Court Issues Temporary Injunction on Idol Coating
A court in Solapur, Maharashtra, has granted a temporary injunction preventing the Pandharpur temple committee from applying a chemical coating on the idol of Lord Vitthal. The order came in response to a petition filed by devotees who argued that the use of modern chemicals like epoxy resin violates Hindu scriptures, or 'shastras', and defiles the ancient deity. The plaintiffs advocated for the use of traditional 'vajralep' instead.
Religious Objections and Scriptural Violations
The petitioners contended that the chemical coating would desecrate the idol, which is revered by millions. They emphasized that the idol belongs to all devotees and any alteration to it requires their collective consent. The court agreed with this reasoning, noting that there was no immediate emergency that warranted the coating ahead of the Ashadi Ekadashi pilgrimage.
Temple Committee's Defense
The temple committee defended its decision, stating that the restoration was recommended by the Archaeology Department to prevent wear and tear. They argued that the coating was necessary to preserve the idol for the upcoming Ashadi Ekadashi festival, which attracts lakhs of pilgrims annually.
Court's Reasoning and Impact
Judge ruled that the idol is a public religious symbol and any action affecting it must have the consent of the devotees. The injunction will remain in place until the matter is fully heard. The decision has been welcomed by devotees who undertake the annual warkari pilgrimage to Pandharpur, where they offer prayers at the Vitthal-Rukmini temple during Ashadi Ekadashi.
