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In the heart of Ayodhya, a distinctive bank operates where currency holds no value, and the returns for its 35,000 account-holders are rooted in peace of mind, faith, and spirituality. Named the “International Shree Sitaram Bank,” this spiritual institution draws attention from devotees and tourists visiting the newly constructed Ram temple.
Unique Spiritual Bank in Ayodhya, No Cash. Established in November 1970 by Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, the chief of the Shri Ramjanmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust, the bank boasts more than 35,000 account-holders globally, including India, the US, the UK, Canada, Nepal, Fiji, the UAE, and other countries. The deposits here are not in the form of traditional money but rather booklets inscribed with “Sitaram” on every page.
Managed by Punit Ram Das Maharaj, the bank holds a collection of 20,000 crore ‘Sitaram’ booklets contributed by devotees of Lord Ram. To open an account, one must write ‘Sitaram’ at least 5 lakh times, and a passbook is then issued. The bank has 136 branches across India and abroad, with account holders also sending booklets by post.
Ahead of LS polls, voters in Meghalaya receive ‘multiple’ electoral cards. Puneet Ram Das Maharaj explains the spiritual significance, stating that writing ‘Sitaram’ and depositing it in the bank is a form of prayer, akin to visiting temples for inner peace and spiritual fulfillment. The act is believed to be a way of recording one’s devotion, similar to the divine account of everyone’s deeds.
According to Puneet Ram Das, writing the name 84 lakh times is believed to lead to ‘Moksha’ or spiritual liberation. Devotees find solace and spiritual enrichment in this practice, considering it a profound way to connect with Lord Ram.
Jeetu Nagar from Gaya, Bihar, has been visiting the bank for 14 years, making it his sole form of prayer. He attests to its efficacy, stating that whenever he feels low or faces trouble, the practice brings solace. Suman Das from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, shares a similar sentiment, believing in the power of prayer through ‘Sitaram’ scribbles.
This unique spiritual bank, thriving on faith and devotion, underscores the diverse ways people seek connection and spiritual fulfillment in Ayodhya, especially in the wake of the consecration ceremony of the grand temple led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
