A road-widening project in Ujjain has run into an unusual hurdle after an eight-foot Hanuman idol could not be shifted despite the temple structure being dismantled.

An eight-foot Hanuman idol has become the latest hurdle in a road-widening project in Ujjain, with municipal engineers and archaeologists struggling to find a way to shift the idol without damaging it.The idol is located in the busy Bada Sarafa market, along the stretch between Kanthal and Gopal Mandir.

It currently stands covered under a waterproof tent after the temple around it was dismantled.The road is being widened from 9 metres to 15 metres ahead of the Simhastha 2028 religious congregation. Several religious sites reportedly fall along the route, making the expansion particularly sensitive.

Temple demolished, idol remains

According to the newspaper report, the plan appeared straightforward: dismantle the temple, relocate the Hanuman idol to a new site near an old water tank at Chhatri Chowk, and then proceed with the road work.The temple's boundary wall and spire were carefully dismantled a few days ago after priests and members of local Hindu organisations gathered for a final aarti.The problem emerged when officials attempted to move the idol.The eight-foot idol reportedly could not be shifted even after efforts were made, leaving officials looking for an alternative solution.

Road project remains stalled

The stalled idol-shifting work has now affected the road-widening project involving municipal engineers and archaeologists.The location is also attracting devotees, with people gathering to seek darshan of what some describe as a “miracle” involving the immovable idol.

Officials are now expected to work out a technically and religiously acceptable way to relocate the idol so that the road-widening project can move forward.The immediate focus remains on protecting the idol while finding a solution for the infrastructure work linked to the Simhastha 2028 preparations.

Madhya Pradesh is set to mark Krishna Janmashtami with a state-wide cultural programme on Friday, September 4, with events planned at 111 locations across 55 districts. The celebrations, being organised under the ‘Shri Krishna Parv’ initiative of the Shri Krishna Pathey Nyas under the Culture Department, will combine devotional programmes with dance, theatre, classical performances and regional folk traditions.

The initiative is being held under the theme ‘Ghar-Ghar Gokul, Ghar-Ghar Gopal’. According to the organisers, more than 7,500 Krishna temples across the state will receive special decorations, while over 1,500 local artists are expected to participate in performances depicting episodes from Krishna’s life, devotional traditions and philosophical teachings.

101 Children to Dress as Radha-Krishna

A special Janmashtami programme has been planned at the Chief Minister’s residence in Bhopal, where more than 101 children will participate dressed as Radha and Krishna.

A matki-phod programme will also be organised during the celebrations. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav is scheduled to distribute makhan-mishri, Laddu Gopal idols and books based on Krishna’s childhood stories to the participating children.

Following the programme, Yadav is scheduled to perform the bhoomi pujan of Parshuram-Shri Krishna Lok at Janapav in Mhow. A dance-drama based on the traditional account of Lord Parshuram presenting the Sudarshan Chakra to Krishna is also planned, along with an exhibition featuring episodes associated with Krishna and Parshuram.

Bhopal ISKCON Prepares for Large Gathering

In Bhopal, the ISKCON temple at Patel Nagar, Hare Krishna Land on Raisen Road, is preparing for its Janmashtami celebrations.

Organisers expect a large turnout of devotees during the event. The temple is being decorated around a traditional Jaisalmer-inspired theme, with special flowers, including orchids brought from Thailand, planned for the decorations.

The programme will feature continuous chanting of the Hare Krishna Mahamantra, Krishna Katha and the devotional theatrical presentation ‘Rukmini Kalyanam’. Special darshan and shringar of Shri Shri Gaur Radha Vallabh Ji are also planned.

Other ISKCON centres in Patel Nagar, Barkheda and Bairagarh are also scheduled to hold Janmashtami programmes.

Ujjain to Host Krishna-Themed Cultural Events

Ujjain will be among the key centres of the state-wide celebrations. At Narayana Dham, a five-day cultural programme is being held from September 2 to 6.

Performances will portray episodes including Krishna and Sudama’s friendship, Krishna’s time at Guru Sandipani’s ashram, the makhan chori episodes, his birth and childhood activities, and the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.

The programme will use multiple artistic forms, including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, bhajans and Raslila.

At Sandipani Ashram, programmes being held from September 2 to 4 will focus on the guru-shishya tradition and the traditional account of Krishna receiving education from Maharishi Sandipani.

Panna, Dhar and Mahidpur Plan Special Performances

In Panna, the Shri Baldevji Temple will host dance-drama and devotional singing based on Krishna and Baldev. At the Shri Jugal Kishore Temple, performances will focus on Krishna, devotional music and the Pranami tradition.

