As per case facts, this petition concerns the Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain. The appellant challenged a High Court Division Bench order, which had set aside a Single Bench order related ...
CORRECTED REPORTABLE
IN THE SUPREME COURT OF INDIA
CIVIL APPELLATE JURISDICTION
CIVIL APPEAL NO. 4676 2018
(arising out of S.L.P. (C) No.15459 of 2017)
SARIKA …APPELLANT(S)
VERSUS
ADMINISTRATOR,
SHRI MAHAKALESHWAR MANDIR
COMMITTEE, UJJAIN (M.P.) & ORS. ...RESPONDENT(S)
J U D G M E N T
ARUN MISHRA, J.
1. Leave granted.
2. The petition pertains to famous Mahakaleshwar temple, Ujjain.
The appellant has impugned the judgment and order passed in Writ
Appeal No.37/2014 by the Division Bench of the High Court of Madhya
Pradesh at Indore thereby setting aside the order passed by the Single
Bench on 4.12.2013 in W.P. No.10712 of 2013.
3. Mahakaleshwar is an ancient temple of Lord Shiva. In order to
understand the importance of the Lingam it is necessary to consider it,
in brief, the history of Mahakal – Shiva, worshipping of statues and
Lingam, origin of Mahakal, same as defined in scriptures etc. as pointed
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out in the reply of Mahant Prakash Giri of Shri Panchayati Akhara
Mahanirvani is as under:
“ BRIEF HISTORY OF MAHAKAL SHIVA
Since ancient times in Hindu culture definitions are
found in name of Shiva, Pasupati, Rudra, Ishaan, etc.
Undoubtedly, the Vedas are the only authentic and wellbeing
book of Hindu religion, when and where it was created it is
matter of search. But it can be said that at least 5000 years
ago, it was in complete existence.
Shiva is the instrument of discussion in Veda Mantras,
but that discussion is on shapeless god. Somewhere nature's
body is also addressed by various names of Shiva, part of
Vedic treatises of the Swaithashwar influx, it has been
discussed by the 'Sweth' sage on the basis of the Vedic
Mantras in the spiritual form of Shiva.
As briefly stated, [Abstract from Swaithashwar influx] :
The creator treats himself and all the controlling Divine
powers differently, therefore, it remains entangled in the
creation of universe [In the enjoyment of nature] And when
that incomparable divine power is experienced, then attain
liberation, that is salvation.
Indestructible or destructible, visible and not visible it
nourishes the divine (the supreme power) of this whole world,
the creature attracted to the qualities of nature, treating
himself as his boss, stays in the same nature, and when that
creature is experiencing that divine, attracted by the qualities
of nature, creatures [Jeev] keep himself tied by the attribute of
the same nature, and when that creature experiences that
divine, then he is exempted from all bondage.
The destructive staple and indestructible lifeforce is
formulated by a god called ‘Har’, with the thought of its
contemplation, and by the feeling of its element, the person
achieves the retirement of the cycle (nature) of the
reincarnation after liberation.
Braham in the soul should forever be known, there is no
more known qualified entity than this, the creator (creature),
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the usable material (nature), and the inspiration (God), this is
the only way Brahma said in three ways.
While commenting on this stanza, 'Shankaracharya' has
written with the reference of Shiva, that performers [Yogi] see
Shiva's not in idols but in soul, a person who relinquish Shiv
from his inner soul to worship outer Shiv, he feels as if he has
dropped his hands morsel (Food yoga substance) and licks his
empty palm, as the blind person can't see the rising sun, in
the same way, the uneducated person can't view the calm
form of Shiva. The person who view the omniscient
(everywhere present) calm form of Shiva, Shiva resides in his
heart, but those who can't see Shiva located in their souls,
those people use to search him at pilgrimage place. In the
interpretation of this stanza, it is written with reference to
Vishnu Purana that's the goal that is proven by the mind's
axiomatic (complete) Inconsistent (Due to meditation and
distinction between patience) the form is assumed, it is called
a Samadhi.
