The objection centres on a ritual locally referred to as Haldi Khela, in which around 50 to 100 women gather daily after morning worship during Shiv Navratri, sing bhajans, dance to drum beats, and apply turmeric to one another while symbolically celebrating the marriage of Lord Shiva.
Who raised objections and why
Senior temple priest Mahesh Sharma said the practice violates Sanatan traditions and should be stopped immediately. He argued that Shiv Navratri is meant exclusively for worship, adoration and spiritual resolve, beginning from Panchami, and not for celebratory rituals resembling wedding customs.
“There is no mention in the Shiva Purana or other scriptures of celebrating Shiva’s marriage on Shivratri in this manner. Turning it into a spectacle by playing with turmeric makes a sacred observance appear frivolous,” Sharma said, adding that the tradition could also pose hygiene and safety concerns within the temple premises.
Where and when it is happening
The ritual has been taking place inside the Mahakal Temple complex during the nine days preceding Mahashivratri, a period when special daily adornments of Lord Mahakal are performed. During these days, Lord Koteshwar is worshipped in the morning as part of the temple’s established customs.
How the practice began
According to devotees, the tradition began around 11 years ago, initiated by women who regularly visit the temple. They associate the nine-day adornment period and the groom-like decoration of Lord Mahakal on Mahashivratri with the symbolic celebration of Shiv Vivah. As part of this belief, they began marking the occasion in a manner similar to pre-wedding turmeric rituals.
Temple administration response
The temple administration has confirmed receiving formal complaints about the turmeric celebration. Officials indicated that the activity is being reviewed and is likely to be stopped. An official order in this regard is expected soon, sources said.
Context and implications
Traditionally, the temple observes the offering of ubtan to Lord Koteshwar during Shiv Navratri, while Mahashivratri marks the elaborate adornment of Lord Mahakal as a groom, including the offering of a sehra. Priests maintain that these rituals should not be expanded beyond scriptural prescriptions.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between evolving devotional expressions and traditional interpretations of temple rituals, a debate that temple authorities may now need to formally resolve.
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