Dhar’s Amjhera will host Krishna Leela and performances based on the Rukmini Swayamvar and marriage episodes on September 3 and 4.

In Mahidpur, programmes will explore themes associated with Radha-Krishna devotion, Bundeli folk music and Krishna’s birth.

Several other locations, including Pali, Shahdol, Mandla, Damoh, Rewa and Khategaon, will host programmes based on episodes such as Govardhan Dharan, Sudama Milan and Kaliya Nag Mardan.

Local Artists to Get Statewide Platform

A major component of the Shri Krishna Parv is the participation of local artists from different parts of Madhya Pradesh.

Artists from districts including Khargone, Barwani, Khandwa, Rajgarh, Betul, Sehore, Bhopal, Mandsaur, Ratlam, Ujjain, Neemuch, Raisen, Sagar, Satna, Rewa, Singrauli, Sidhi, Katni, Chhindwara, Dhar, Dewas, Narsinghpur, Umaria, Balaghat, Shahdol, Anuppur, Mandla, Dindori, Burhanpur, Niwari and Tikamgarh are among those scheduled to perform.

The performances are designed to combine Krishna-related narratives with the folk and cultural traditions of different regions.

Government Links Krishna With MP’s Cultural Heritage

Culture, Tourism and Religious Trusts and Endowments Minister Dharmendra Singh Lodhi said Krishna represents Indian philosophy, culture and human values. He also highlighted Madhya Pradesh’s historical and cultural links with Krishna.

According to the organisers, the expanded programme is intended to connect younger generations with Krishna-related traditions while giving wider visibility to the state’s local artistic practices.

Shri Krishna Pathey Nyas Chief Executive Officer Shriram Tiwari said the number of venues has been increased this year. Historical and religious locations including Sandipani Ashram, Narayana Dham, Amjhera, Janapav and Jamgarh have been incorporated alongside religious centres across different regions.

Bhopal Temples Prepare for Late-Night Celebrations

Several Bhopal temples are also expected to remain active through the night following the birth celebrations.

The Gopal Temple in Teela Jamalpura is scheduled to hold Laddu Gopal abhishek followed by special shringar darshan and bhajans. Banke Bihari Temple on Marwari Road has programmes planned until around 1 am.

Birla Mandir, Karuna Dham, Shri Ji Temple at Chowk and the Ahir Samaj Temple in Barkheda are also expected to attract devotees for darshan around the Janmashtami celebrations.

With programmes spread across the state, Madhya Pradesh’s Janmashtami observance this year combines temple celebrations with a broader cultural calendar aimed at showcasing Krishna traditions alongside the state’s regional performing arts.

The first Mahakal procession of the Bhadau month will be taken out in Ujjain on Monday, August 31, at 4 pm. It will be the fifth procession of Lord Mahakaleshwar during the ongoing season.

After special prayers and rituals at the temple’s Sabha Mandap, Baba Mahakal will be placed in a palanquin and taken through the city. At the main entrance of the temple, an armed police contingent will present a ceremonial salute to the deity.

The procession will include mounted police personnel, armed police forces, Home Guards, bhajan groups, jhanj (cymbal) groups and a police band.

Procession to Reach Ram Ghat

The procession will move from the Mahakal Temple through Mahakal Chauraha, Gudri Chauraha, Bakshi Bazaar and Kahaarwadi before reaching Ram Ghat on the banks of the Shipra River.

At Ram Ghat, Lord Mahakal will be given an abhishek using water from the Shipra, followed by prayers and rituals. The procession will then begin its return journey to the temple.

Return Route

The return procession will follow this route:

Ramanujkot → Modh Ki Dharamshala → Kartik Chowk → Khati Ka Mandir → Satyanarayan Temple → Dhaba Road → Tanki Chauraha → Chhatri Chowk → Gopal Mandir → Patni Bazaar → Gudri Bazaar → Mahakal Temple.

Live Broadcast Arrangements

Devotees who are unable to attend the procession in person will also be able to watch it online. The Mahakaleshwar Temple Management Committee will provide a live broadcast through its official Facebook page.

A mobile chariot equipped with an LED screen will also display the procession towards the end of the event, allowing devotees gathered along the route to watch the proceedings.

The procession is expected to draw devotees along its traditional route as Baba Mahakal makes the first ceremonial city visit of the Bhadau month.