The power called a Rudra is governed by the entire
Universe, it is situated within all the organisms and creates
the entire universe (many planets located in space and space),
protects them and destroys (destruction of the universe)
means it merges in itself. Rudra Dev originates all the creation
and creatures.
Nature is to be known as illusion and Maheshwar as
Elusive this entire world (universe) is the Action Format of
both of them.
At the beginning of creation by becoming one [supreme
power] and being special by its power without any purpose
many types of characters [Special form] holds and in the end
the world dissolves in it and same supreme power provide
pure intelligence.
Supreme power is the fire, the same sun, the same air,
the same moon, the same Venus, the same Brahma, the same
water, and the same is Prajapati. Dev (supreme power) exists
in fire, which is in water, and is occupied (everywhere) in the
entire universe and which is present in the Medicine and the
vegetation also that god (God). This soul is neither a woman,
nor a man, nor an important, the one who holds the body
remains the same.
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The supreme power, (the power that exists everywhere),
that power is the form of knowledge, which is the power time
(time). Who is the virtuous and Omniscient [all knowing]
Inspired by that the earth, water, fire, air, and sky,
established In their own deed, keeps interaction, think of that
supreme power. HeadNeckand chest keeping the body
together, by controlling all the indices by concentrating peace
of mind, strengthen the meditation while uttering the sound
‘Om’.
To control the mind, do pranayama. These actions are to
be held at quiet, secluded, and in a clean place.
In this way, where ever Yogi does Yoga, the Yogi
experience the Brahma Tattva (God) with the illuminating self,
similar to the lamp, That yogi is free from all unborn, steady,
and all elements, he releases himself from all bounding by
knowing that God.
Thus, from this brief description of Shvetashwar
Upanishad, it can be understood that the Shiva as described
in Veda, he is the only creator of the Universe, is rearing the
universe, is also the destroyer, spreads everywhere known as
power form of formless God.
It is submitted that Vedas are the foundation of Hindu
religion, all types of basic knowledge and science are
available. This is the first knowledge book of the universe, on
basis of this Vedas, all Purans and Hindu texts are written or
spoken, now it can be seen brief form of Shiv from Hindu texts
written after Vedas. The 'Shev sect' is known for worshiping
different forms of Shiva by believing it as God, this sect. has
its own elaborate literature how much is truth, it is the matter
of research but in Bharat it has been recognized at least 2500
years ago it is known from the available evidence, how old is
this from it is a matter of research. The main forms of Shiva
People whom people in Bharat or abroad worship him as God
in the form of idol or phallus. The visual part of Shiv is as
follows:
1.Panchamukhi Shiva
2. Asht Vidh Shiva
3. Ekadash Rudra
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4. Various Incarnations of Shiva
5. Bhairav
6. Shiva's Yogavatar
The Origin of Lingas: The origin of the Linga's in the
Puranas in such a way that when this creation was taking
place, there was a fierce battle between Brahma and Vishnu,
and in that war a huge Jyotipunj appeared between them, As
a result of this sudden incident, both of them stopped fighting
together and went to know the secrets of this light; they went
up and down in the form of swan and wind, but there was no
end to it then both of them came back and gathered and
explored Lingas at that time they heard a sound ‘Om’ coming
out of that Jyotirmay Lingas, and universe was created, first
of all it came in form of Golden egg and it remain in same
format for thousand years after that egg got divided which
created Sky and Earth Brahma and Vishnu performed the
prayer of Jyotirlinga with Om Mantras then from that
Jyotirlingas in form of words [a,aa,e,ee,u,oo,r,tr,others) Shiv
along with Uma manifested when he lift his head again and
looked upwards then from sound of Omkar he visualize 38
words Ishan Mantras, 24 words Tatpurush Mantra, 33 words
Aghor Mantras, 35 words Sadhojat Mantras and 66 words
Vamdev Mantras knowing these five mantras Vishnu started
Chanting these mantras and prayed Shiva by these in Mantra
form from here onwards the origin of worship Jyotipunj Lingas
started, the main meaning of the word lingas is symbol, i.e.
here, we understand from Shivling that in entire universe
Shivaling is considered to be the symbol of the ultimate power
which prevails inside and outside of it, word Shiva it the only
power who runs, creates, .and destroy this universe. This
universe is its direct symbol, hence Shivling is considered as
symbol of God.
