The revered Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain experienced a massive influx of pilgrims on Thursday, marking the beginning of the winter vacation period. Temple authorities reported that the daily footfall is anticipated to reach approximately 2 lakh devotees, a significant jump from the usual daily average of 1.25 to 1.5 lakh visitors.
Preparations for the Pilgrim Rush
Pratham Kaushik, the temple management committee administrator, stated that preparations were made in advance for the vacation surge. "On the very first day of vacations, the figure crossed 1.5 lakh by afternoon. This gives hope that by closing time, this figure will be around 2 lakh," Kaushik explained. By 11 am on Thursday itself, more than 70,000 devotees had already completed their darshan of Lord Mahakal.
The committee has put in place several operational changes, effective until January 5, to manage the increased crowd smoothly. To facilitate easier access, devotees are currently being granted entry through four main routes: Neelkanth, Shahnai, Bada Ganesh Mandir, and Triveni Sangrahalaya doors. Kaushik added that entry routes would be adjusted dynamically as the number of visitors changes.
Enhanced Facilities for Devotee Convenience
A key focus has been on streamlining the distribution of prasad. The committee has expanded the number of laddu prasad distribution points from seven to nine counters. A new counter has been opened at Neelkanth Dwar, while a 24-hour counter is operational at Harsiddhi. The prasad, which includes besan and ragi laddus, is available in packs of 100 grams, 200 grams, 500 grams, and 1 kilogram at various locations including Gate Number 1, Gate Number 3, Mahakal Lok, Bada Ganesh Mandir, and Vikramaditya Teela.
For general visitors, a systematic darshan process via a tunnel has been initiated. Devotees enter from Mansarovar, proceed through barricades into the tunnel to reach Ganesh Mandapam, and exit towards Bada Ganesh Mandir after darshan. Additionally, quick darshan counters charging Rs 250 have been set up in front of Bada Ganesh Mandir, complete with mobile and footwear stands for visitor convenience.
Additional Amenities and Arrangements
The temple management has also taken steps to ensure comfort during the wait. Holding areas with seating and water arrangements have been created near Karkaraj Mandir and Chardham Mandir. The meal timings and capacity at the Mahakal Annakshetra have been increased to serve more people. Furthermore, additional shoe stands and mobile lockers have been installed near Mansarovar Dwar and Triveni Sangrahalaya to cater to the needs of the large number of pilgrims.
These comprehensive measures underscore the temple administration's commitment to ensuring a seamless and spiritually fulfilling experience for the lakhs of devotees flocking to the Mahakaleshwar Temple during this peak season.
