IIT report: Shivling at Babulnath temple shows wear and tear

In February, the temple trust had disallowed offerings such as milk, commercial sandalwood essence as well as ‘ittar’ or perfumed liquid, noticing early signs of wear and tear to the idol. At that time, the trust had also decided to limit the offerings to fruits and flowers, and water for anointing.

The IIT-B was appointed to carry out a survey of the Shivling, and determine future course of action.

In its report, the IIT has recommended that certain offerings that have leachable elements should be stopped, to ensure longevity of the Shivling. It has said that use of cow milk should be restricted, and quantity of water offered limited.

In a statement on Friday, the temple trust said, “It has been observed (in the IIT-B report) that as on date, neither these idols nor Shivling are cracked but have undergone excessive wear and tear.”

“The trustees are studying recommendations and will shortly announce the way to implement the same. Till then, the existing system shall continue,” it added.

As the Shivling is made of granite and the idols of marble, the report has found that “offerings that are acidic and saline in nature would in time lead to wear and tear, such as cracking and spalling, due to numerous wetting and drying cycles”.

“…Mumbai’s humidity levels would aggravate abrasion, erosion, and could lead to micro fissure formation, which can allow chemicals to seep into the idol, leading to severe weathering,” the statement said.