Different types of lingas: There are two main types of
lingas the first type of lingas is called as swambhu, meaning
of swamboo is who is selfgenerated, second type of Lingas
are produced, Lingas are produced from Mercury, Gold, Silver,
Diamond, Sfetik, Precious Stones, stones and Mud, it can be
made from other materials also, Shiv Lingas made of mud are
dissolved in water after worshipping daily balance type of
Lingas are permanent. According to tradition every piece of
stone found in Narmada river is treated as Lingas. Apart from
this trees and plants are also symbol of Shiv Lingas.
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Legislation of worshiping Statues and Lingas: Shiva
statue created along Human shape is called Pratima, Customs
of worshiping the Idols and Lingas are almost same.
Worshiping of Shiva's Formless Lingas: In addition to
external worship, internal worship is also mentioned in the
Puranas, for spiritual contemplation and meditation two types
of Lingas have been defined Lingas created by physical
materials available outside and interior Lingas, for the sake of
emotional fulfillment of common mass concept of Solid outside
form of Lingas, has been perceived, the epicenter lingus
which means the spiritual astral body, which does not have
direct experience the same ignorant persons perform prayer
etc everything outside by imagining it externally, by
meditating Jnan meditation yoga, in meditation, that subtle
Lingas symbol of Shiva sees himself sitting in his own right.
Once this knowledge is attained, there is liberation this is
worshiping the formless Lingas. Knowledgeable people
perform meditation yoga by the equator were he visualize
subtle shape Shiva sitting within itself when his knowledge is
attained he gets Liberation, this is the way to worship the
formless Lingus.
Pasupat ki Utpatti: According to Ling Purana, Pasupat
vrat Yoga scriptures and Kapil Samkhya are composed by
Shiva and Pasupat was created earlier and it's the best. Shiva
had very first preached to Vishnu etc deities of Pasupat
second time he preached at time when he inhale poison occur
from sea churn, third time he preached to Prajapati Daksh on
the occasion when Daksh oblation [Yag] was vandalize. Shiva
28 yoga avatars were also holders of pasupat vrat they
spread the Pasupat through their disciples. Pasupat vrat
which was originated by Lord Shiva, after him the Yoga
incarnation held at different times by different people took
forward but all of them are not available in Holy book [Grant]
but they are discussed in the context here and there. Out of
these the last Yoga avatar his name was 'Lakuleesh' and he
was born presently known as Gujarat in Vadaodra district,
according to time he reached Ujjain their he delivered his first
preach to Kushik and other disciples on manner in which Shiv
performed and practiced the Pasupat vrat, and Mahadev
south facing statute i.e sacraments or pledge the bhasma
purified by Sadhojatadi 5 Shiva Mantra's to Mahakal this
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prime action has been interpreted in Pasupat Sutra by
authentic interpreter 'kodilya' in his first Sutra. Mahadev
authentic southdirection Linga formation is the only one at
'Mahakaleshwar Jyotirling' besides this the accreditation is
that it doesn't exist at any other place. Persons who adopt
Pasupat yog should take bath thrice with Bhasam, should
sleep on bed of Bhasma, even after taking food etc he should
put Bhasam on his body, should possess Shiva Nirmaalya,
such as House holders and people living in the other
hermitage have their own special symbols likewise Bathing
with Bhasam [Bhasam ashnan], Sleeping on Bhasam,
Anuashnan Shiva Nirmaalya are symbol of person of
Pasupatl's, Pasupati should chant five Braharn mantra
purified by 'Sadvoiata'all these should be performed in
congruence of south facing staue of Lord Mahadev.ln brief it
has been narrated about Pasupat,
Pasupat tradition originated from Lord Shiva has always
been followed regularly in Bharat today they are known as
'Naga Sadhu', There is evident proof of Pasupat and Naga
Sadhu's are time to time mentioned in ancient books [Grants],
and are been quoted in scripts of others religion [Jainism and
others].
