Every year, the Mahakaleshwar Temple, renowned worldwide, is filled with fervor during every festival. Whether it’s Holi, Rang Panchami, Rakhi, Dussehra, or Diwali, grand celebrations take place here, witnessed by a large number of devotees. Today, Rang Panchami is being celebrated across the state with enthusiasm, but the celebration at the Mahakal Temple this year is not as grand as usual. This time, Baba Mahakal was offered only a drop of color made from saffron and tesu flowers during the Bhasma Aarti.
A Drop of Water Instead of Colors
It’s well-known that an unfortunate incident occurred during the Dhulendi celebration in the temple, resulting in injuries to 14 individuals who were hospitalized for treatment. In response to this incident, throwing colors during the Bhasma Aarti has been prohibited this year. Devotees and priests are not allowed to bring colors with them. Instead, the temple committee prepared color from flowers, which was offered during the Bhasma Aarti.
Absence of the Vibrant Atmosphere
Every year during Rang Panchami, the Mahakal Temple resembles a colorful bridge. Several liters of color are made from tesu flowers, and vibrant celebrations take place throughout the temple premises during the Aarti. However, this year, the vibrant atmosphere was absent. Devotees were allowed entry into the temple after thorough checking starting from 2:00 AM. Even the priests were allowed entry only after inspection. The color offered to Baba Mahakal was provided to the priest by the temple authorities.
Decrease in the Number of Devotees
Following the unfortunate incident at the Mahakal Temple, caution is being exercised. The number of devotees allowed inside has not been increased significantly. More than 15 devotees were not allowed to gather in the Garbhagriha. Previously, during the Bhasma Aarti, permission was granted for 1750 devotees, but now it’s limited to 1400. Moving forward, the number of devotees will be further restricted.