When Ram Mandir in Ayodhya was demolished by the barbaric army of Babur 500 years ago, Kshatriyas belonging to Suryavanshi race in Ayodhya and adjoining 105 villages took a vow not to wear turban and leather shoes.
The ancestors of these Kshatriyas took an oath to rebuild the Ram Temple which was destroyed by Babur. The turban (pagadi) is a symbol of pride for the Kshatriyas and not wearing it was a constant reminder that the vow to build the Ram Mandir remained unfulfilled.
Suryavanshi Kshatriyas took from that day to not use umbrellas or wear pagadi and wear leather shoes until the Ram temple was rebuilt. They have not worn their pagadis even for panchayats and marriages. All these Kshatriya families consider themselves as descendants of Bhagwan Ram.
However, their vow will meet a fruitful end on the historic day of 5 August 2020, when the foundation stone will be laid for the grand temple of Lord Ram.
Historicity behind this Vow
When the Mughals attacked Aydhoya they faced fierce resistance under the leadership of Thakur Gaj Singh to save the temple. However, after a fierce battle, they lost to the Mughals and Gaj Singh pledged not to wear a turban and shoes until the temple was rebuilt.
Today, Thakur Gaj Singh’s vow has been redeemed and the pledge taken by the ancestors of Suryavanshi Kshatriya made 500 years ago has been fulfilled.