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The Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain recorded an unprecedented surge in devotees during the Shravan month this year, with more than 1.53 crore people visiting the Jyotirlinga and participating in various darshan opportunities. Temple authorities said this was the first time that the number of devotees during a single Shravan month crossed the 1.5-crore mark.

According to Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple Management Committee administrator Pratham Kaushik, 1,10,90,725 devotees visited the Mahakaleshwar temple for darshan during the month. Another 43,75,000 devotees visited during the four Sawari processions and for darshan of Nagchandreshwar. Together, the figure reached approximately 1,53,75,000 devotees. In comparison, around 72 lakh devotees had visited the temple during Shravan in 2025.

The unprecedented footfall also resulted in higher revenue for the temple committee, particularly from the paid quick-darshan facility. A total of 5,66,350 devotees used the quick-darshan ticket facility, generating revenue of ₹14.22 crore for the temple administration.

Devotee Footfall Crosses 1.5 Crore

The figures released by the temple committee highlight the scale of this year's religious gathering. More than five lakh Kanwar pilgrims also visited Ujjain during Shravan. Of these, 2,71,956 Kanwariyas were provided meals at five designated locations.

The temple's Annakshetra also served food prasad to 3,41,083 devotees during the month. In addition, around 10,000 devotees were provided footwear free of cost as part of arrangements made for pilgrims.

Quick Darshan Generates ₹14.22 Crore

The paid quick-darshan facility emerged as one of the major sources of temple revenue during the month. According to the figures provided by the temple committee, 5,66,350 devotees opted for quick darshan.

The ₹300 ticket facility generated ₹14,22,37,500 in revenue. The temple committee also introduced online booking for quick-darshan tickets ahead of Nag Panchami. Booking was opened three days before the temple doors were scheduled to open, allowing devotees to plan their visits in advance.

The online facility generated around ₹39 lakh even before the temple doors opened for the Nag Panchami observance.

Laddu Prasad Sales Earn ₹10.32 Crore

The sale of Mahakaleshwar temple's Laddu Prasad also contributed significantly to the temple's revenue during Shravan. According to the temple committee's figures, Laddu Prasad sales generated ₹10.32 crore.

The temple administration reported sales of more than two lakh units of Laddu Prasad during the period. The figures underline the scale of demand for temple prasad amid the record pilgrim footfall.

South Indian Food Introduced

The temple administration introduced several new arrangements for devotees during this year's Shravan period. One of them was the introduction of a South Indian food service called Ras Sangamam at the Annakshetra.

The facility was made available every Tuesday and Friday. Devotees were served dishes including sambar, idli, vada, steamed rice and seasonal vegetables. On the first day itself, 10,337 devotees reportedly availed themselves of the meal service.

Separate Entry for Kanwar Pilgrims

Special arrangements were also made for Kanwar pilgrims to manage the large crowds and streamline their movement through the temple premises.

On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, Kanwariyas were provided entry through Gate No. 1 and the Harsiddhi intersection. Arrangements were also made at the Sabha Mandapam and Kartik Mandapam for pilgrims to offer water to the deity.

The temple committee's arrangements were aimed at managing the unprecedented footfall while ensuring that pilgrims could complete darshan and associated rituals in an organised manner.

The record number of devotees during Shravan has placed this year's pilgrimage figures significantly above the previous year's count. With more than 1.53 crore devotees recorded across the month and associated religious occasions, the Mahakaleshwar Temple administration also registered substantial revenue through quick darshan and prasad sales.

A nearly 65-year-old dilapidated structure located opposite the Mahakal Temple in Ujjain was demolished late Wednesday night after the temple's Shayan Aarti. The municipal corporation carried out the demolition around 11 pm, completing the operation in nearly 60 minutes in compliance with a High Court order.

The building, known as Parchure Bhawan, was considered structurally unsafe. The authorities had earlier obtained a technical assessment from a team of the Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT), Bhopal, to determine the condition of the structure.

Building Found Structurally Unsafe

Ujjain Municipal Corporation Superintendent Engineer Pramod Malviya said the building was approximately 60 to 65 years old and was not built as an RCC structure. It stood on an open foundation and its structural condition had deteriorated significantly over the years.

The building was evacuated before demolition. Municipal teams then used heavy machinery, including JCB equipment, to bring down the structure.

The demolition was conducted at night after the Shayan Aarti to avoid disruption to devotees and manage the operation amid security arrangements in the busy Mahakal Temple area.

MANIT Report Flagged Risks

The MANIT technical assessment reportedly identified several structural deficiencies in the building.