Origin of Mahakal : According to Shiva Mahapurana
Kotirudra sanhita Update 16, a Brahmin lived with his four
sons in Ujjain [Ujjani] city, that Brahman daily used to perform
Agni horn & terrestrial Shiva Linga, at the same time an evil
demon called Dushan lived on the mountain called Ratanmal.
On day when Brahman was delighted in meditation of Lord
Shiva then only Dushan monster arrived along with his army
and tried to kill Brahman then only Lord Shiva manifest from
the terrestrial Linga worshiped by the Brahman, said that I
am Mahakal who destroys evil demon like you, move away
from this Brahman, and by a single word 'Hunkar' reduced
that evil demon along with his army into ashes, after the
killing of Dushan these Brahmins prayed to Lord Shiva to stay
their and Lord Shiv accepted it stable himself in form of Lingas
and known as Mahakal. In the 17th chapter of this mythology,
King Chandra Sen of Ujjain and one Gope child also worship
the Mahakaleshwar Lingas.
Pasupat and Mahakal : In the Puranas and many other
literature, the material related to Mahakal is obtained,
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according to available evidence, current Mahakal temple is the
only authentic South facing Shiva Linga, ,in the past there
was crematorium at this place, this is the only Shiv Lingas in
the universe on which from unknown time ashes of funeral
pyre brought from crematorium by pronouncing Sadyojata Five
mantras is plated by Naga [Pasupatis] Sadhu. This tradition is
not experimented anywhere else except Mahakal no other sect
in the universe except Pasupat loves Bhasam and
crematorium, he is worshiper of south facing Shiva and uses
bhasam purified by Pach Braham[ Sadyojata] mantras.
Current format of Pasupat which was preached by Lukulish in
Ujjain these probes that Pasupat and Mahakal are mutually
related and according to the said behavior in Mahakal before
and during today's time, Mahant of Nag a Sadhu's at Mahakal
is following the tradition of Pasupat. Swet Saga the first
Pasupat acharya in Swetashwer upnished have mentioned at
different places about Divine power of Shiva especially in
chapter (420) He has praise a special appearance of Rudra's
southern face, In mahabharat chapter Anushasan parv Shiva
told Uma that I have delivered the preaching on Pasupat from
my Southern face, in Shiv Mahapuran, Ling Mahapuran,
Panchbrahmhopnishad volumes south facing Shiva has been
called Aghor, It is famous the crematorium is very dear to
Shiva and Shaiv Aghories, in Ling Mahapuran worshiping
South facing Shiva by Bhasam has been mentioned
specifically, proof in these texts certify & it is evident that the
present Jyotilinga of Mahakal south facing aghor shiva statue,
that's why Naga Sadhu's (Followers of Pasupat branch) are
offering Bhasam ashnan daily to him, since ancient times
(according to the evidence of Kondilya it is 1500 years back) is
being performed even today. The ritual of performing Bhasma
ashnan to Mahakal can be carried out only and only by Naga
sadhu's nobody else can do nor should it can be attempted. If
attempted it will destroy the tradition and will hurt the
sentiments of Hindu religion. Today even the Hindu devotees
visit Mahakal to visualize the Bhasma Ashnan of Maharaja
Mahakal.
