the temple right now,” he said, also acknowledging that Das received only ₹100 per month as salary for his service—a testament to his dedication.
Lifelong Devotion to Lord Ram
Acharya Satyendra Das played an active role in temple rituals and was closely associated with the Ram Mandir’s construction and religious activities from the outset. Mourning his demise, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow, saying, “The passing of Acharya Satyendra Das Ji is a profound loss. His life, fully devoted to Lord Shri Ram, will always be remembered for his invaluable spiritual and social contributions.”
Trust to Continue Worship Without a Chief Priest
The Trust’s decision not to appoint a new chief priest reflects a shift in how temple rituals will be managed going forward. Religious functions will continue under the guidance of senior priests, but no single individual will hold the title of Mukhya Pujari. The focus will remain on collective worship, maintaining the sanctity and spiritual heritage of the Ram Mandir.