These included outward tilting of load-bearing masonry walls, extensive cracks in the walls, corrosion in supporting steel girders, deterioration of the traditional roofing system, dampness at several locations and damage to the staircase.

The assessment considered the continued use of the building during periods of heavy crowd movement to be risky.

Crowd Pressure Raised Safety Concerns

According to municipal officials, the location becomes particularly crowded during religious events and the Mahakal Sawari, when large numbers of devotees gather in the area.

Officials said there was a possibility of people accessing the roof or upper floor of the old structure during such occasions. This could have placed additional load on the already weakened building and increased the risk of a structural accident.

The authorities therefore decided to remove the building as a safety measure.

G+1 Structure Demolished

The Parchure Bhawan occupied an area of approximately 1,200 to 1,500 square feet and was a G+1 structure.

The demolition operation was carried out under tight security arrangements. Officials ensured that the premises were vacated before machinery was deployed.

The entire structure was brought down in about an hour.

Linked to Mahakal Expansion

The demolition is also linked to the second phase of the Mahakal Temple expansion project.

The Mahakal Temple area has undergone extensive redevelopment in recent years, with authorities working on infrastructure and facilities to manage the increasing number of pilgrims visiting the temple.

Officials said the removal of structurally unsafe buildings in the temple's surrounding area is also important from the perspective of crowd management and public safety.

The demolition of the Parchure Bhawan marks another step in the ongoing changes around the Mahakal Temple precinct, while the immediate focus remains on ensuring that old and unsafe structures do not pose a risk to devotees.

 Lord Mahakal was adorned in a royal form during the traditional Bhasma Aarti at the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain early Thursday morning. The deity was decorated with a silver crown, silver mundamala, Rudraksha beads and fragrant flowers as devotees gathered for the sacred ritual.

The temple doors were opened at around 3 am, following which priests performed the customary worship of the deities in the sanctum sanctorum. Lord Mahakal was then given a ritual bath with water, followed by Panchamrit prepared from milk, curd, ghee, sugar and fruit juices.

Traditional Worship Begins

After the initial rituals, the first bell was sounded and Hari Om water was offered to Lord Mahakal. The Kapoor Aarti was subsequently performed.

The deity's head was decorated with a silver crescent, along with bhang, sandalwood and garlands of roses. A silver crown and Tripund were then placed as part of the traditional adornment.

Mahakal Given Royal Form

After the initial decoration, the Jyotirlinga was covered with cloth and the sacred Bhasma was applied during the Bhasma Aarti.

Lord Mahakal was subsequently dressed and decorated in a royal form using flowers, ornaments, bhang and dry fruits. A silver crown depicting Sheshnag, a silver mundamala, Rudraksha garlands and fragrant floral garlands were offered to the deity.

The sight of Lord Mahakal adorned with fresh roses and traditional ornaments drew the attention of devotees present during the early-morning ritual.

Bhasma Offered by Akhara

The sacred Bhasma was offered to Lord Mahakal by the Mahanirvani Akhara during the ceremony.

According to traditional belief, the offering of Bhasma marks the manifestation of Lord Mahakal from a formless state into a visible form for devotees.

Temple Echoes With Chants

A large number of devotees attended the Bhasma Aarti and sought blessings after witnessing the ceremonial worship and royal adornment of Lord Mahakal.

The atmosphere inside the temple reverberated with chants of Lord Mahakal as the rituals continued. Fruits and sweets were also offered as bhog during the Aarti.

The Bhasma Aarti remains one of the most significant daily rituals at the Mahakaleshwar Temple, drawing devotees from across the country who seek to witness the early-morning worship of the Jyotirlinga.

The dispute over the right to conduct the daily Shipra Aarti at Ram Ghat in Ujjain has intensified, with the Panda Committee announcing a Jal Satyagraha in the Shipra River on Saturday evening. The protest comes after police removed priests from the ghat on August 7 when they opposed the Mahakal Temple Committee's attempt to conduct the aarti.

The dispute has been continuing since August 5 and centres on who should have the responsibility of conducting the Shipra Aarti. While the administration wants to develop the ceremony on the lines of the grand Ganga Aarti in Haridwar and Varanasi, the Panda Committee says the move threatens the traditional role of the city's teerth purohits.

Dispute Started on August 5

According to the Panda Committee, priests have been conducting the Shipra Aarti at Ram Ghat every evening at around 6:30 pm for the past 11 years.

