Acharya Satyendra Das, the chief priest of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya, passed away on Monday at 83 at Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS) in Lucknow. His demise marks the end of an era, as he had been serving as the head priest of the revered temple for several decades.

Following a brain stroke on February 2, Acharya Satyendra Das was critically ill and admitted to the Neurology ward's HDU on February 3. On February 4, Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, stopped by SGPGIMS to ask on Acharya Satyendra Das's health.

Acharya Satyendra Das had been associated with the Ram Janmabhoomi since the early days of the temple movement and was instrumental in performing daily rituals and prayers at the site. His knowledge of scriptures and devotion to Lord Ram made him a revered figure among devotees.

His last rites will be performed with full traditional honors in Ayodhya. Temple authorities and the Uttar Pradesh government are making arrangements for devotees to pay their final respects.

The passing of Acharya Satyendra Das marks a significant loss for the religious community in Ayodhya, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

The 2024 documentary series "The Battle of Ayodhya," which examines the Ayodhya controversy, including Acharya Satyendra Das.