Dr. Ram Vilas Vedanti, a figure whose life was deeply intertwined with the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and Indian politics, passed away on Monday at the age of 67. The veteran leader, who also served as a former Member of Parliament (MP) from Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh, breathed his last at a hospital in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh.
Hospital officials confirmed that Vedanti, who was in Rewa to narrate a Ramkatha (stories of Lord Rama), was admitted after his health deteriorated on Sunday. He had reportedly been unwell for some time, suffering from blood poisoning (septicemia) and kidney failure, before succumbing to a heart attack.
A Pillar of the Ram Temple Movement
Dr. Vedanti was widely regarded as a key architect and leading orator of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi movement, participating actively in the struggle since the 1980s. He was a member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas and often acknowledged for his significant contribution to the movement that culminated in the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
His association with the movement was deep and unwavering, earning him immense respect within the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and among his followers.
Political and Spiritual Life
Beyond his spiritual work as a revered saint of the Vashishth Ashram in Ayodhya, Dr. Vedanti also had a notable political career. He was elected as a Lok Sabha MP from the Pratapgarh constituency in 1998 on a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ticket, known for raising issues concerning the Hindu community in Parliament.
His disciples confirmed that his mortal remains will be brought to Ayodhya, where the final rites are scheduled to be performed on Tuesday morning at the Saryu river ghat.
Condolences Pour In
News of his demise brought an outpouring of condolences from across the political and religious spectrum.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep grief over the loss, calling his passing an "irreparable loss to the spiritual world and Sanatan culture." The Chief Minister stated that Vedanti's life of sacrifice and dedication to religion, society, and the nation will continue to inspire generations.
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath condoles the demise of former BJP MP Ram Vilas Das Vedanti. pic.twitter.com/IOzBz5SgX9
— ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2025
Madhya Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla also conveyed his sorrow, highlighting Vedanti's life as an "example of saintliness, patriotism, and unwavering dedication to religion."