The latest dispute began on August 5 when the Mahakal Temple Committee sent a letter to the Mahakal police and local administration seeking security arrangements and other requirements for conducting the aarti. Around 5 pm, members of the temple committee, accompanied by batuks, reached Ram Ghat.

The Panda Committee members reportedly stopped them from conducting the ceremony. Later, the temple committee's batuks performed the aarti at another location on the ghat.

Police Removed Priests

The situation escalated again on August 7 when members of the Panda Committee opposed the Mahakal Temple Committee's batuks conducting the aarti at Ram Ghat.

Police personnel and two SDMs reached the spot and attempted to resolve the dispute. When the standoff continued, police removed the priests from the area and allowed the Mahakal Temple Committee's batuks to conduct the aarti at another location.

The police action has now become a major point of contention, with the Panda Committee deciding to stage a water protest in the Shipra.

'Aarti for 11 Years'

Panda Committee representative Rajesh Trivedi said the city's teerth purohits have been conducting the Shipra Aarti since 2015.

He said the format of the ceremony had already been expanded and improved over the years and argued that handing the responsibility to the Mahakal Temple Committee after 11 years amounted to removing the traditional priests from the event.

The committee has maintained that the priests will continue to conduct the aarti and that they will oppose any attempt by the temple committee to take over the ceremony.

Administration Cites Singhस्थ Preparations

SDM Pawan Baria said the administration's objective is to provide devotees visiting Ujjain during the upcoming Simhastha with an aarti experience comparable to those in Haridwar.

According to the administration, the Mahakal Temple Committee has decided to start the aarti along the Shipra River as part of preparations to improve the overall experience for pilgrims.

Another SDM, LN Garg, said the administration had proposed that priests from the Panda Committee join the temple committee's batuks for the ceremony. However, the proposal was not accepted.

The administration has indicated that the Shipra Aarti will now be conducted daily by the Mahakal Temple Committee.

Smart City Plans Bigger Event

The dispute has also emerged at a time when Ujjain Smart City Limited has floated a tender to develop the Shipra Aarti as a larger cultural and tourism event.

The tender, titled 'Ujjain Mein Maa Shipra Aarti Ka Ayojan', proposes using a private agency for organising, managing, branding and digitally promoting the ceremony.

According to Smart City CEO Sandeep Shiva, the selected agency will conduct daily and special aartis at the Shipra Ghat located behind Unity Mall under a public-private partnership model.

Water Protest Planned

The Panda Committee has announced that its members will conduct the Jal Satyagraha at 4 pm on Saturday to protest the police action and the proposed change in responsibility for the Shipra Aarti.

The continuing standoff has now placed the administration and traditional priests directly opposite each other. With Simhastha preparations gaining momentum, the manner in which the Shipra Aarti is organised is likely to remain a sensitive issue in Ujjain.

The sacred Bhasma Aarti at the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain was performed with traditional Vedic rituals early on Saturday morning, as thousands of devotees gathered to witness one of Hinduism's most revered spiritual ceremonies. The temple echoed with chants of "Jai Shri Mahakal" as Lord Mahakal was offered a ceremonial Panchamrit Abhishek, followed by an elaborate adornment and the sacred application of holy ash.

The temple doors opened around 4:00 a.m., marking the beginning of the daily pre-dawn ritual. Priests first performed worship of all deities present inside the sanctum sanctorum before commencing the ritual bathing of Lord Mahakal with holy water.

Panchamrit Abhishek Performed with Vedic Rituals

Following the Jalabhishek, the deity was ceremonially bathed with Panchamrit, a sacred mixture of milk, curd, ghee, sugar, and fruit juices, in accordance with long-standing temple traditions.

The rituals were accompanied by Vedic chants and the ringing of the temple's first ceremonial bell. Sacred water was offered with the chanting of "Hari Om," creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere inside the temple.

The Panchamrit Abhishek is regarded as one of the most significant rituals in the daily worship of Lord Mahakal and symbolizes purity, devotion, and divine blessings.

Grand Adornment of Lord Mahakal

After the Abhishek, priests performed the divine adornment (Shringar) of Lord Mahakal.

The deity was decorated with:

• Sacred Bilva leaves
• A silver crown (Rajat Mukut)
• Rudraksha garlands
• A silver Mundmala
• Fragrant flower garlands
• Traditional Tripundra on the forehead
• Silver symbols of the Trishul, Damru, and Sheshnag

The elaborate decoration reflected the temple's centuries-old traditions and offered devotees a mesmerizing glimpse of Lord Shiva in his majestic form.

