The First Kar Sevak: Kameshwar Chaupal’s Brick of Unity in the Ram Mandir’s Foundation
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The Ram Janmabhoomi movement is a saga of devotion, struggle, and an indomitable spirit that spans generations. Among the many individuals who played a pivotal role in this historic journey, one name holds a unique place — Kameshwar Chaupal. His unwavering dedication to Bhagwan Ram earned him the title of the First Kar Sevak when he had the honour of laying the foundation stone for the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on November 9, 1989.
Born in the flood-prone region of what is now Supaul, Bihar, Kameshwar Chaupal’s early life struggles compounded by limited educational resources. Despite these challenges, he remained determined to pursue education. His father’s decision to bring a teacher to their village sparked an educational movement that changed the course of his life. Eager to expand his knowledge, he moved out for further studies, where he was introduced to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) through Hriday Narayan Yadav, a teacher and activist. Inspired by the Sangh’s ideology, Chaupal became actively involved, rising through the ranks from Gana Shikshak and Mukhya Karyavahak to a full-time Pracharak. His dedication also led him to serve the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) in various capacities, eventually playing a crucial role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.
Chaupal saw in Shri Ram’s life and teachings a model for bridging gaps between people from all walks of life. Just as Prabhu Shri Ram brought together individuals from the oppressed classes, fostering a sense of unity and self-confidence, Chaupal was inspired to promote this vision of collective strength. He believed that the devotion to Ram could unite people from all sections of society, allowing them to work together for a common cause. By invoking the legacy of Shri Ram, he envisioned a society where everyone, regardless of their background, could stand together, empowered by the spirit of Ram Rajya.
As a young man drawn to the ideals of the RSS and later the VHP, Chaupal found his calling in a movement that sought to restore not only a temple but also a sense of cultural pride and unity among Hindus. He coined the slogan "Roti ke Saath Ram”. His dedication earned him the honour of laying the first brick of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, a symbolic act that sent a powerful message to the nation about the unity of Hindus beyond caste boundaries. The significance of a Dalit performing this act went beyond religious devotion — it was a bold step toward social reform, breaking barriers and reinforcing the belief that, in the vision of Hindutva, all Hindus, regardless of caste, hold an equal place, especially before Ram. He advocated for Ramcharitmanas who has questioned that not everyone is equal. Moreover, he emphasised that it did not Dalits and backward classes but said, “रामचरित मानस के शुरुआत में ही लिखा है, सिया राम मय सब जग जानी, कर... कर हूं प्रणाम।' इसमें शूद्र को अलग नहीं किया गया है।”
In addition, he has often credited the values instilled in him by the Sangh, particularly the belief that all Hindus are equal and must unite against divisive forces. His journey also reflects a larger transformation. Through persistent efforts, the VHP and RSS have worked to heal deep-rooted social divisions that have existed for centuries. Their initiatives, such as the Dharma Sansad’s declaration that caste discrimination has no place in Hindu society, have played a crucial role in fostering a stronger sense of unity.
Unlike many who fade into history after a single moment of prominence, Chaupal remained steadfast in his commitment to service, embedding himself in the political and social landscape of India. His advocacy for unity and empowerment extended beyond his involvement in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. He contested elections against Ram Vilas Paswan from the Rosera reserved seat in 1991 but was unsuccessful. In 1995, he contested from Bakhri, a stronghold of the Communist Party, but faced defeat once again. However, his dedication to the cause did not waver, and in 2002, the BJP appointed him as a member of the Bihar Legislative Council. He served in this capacity for 12 consecutive years.
His devotion was not limited to Shri Ram but also to Bharat, the motherland. Dr. Rajeev Kumar Singh, a senior doctor at Patna Medical College and Hospital, reminisced about an incident in 1992 when Chaupal visited Khagaria. During a programme with young selfless volunteers, he posed a thought-provoking question to children aged 10 to 14: "If God were to appear before you, what would you ask for?" While some children requested gold, and others asked for money, Chaupal, after hearing their responses, shared a prayer with them. He recited, "Namaste Sada," and then conveyed a powerful message to the children. He told them that nothing was greater than the nation, and nothing could surpass the honour of being born in the sacred land of Bharat. This land, he said, was so divine that even the gods longed to be born here. His words made it clear that if one were to ask for anything from God, it should be the blessing to be born in India, as there was nothing more sacred or important than patriotism.
Chaupal has passed away but his story is more than just about a temple. It is about the power of belief, the breaking of societal chains, and the idea that devotion knows no caste. His journey from a village in Bihar to the heart of Ayodhya’s history is a reminder that the spirit of Shri Ram unites, rather than divides.
