As India prepares to celebrate Maha Shivratri on February 15, Ujjain’s Mahakaleshwar Temple stands ready for what could be its busiest festivities yet. Officials predict more than 10 lakh visitors will flock to the sacred site over February 15 and 16, prompting meticulous planning to manage the massive crowds.
A high-level review meeting brought together temple management, district administration, and executive magistrates. Responsibilities were clearly outlined by sector, with detailed duty rosters issued to prevent any bottlenecks during peak hours.
‘The temple gates will stay open for 44 hours straight, allowing devotees uninterrupted access to all shringars,’ shared temple head Pratham Kaushik. He highlighted proactive inspections by magistrates, ensuring water supply, sanitation, and security are top-notch. ‘Our goal is zero inconvenience for any pilgrim,’ he affirmed.
The highlight remains the special char prahar pooja, a mesmerizing ritual spanning into the next day. Come midnight on Shivratri, Baba Mahakal will be dressed in bridal splendor – heavy jewels, vibrant flowers, and traditional finery – a sight that lures millions annually.
From enhanced parking to medical aid stations and volunteer networks, every aspect has been fortified. Past experiences have shaped these robust measures, aiming for a safe, spiritually fulfilling event. Ujjain, already a pilgrimage hotspot, will once again affirm its status as Shiva’s earthly abode, where faith meets flawless organization.