As part of the rituals, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Kartikeya were also worshipped before fruits and sweets were offered as Bhog (Naivedya) to Lord Mahakal.

Sacred Bhasma Offered During Aarti

Following the Kapoor Aarti and Naivedya, the most awaited ritual of the morning—the offering of holy ash (Bhasma)—was performed by representatives of the Maha Nirvani Akhara.

According to Hindu tradition, the Bhasma Aarti holds immense spiritual significance. It is believed that after the application of the sacred ash, Lord Mahakal manifests in a divine form, blessing devotees with his presence.

The unique ritual symbolizes the transient nature of life and the eternal power of Lord Shiva, making it one of the most distinctive religious ceremonies performed anywhere in India.

Temple Resonates with Devotional Chants

A large number of devotees attended the early morning ceremony to seek the blessings of Baba Mahakal.

As the rituals concluded, the temple complex reverberated with continuous chants of "Jai Shri Mahakal," creating an atmosphere of devotion and spiritual fervor. Pilgrims from different parts of the country offered prayers and witnessed the divine morning rituals with deep faith and reverence.

The daily Bhasma Aarti remains one of the biggest spiritual attractions at the Mahakaleshwar Temple, drawing thousands of devotees throughout the year, especially during the holy month of Shravan when the number of pilgrims increases significantly.

The sacred ceremony continues to uphold centuries-old traditions while reinforcing Ujjain's status as one of Hinduism's most important pilgrimage destinations and one of the twelve revered Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The holy city of Ujjain is preparing to witness a record-breaking surge of pilgrims during the upcoming Shravan-Bhadau season, as advance railway bookings for August and September have already surpassed previous years' figures. Anticipating an average of nearly 95,000 passengers every day, the Indian Railways is introducing several crowd-management measures, including a one-way traffic system at Ujjain Railway Station, drone surveillance, additional trains, and enhanced security arrangements.

According to railway officials, the special arrangements will remain in place during the Shravan-Bhadau period, scheduled from July 30 to September 7, when lakhs of devotees are expected to visit the famous Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple for darshan.

Advance Bookings Break Previous Records

Railway data indicates that Ujjain Railway Station usually handles around 72,000 passengers daily under normal conditions. However, advance ticket reservations for the upcoming pilgrimage season have already crossed 95,000 passengers per day, reflecting a sharp rise in the number of devotees planning to visit the city.

Officials believe this year's pilgrimage could become the busiest in recent years, largely due to the growing popularity of Mahakal Lok, which has significantly increased tourist and pilgrim footfall since its inauguration.

One-Way Traffic System to Be Introduced

For the first time during the Shravan season, Ujjain Railway Station is expected to operate under a one-way passenger movement system to reduce congestion.

According to Railway Protection Force (RPF) Station In-charge Narendra Yadav, a proposal has been submitted to the railway division for approval. Under the proposed plan:

• Passengers will enter the station through Platform No. 1.
• Exit will be allowed through Platform No. 8.
• Entry from the goods yard side will remain completely closed.

The move is aimed at ensuring smoother passenger flow and preventing overcrowding at the station premises during peak hours.

Six Additional Trains on Bhopal Route

Railway authorities have also announced plans to operate six additional trains, particularly on the Bhopal-Ujjain route, which witnesses the highest number of pilgrims during the holy month.

Officials say passenger traffic has consistently increased after the development of Mahakal Lok. While approximately 70,000 passengers visited the station daily during last year's Shravan season, the station now handles nearly the same volume even on regular days. This year's festive rush is expected to push the number beyond 95,000 daily passengers.

Waterproof Holding Area for Devotees

To improve passenger convenience and manage crowds efficiently, a waterproof holding area with a capacity of 1,200 passengers is being constructed outside the railway station.

The facility will provide basic amenities and allow authorities to regulate passenger entry into the station in a phased manner, reducing pressure on platforms and entry gates.

Officials believe the holding area will prove especially useful during heavy rainfall, which is common during the monsoon pilgrimage season.

Drone Surveillance and Enhanced Security

Security arrangements are also being strengthened to handle the anticipated crowd.

Railway authorities have requested 50 additional security personnel for deployment during the festival period. The number of CCTV cameras at the station will also be increased to improve surveillance.

For the first time, drones will monitor crowd movement around the station and adjoining areas. Officials say aerial surveillance will enable quicker response in case of emergencies, overcrowding, or any security-related incidents.

The integrated monitoring system is expected to significantly improve real-time crowd management during peak pilgrimage days.

