Dhakleshwar Temple to reopen today

One of the city’s oldest temples has received a makeover of a different kind. The trust that runs it managed to secure an International Standardisation Organisation (ISO) certificate.

One of the city’s oldest temples has received a makeover of a different kind. The trust that runs it managed to secure an International Standardisation Organisation (ISO) certificate. The renovation work on this 174-year-old temple, also a heritage structure, is almost over and its doors will be reopen to the devotees on Friday.

Closed for over two years for renovation work, the Dhakleshwar Mahadeo Temple will follow a set of ISO 9001:2000 guidelines after its reopening. Asked about the renovation work, Chanchal Choudhary, general manager of the trust, said, “We had approached the Maharashtra Heritage Conservation Committee (MHCC) two years ago and started work on temple’s restoration. The Tulsidas Gopalji Charitable and Dhakleshwar Temple Trust, which is ISO 9001:2000 certified, will ensure high professional standards in the temple.”

As per the ISO 9001:2001 guidelines, the temple will have a professional security team, a private company that the trust has hired. Similarly, there will be a private company to keep the temple and its surroundings clean. Two or three new priests will be hired to maintain the temple and the idols.

Story continues below this ad

“These are some procedures to be followed at an international level, and there has to be some consistency in keeping with the rules. That’s why we have to follow the guidelines. For instance, the cleaning has to be done thrice a day at fixed intervals and it has to be continued everyday,” said Choudhary.

“Even time for the prayers should be fixed. All these activities will be registered in a logbook by a supervisor and he will report them to me,” he said.

The temple, which was constructed in 1832 was in a bad shape, with water seepage being a major issue. “We decided to strengthen this heritage structure and planned to complete the restoration works before it becomes weaker. This is very necessary since it is a heritage structure too,” says Choudhary. The renovation works included changing the entire flooring, laying a new storm water drain, waterproofing and replastering work, he said. According to him, around Rs 2 crore was spent to renovate the temple. “We haven’t changed any structural features and design of the temple. Everything has been left intact. We’ve only done some beautification work.” he added.

Trump vows to keep ‘massive’ tariffs on India until Russian oil imports cease

World1 hr ago

President Trump spoke with Prime Minister Modi about India's continued purchases of Russian oil, warning that if they don't stop, tariffs on Indian goods will remain high. However, India denies any conversation took place and defends its energy policy. While the US claims India has halved its Russian oil purchases, Indian sources say there has been no immediate reduction.

View all shorts

Live Blog

PHOTOS