Bhimashankar temple to remain closed during Mahashivratri ahead of Kumbh Mela preparations

While Bhimashankar typically handles daily pilgrim footfall, even during festivals, within a manageable framework, the 2027 Kumbh Mela is projected to bring nearly one lakh visitors a day — far exceeding the existing infrastructure’s capacity. The administration has prioritised completing the work well ahead of the Kumbh Mela.

Officials said the timeline is non-negotiable, as Bhimashankar receives extremely heavy rainfall from June to September, making construction impossible during the monsoon. This leaves a narrow window to complete the project before the 2027 Kumbh Mela.

Earlier, a decision had been taken to close the temple for three months, except during Mahashivratri. However, after reviewing the pace and scale of construction and associated safety concerns, the administration decided to keep the temple shut during the festival as well. Officials noted that major stone masonry work is currently underway and that heavy construction materials and stones cannot be shifted, making it unsafe to allow devotees during Mahashivratri.
Highlighting the impact on the local economy, Samir Kodilkar (49), one of the temple’s priests, said, “The local enterprise owners such as vendors and transport operators serving pilgrims and visitors have suffered problems due to the closure, since their earnings depend on it.” However, he added, “Our staff and the local residents remain positive and supportive of the temple’s development for the greater good.”

District Collector Dudi has appealed to devotees and local residents to extend full cooperation to the Temple Trust, district administration, police administration and local authorities during the closure period.

(Swasti Jain is an intern at The Indian Express)