Trial Run for Simhastha Crowd Management

Railway and district administration officials believe that the arrangements introduced this year will serve a larger purpose beyond the Shravan pilgrimage.

The one-way traffic system, drone monitoring, holding areas, and additional security deployment are expected to act as a trial run for future crowd management during the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, one of the world's largest religious gatherings hosted in Ujjain.

Authorities hope that the experience gained during this year's pilgrimage season will help formulate more efficient crowd-control strategies for future mega-events.

With record advance bookings already in place, Ujjain is preparing for one of its busiest pilgrimage seasons ever. The combination of improved infrastructure, enhanced security, additional train services, and innovative crowd-management measures is expected to ensure safer and smoother travel for thousands of devotees arriving every day to seek the blessings of Lord Mahakal.

The world-famous Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, witnessed another spiritually uplifting morning on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, as the sacred Bhasma Aarti was performed on the occasion of Ashadha Shukla Navami. The temple doors opened at 4:00 AM, welcoming thousands of devotees who had been waiting since late night for the opportunity to witness one of Hinduism's most revered rituals.

The atmosphere echoed with chants of "Har Har Mahadev" and "Jai Shri Mahakal", creating a deeply devotional environment as worshippers from across India and abroad gathered for the early morning ceremony.

Panchamrit Abhishek Performed with Vedic Rituals

As per centuries-old traditions, the rituals began with the worship of all deities present in the sanctum sanctorum. Lord Mahakal was first bathed with holy water, followed by the Panchamrit Abhishek, performed using milk, curd, ghee, honey, and fruit juices.

After the sacred bath, the Jyotirlinga was decorated with sandalwood paste, bhang, fragrant substances, and traditional ornaments. Temple priests conducted the rituals while chanting Vedic mantras before preparing for the Bhasma Aarti.

This ancient ritual continues to attract devotees from across the world, who consider witnessing the Bhasma Aarti a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience.

Sacred Bhasma Aarti Draws Thousands of Devotees

Before the offering of the sacred ash, the temple bells rang and holy water was ceremonially offered while prayers invoking Lord Mahakal were recited.

Following the Camphor Aarti, the Jyotirlinga was traditionally covered with a sacred cloth before the holy ash (Bhasma) was offered according to established temple customs.

The Bhasma Aarti is one of the defining traditions of the Mahakaleshwar Temple. In Hindu belief, the sacred ash symbolizes the eternal truth of life and death, reminding devotees of the transient nature of the physical world and the timeless presence of Lord Shiva.

Divine Shringar with Sheshnag, Tripundra and Bilva Leaves

After the completion of the Bhasma Aarti, Lord Mahakal was adorned with an elaborate and mesmerizing Shringar (divine decoration).

The deity was decorated with:

• A silver Sheshnag crown
• A silver Mundmala
• Rudraksha garlands
• The sacred Tripundra
• Bilva (Bel) leaves
• Fresh, fragrant flowers
• Traditional ornaments

The beautifully decorated form of Baba Mahakal captivated devotees, who folded their hands in prayer while chanting "Har Har Mahadev." Many devotees remained immersed in meditation, considering the divine darshan a deeply spiritual blessing.

According to religious belief, after the offering of Bhasma, Lord Mahakal manifests in a divine visible form for the benefit of His devotees.

Devotees Continue Traditional Worship

Following the morning Aarti, devotees also offered prayers to Nandi Maharaj, the sacred bull and devoted vehicle of Lord Shiva.

As part of a long-standing tradition, many worshippers whispered their wishes into Nandi's ear, believing that their prayers would be conveyed directly to Lord Mahakal. This ritual remains one of the most cherished customs observed daily at the temple.

Increasing Footfall Ahead of Shravan Month

With the holy month of Shravan approaching, the number of pilgrims visiting the Mahakaleshwar Temple has increased significantly.

The temple administration made additional arrangements to ensure smooth darshan for devotees. Security personnel and temple volunteers managed the long queues efficiently, allowing uninterrupted access to the temple despite the heavy rush.

Officials also appealed to visitors to follow temple guidelines and maintain discipline throughout their visit to ensure a peaceful and organized pilgrimage experience.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav is scheduled to visit Ujjain district on Wednesday, where he will inaugurate the Samakota Barrage, a major irrigation project constructed at a cost of ₹188.42 crore. Located on the Chhoti Kalisindh River in Jharada tehsil, the project is expected to provide irrigation benefits to thousands of farming families and strengthen agricultural infrastructure in the region.