Antiquity of Mahakal and Pasupat: By 1735 when
Ujjain has come under domination of Marathas at that time
Ranoji Schinde who was appointed by Peshwas, and has
given charge of Ujjain to Diwan Ramchandra this Diwan
Ramchandra had rebuilt the present Mahakal Temple, approx
1235 Shamsuddin Alatmas had robbed and destroyed the
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Mahakal Mandir. Restoration of Mahakal Temple was
executed by Raja Bhoj approx during 1010, state poet Ban
Bhat of Harshvardan who ruled the state during 590647 has
also described about Mahakal & Pasupat in his poem
Harshcharit & Kadambari. During the time of Vikramaditya
great Poet Kalidas has specifically mentioned Mahakal
Temple in his Poetry Raghuvansh and Meghdoot it is difficult
to specify the time of Kalidas, but at least 1650 years is
prevalent in the past not less than that. Apart these
description of Mahakal are found in Puranas and Tantra
shastra also, but time can be mentioned by Historians, we
can't. In book Heart of Jannisium written by Stevenson has
also mentioned that Founder of Jain religion Mahaveer also
visited Ujjain and has performed austerity, famous Mahakal
Temple was established in Ujjaini. What is the truth we can't
say but from the available scripts it can be mentioned that
approx 2000 years past existence of Mahakal Temple is
evident because Historian has predicted the time of
composition and preaching of Pasupat 150 B.C to 1st A.D and
there is indirect form of discussion of Mahakal in Pasupat
Sutra. Now briefly we should view the ancientity of Pasupat.
From 1295 to 1385 a person named Acharya Madhav has
mentioned briefly about Nakulish Pasupat Sight to Shavya
Sect in his book called Sarvya Darshan. In eight century
Shankracharya has specifically discussed about Pashupat
Sect in his Vedant Sutra chapter 2, fart 2, formula 37 which is
an authentic book. This Formula of Vedant has clearly
mentioned of Pasupat Sect by mentioning word Pati so the
Pasupat is ancient the Braham Sutra and the time of
composition of Vedant sutra is between 4000 B.C to 450 B.C
as described by historian in their own way, so it is difficult to
predict the exact time, approx 2000 years back Pasupat Sect
was fully established or it was' in the beginning shape this
can be said.”
Preservation of Mahakaleshwar Linga:
4. This Court has primarily entertained the petition vide order dated
5.5.2017 as it transpired that the idol of Lord Shiva in the form of
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Lingam is in danger due to various causes and it has deteriorated as
such notice was issued to ensure its preservation.
5. The appellant has filed an additional affidavit in the matter of
erosion of Lingam. It has been pointed out that due to the erosion of
Omkareshwar Jyotirlingam, offerings have been banned.
Omkareshwsar Jyotirlingam is situated nearby Ujjain. In this regard,
newspaper report dated 15.11.2006 as to Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlingam
has also been filed.
6. Following is the report dated 15.11.2006 published in the
newspaper UNI :
“ Mahakal Jyotirlinga eroding:
Published: Wednesday, November 15, 2006, 11:40 [IST]
Indore, Nov 15 (UNI) 'Jyotirlingam' of Lord Mahakal at
temple town Ujjain is gradually getting eroded. More
than 30 square cm scalp of the holy 'lingam' has come
out with nearly 78 mm thickness from the eastern side
along with 34 similar circular patches, having 22.5 cm
diameter and 6.5 mm depth, just above the bigger
patch. The entire holy 'lingam' is having geological scal
ing on the western side. Two vertical carving has raised
concern that the 'lingam' will have enough chances of
splitting into three pieces in future.
Dr. Ram S Shrivastava, a known scientist closely ob
serving the holy lingam since 1953, is convinced that if
due care was not taken then "we will have to cut a sorry
figure in future." He said the Mahakal was the oldest
'Jyotirlingams' out of 12 'Jyotirlingams' in the country
and the only one facing south. The Mahakal temple was
destroyed by Sultan Shamsuddin Iltutmish of Delhi in
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1235 and it was later restored by the Scindias in the
19
th
century.
There is a 5,000yearold record available for worships.
It is believed that the 'Jyotirlingam' was found inside the
Koti Teerth Kunda in the Mahakal campus and the tem
ple was first constructed by King Vikramaditya. Dr.
