Dhar (MP), Feb 3 (PTI) – Devotees thronged the Bhojshala complex, a historical site claimed by both Hindus and Muslims, to offer prayers on the occasion of Basant Panchami on Monday. The medieval-era structure, protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), witnessed heightened security as religious observances took place.
Bhojshala, an 11th-century monument, is regarded by Hindus as the temple of Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati), while the Muslim community identifies it as Kamal Maula Mosque. The site remains a focal point of religious and legal disputes, with ASI conducting a scientific survey last year following directives from the Madhya Pradesh High Court.
Basant Panchami Celebrations at Bhojshala
Marking the beginning of a four-day Basant Utsav, prayers commenced early in the morning, with Hindu devotees performing a hawan (fire ritual) and offering "aahuti" (oblations). Gopal Sharma, convenor of Bhojshala Mukti Yagya, confirmed that a shobha yatra (procession) would take place from Udajirao Square, culminating in a maha-aarti dedicated to Maa Vagdevi.Sharma recounted that Raja Bhoj initiated the tradition of Saraswati Janmotsav in 1034 AD by installing the idol of Maa Vagdevi in the sanctum sanctorum of Bhojshala. The celebration has continued for 991 years, drawing thousands of devotees annually.
Legal Dispute Over Bhojshala Complex
The ASI’s scientific survey of Bhojshala, conducted under the Madhya Pradesh High Court's Indore bench’s directive, spanned nearly three months, culminating in a 2,000-page report submitted in July 2023.The controversy over prayer rights at Bhojshala has existed for years. An ASI order issued on April 7, 2003, allowed Hindus to worship on Tuesdays while permitting Muslims to offer namaz on Fridays. This arrangement was later challenged in court by Hindu Front for Justice.
Supreme Court Hearing on February 17
In April 2023, the Supreme Court stayed any action based on the ASI report, following a petition by Hindu petitioners. Ashish Goyal, one of the petitioners, confirmed that the Supreme Court will hear the case again on February 17, 2024. The petitioners demand that the ASI report be made public and have urged the apex court to lift the stay on actions based on its findings.With tensions surrounding the religious and legal status of Bhojshala, the upcoming Supreme Court hearing could have significant implications on the future of the disputed site.