According to officials, the barrage has been designed to improve water availability for agriculture and support sustainable farming practices. The project is expected to benefit more than 11,000 farmer families across 18 villages by ensuring a reliable irrigation network for a large area of cultivable land.

The inauguration forms part of a broader development initiative under which the Chief Minister will dedicate public infrastructure projects worth more than ₹207 crore to the people of the district.

Major Boost for Irrigation

The Samakota Barrage has a water storage capacity of 17.57 million cubic metres and is designed to irrigate approximately 7,236 hectares of agricultural land through a pipeline-based distribution system.

Officials said the project will directly benefit farmers in villages including Nalkheda, Panodia, Neemkheda, Ghattiyajassa, Melakhedi, Khoriyapadma, Kherla, Lasudiyanahata, Nagpura, Chhajjukhedi, Delakhedi, Dungarkhedi, Khedamadda, Kason, Mahidpuriya, Somchidi, and Jharada.

Agriculture experts believe improved irrigation infrastructure can help increase crop productivity, reduce dependence on erratic rainfall, and enhance rural livelihoods in the region.

Additional Development Projects

During the visit, the Chief Minister will also inaugurate several public infrastructure projects valued at more than ₹19 crore. These projects cover sectors such as education, healthcare, and power distribution.

Among the key initiatives are a college building constructed by the Higher Education Department at a cost of ₹4.35 crore and new girls' school buildings in Semalia, Mahidpur Road, and Kundikheda under the School Education Department.

The development package also includes a 33/11 KV power substation at Mochikheda, aimed at improving electricity supply in the area. In addition, 13 sub-health centre buildings in the Jharada region will be inaugurated to strengthen healthcare services in rural communities.

Focus on Rural Development

Officials stated that the projects reflect the state's focus on improving infrastructure in rural and semi-urban areas. Investments in irrigation, education, healthcare, and energy are expected to contribute to long-term socio-economic growth and improve the quality of life for residents.

The irrigation project, in particular, is being viewed as a significant step toward enhancing agricultural resilience in the region, where farming remains a primary source of income for a large section of the population.

Viral video shows staff clicking photos with saree-clad visitor despite ban on photography inside Ujjain temple premises

A young man dressed as Allu Arjun’s character from the film Pushpa — complete with saree, blouse, payal, lemon garland, and bangles — walked into the Mahakal temple here for a VIP darshan, triggering a row over security lapses. The incident, which took place on February 5, came to light after videos surfaced on social media over the weekend.

The temple management has since removed a supervisor after an internal inquiry.

Viral visuals show protocol breach

In the clips circulating on Instagram and Facebook, the man is seen moving through different parts of the temple complex. A staff member escorts him to the Ganesh Mandapam, treating him like a VIP devotee. Security personnel and temple committee employees did not stop him. Instead, they posed for photographs with him.

Photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the Mahakal temple premises. The responsibility of enforcing this ban lies with the very staff and guards who are now seen violating it.

What the video shows

The young man is dressed in a saree and blouse, with payal on his feet, a lemon garland and necklace around his neck, tops in his ears, a nose ring, and bangles on his wrists. He mimics the mannerisms of the Pushpa character in several clips.

According to sources familiar with the matter, he did not enter like an ordinary pilgrim. He was given special access, something regular devotees are not entitled to. The videos also show him filming himself inside the temple, which is not allowed for common visitors.

Social media backlash

The visuals, uploaded from an account named Ankit Astoliya on Instagram and Facebook, quickly went viral. Several other videos in the same outfit are available on that profile.

Users have criticised the temple administration for allowing such conduct. Many questioned how the man managed to enter with a full costume and accessories without being stopped at any checkpoint. Others pointed out that the staff’s willingness to take selfies with him shows a casual approach to protocol.

Official action taken

Mahakal temple administrator Pratham Kaushik confirmed that the video dates back to February 5. “After the visuals came to our notice, an inquiry was conducted. The concerned supervisor has been removed from his post,” he said.

Kaushik added that granting special permission to anyone inside the temple premises, or allowing photography and videography, goes against the established rules and decorum of the shrine.

Prior restrictions on photography

This is not the first time the Mahakal temple has faced controversy over mobile phone use. While devotees are routinely asked to deposit their phones before entering, instances of unauthorised recording have been reported earlier as well. The latest incident has once again raised questions about enforcement of existing rules.

Sources indicate that the temple trust may now review its security deployment and issue fresh guidelines to prevent such breaches in the future.