Faizabad: Asserting the temple movement had brought unity among Hindus, Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani today (April 5, 2004) said a grand Ram temple would be built at Ayodhya without causing bitterness to anyone.

"On the basis of talks held during the past six to eight months, I can assure you that a grand temple will be constructed at Lord Ram's birthplace without any bitterness and confrontation," he said.

Advani said his assurance stemmed from the talks held in this regard, adding, "The concerned parties do not want publicity as it will put undue pressure on them."

Referring to his first Yatra from Somnath to Ayodhya in 1990, he said, "I could not reach Ayodhya as I was arrested at Samastipur."

Terming the Ram temple movement as "fantastic", Advani said, "Critics attack us saying this generated tension in the country. They forget that this kept Hindus together at a time when the Centre had unleashed the reservation policy pitting one caste against another."

"Villagers all over the country worship shilas (bricks) to send these to Ayodhya for temple construction. This binds the people."