Temple administrator Pratham Kaushik said the decision was taken in view of the massive footfall expected during the year-end period. Nearly one million devotees are likely to visit Ujjain between December 31 and January 2, prompting officials to overhaul security and crowd-management plans. “The offline system will help regulate the inflow and ensure smoother arrangements,” Kaushik said.
With the New Year traditionally drawing one of the largest pilgrim gatherings at Mahakaleshwar, additional police personnel have been deployed across the temple premises and surrounding areas. A detailed movement plan has been prepared for devotees to avoid congestion and ensure a continuous darshan flow.
To accommodate those unable to obtain permissions in advance, the committee has introduced a mobile Bhasma Aarti viewing system. Designated points have been created along the route to allow pilgrims to witness the ritual from a distance without entering the main hall.
The temple has also announced a revised darshan route for the high-rush period. Devotees will enter through the Triveni Museum, proceed via Mahakal Lok to Maan Sarovar, and move through the tunnel leading to Ganesh Mandapam before exiting near Bachhda Ganesh Temple. Entry will be permitted only after offline forms are verified and cleared based on capacity.
In anticipation of the large turnout, the temple committee has increased laddu prasad production from the usual 30–40 quintals to over 50 quintals. Additional facilities such as shoe stands, drinking water points and sanitation units have been set up to manage the surge. Officials have advised visitors to plan their travel early and arrive well in advance to avoid last-minute inconvenience.