As millions step into the Ram Mandir today, they unknowingly walk on a path paved by countless sacrifices, and among them, one stands tall — the first Kar Sevak, Kameshwar Chaupal, whose hands laid the first stone of a dream fulfilled.
The Humble Beginning
Born in the flood-prone region of what is now Supaul, Bihar, Kameshwar Chaupal’s early life struggles compounded by limited educational resources. Despite these challenges, he remained determined to pursue education. His father’s decision to bring a teacher to their village sparked an educational movement that changed the course of his life. Eager to expand his knowledge, he moved out for further studies, where he was introduced to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) through Hriday Narayan Yadav, a teacher and activist. Inspired by the Sangh’s ideology, Chaupal became actively involved, rising through the ranks from Gana Shikshak and Mukhya Karyavahak to a full-time Pracharak. His dedication also led him to serve the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) in various capacities, eventually playing a crucial role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.
Act that earned Chaupal the title of "First Kar Sevak"
Chaupal saw in Shri Ram’s life and teachings a model for bridging gaps between people from all walks of life. Just as Prabhu Shri Ram brought together individuals from the oppressed classes, fostering a sense of unity and self-confidence, Chaupal was inspired to promote this vision of collective strength. He believed that the devotion to Ram could unite people from all sections of society, allowing them to work together for a common cause. By invoking the legacy of Shri Ram, he envisioned a society where everyone, regardless of their background, could stand together, empowered by the spirit of Ram Rajya.
As a young man drawn to the ideals of the RSS and later the VHP, Chaupal found his calling in a movement that sought to restore not only a temple but also a sense of cultural pride and unity among Hindus. He coined the slogan "Roti ke Saath Ram”. His dedication earned him the honour of laying the first brick of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, a symbolic act that sent a powerful message to the nation about the unity of Hindus beyond caste boundaries. The significance of a Dalit performing this act went beyond religious devotion — it was a bold step toward social reform, breaking barriers and reinforcing the belief that, in the vision of Hindutva, all Hindus, regardless of caste, hold an equal place, especially before Ram. He advocated for Ramcharitmanas who has questioned that not everyone is equal. Moreover, he emphasised that it did not Dalits and backward classes but said, “रामचरित मानस के शुरुआत में ही लिखा है, सिया राम मय सब जग जानी, कर... कर हूं प्रणाम।' इसमें शूद्र को अलग नहीं किया गया है।”
In addition, he has often credited the values instilled in him by the Sangh, particularly the belief that all Hindus are equal and must unite against divisive forces. His journey also reflects a larger transformation. Through persistent efforts, the VHP and RSS have worked to heal deep-rooted social divisions that have existed for centuries. Their initiatives, such as the Dharma Sansad’s declaration that caste discrimination has no place in Hindu society, have played a crucial role in fostering a stronger sense of unity.
Beyond the Temple – A Journey of Service
Unlike many who fade into history after a single moment of prominence, Chaupal remained steadfast in his commitment to service, embedding himself in the political and social landscape of India. His advocacy for unity and empowerment extended beyond his involvement in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. He contested elections against Ram Vilas Paswan from the Rosera reserved seat in 1991 but was unsuccessful. In 1995, he contested from Bakhri, a stronghold of the Communist Party, but faced defeat once again. However, his dedication to the cause did not waver, and in 2002, the BJP appointed him as a member of the Bihar Legislative Council. He served in this capacity for 12 consecutive years.
His devotion was not limited to Shri Ram but also to Bharat, the motherland. Dr. Rajeev Kumar Singh, a senior doctor at Patna Medical College and Hospital, reminisced about an incident in 1992 when Chaupal visited Khagaria. During a programme with young selfless volunteers, he posed a thought-provoking question to children aged 10 to 14: "If God were to appear before you, what would you ask for?" While some children requested gold, and others asked for money, Chaupal, after hearing their responses, shared a prayer with them. He recited, "Namaste Sada," and then conveyed a powerful message to the children. He told them that nothing was greater than the nation, and nothing could surpass the honour of being born in the sacred land of Bharat. This land, he said, was so divine that even the gods longed to be born here. His words made it clear that if one were to ask for anything from God, it should be the blessing to be born in India, as there was nothing more sacred or important than patriotism.
Chaupal has passed away but his story is more than just about a temple. It is about the power of belief, the breaking of societal chains, and the idea that devotion knows no caste. His journey from a village in Bihar to the heart of Ayodhya’s history is a reminder that the spirit of Shri Ram unites, rather than divides.
As millions step into the Ram Mandir today, they unknowingly walk on a path paved by countless sacrifices, and among them, one stands tall — the first Kar Sevak, Kameshwar Chaupal, whose hands laid the first stone of a dream fulfilled.
Bharati Web
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