Shrivastava said one of the reasons for erosion could be
pouring of chlorinated water nearly 25,000 litres a day
besides about 80 'pundits' from 16 Brahmin families
massaging the lingam on rotation basis using Bhat
Shringar, Bhang Shirngar etc. Milk' and other offerings
could be accounted in tonnes. Almost every visitor
touched the holy shrine and often rubbed and pressed it
during prayers.”
7. Yet another report dated 7.7.2014 about banning of offerings of
sugar, ghee, milk, curd etc. in the temple at Ujjain has been placed on
record. That management wanted experts to check erosion of
Jyotirlinga of Mahakaleshwar Temple at Ujjain. Following is the report
dated 7.7.2014 :
“Mahakal management wants experts to check
erosion of jyotirlinga
TNN | Jul 7, 2014 11.42 AM IST
UJJAlN: Mahakaleshwar temple administration has
written a letter to the commissioner of state archaeol
ogy department to send a team of experts to examine
reported erosion in treasured stone jyotirlinga at the
temple.
District collector and temple committee head BM
Sharma told newspersons on Saturday that steps
needed to prevent the erosion would follow the report
and suggestions of experts expected to visit the tem
ple shortly.
The issue of erosion of Shivling has been in news for
over a decade, prompting the issuance of guidelines.
But norms were not implemented. .It has been re
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ported several times that use of impure puja materials
like sugar, ghee, milk, curd, and others is causing ero
sion in twoandhalffeet high shivling. The adminis
tration even restricted the use of these materials to
1.25 liter per devotee a few years ago, but it was not
controlled and monitored. Similarly, a suggestion to
establish kiosk of Sanchi milk in temple corridor to en
sure pure milk, ghee to pilgrims, is gathering dust.
The shops outside the temple are selling substan
dard puja materials and devotees have no option but
to buy them.
The shivling at Mahakal is much in height compared
to jyotirlinga at Onkareshwar temple in Khandwa dis
trict and the administration there a few months ago
the restricted use of panchamruit material to avoid
the erosion. Use of sugar granules is already banned
in other Mangalnath temple in Uijain and devotees
have been asked to use powdered sugar.”
Reasons for decay and conservation of heritage monument have
also been placed on record.
8. Later on, an application under Article 142 of the Constitution of
India has also been filed by the appellants for the issuance of
appropriate directions for the preservation of Lingam and prayer has
also been made for the appointment of Expert Committee.
9. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlingam has so much importance for
spiritual and other gains, there is a constitutional duty to protect it as
envisaged in Article 25, Art. 26 read with Article 49, at the same time
there is a fundamental duty under Article 51A of the Constitution to
promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood as provided in
Article 51A and to value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite
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culture. It is also the duty to strive towards excellence in all spheres of
individual and collective activity as provided in Article 51A (a)(j).
Articles 51A (a), (e), (f) and (j) are extracted hereunder:
“[51A. Fundamental Duties.
It shall be the duty of every citizen of India
(a) to abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and
institutions, the National Flag and the National Anthem;
(e) to promote harmony and the spirit of common
brotherhood amongst all the people of India transcending
religious, linguistic and regional or sectional diversities; to
renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women;
(f) to value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite
culture;
(j) to strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual
and collective activity so that the nation constantly rises to
higher levels of endeavour and achievement.”
10.In Ms. Aruna Roy & Ors. v. Union of India & Ors. (2002) 7 SCC
368, this Court has considered the importance of moral values in
religions and it was observed that the religion is the foundation for the
valuebased survival of human beings in a civilized society. The force
and sanction behind civilized society depend on moral values. Religion
should not be misunderstood. The secular democracy requires where
even a very weak man hopes to prevail over a very strong man on the
strength of rule of law by proper understanding of duties towards the
society. In Aruna Roy (supra) this Court has observed thus:
“30. Undisputedly, the aforesaid S.B. Chavan
Committee's report was placed before Parliament for
discussion. None can also dispute that the past five decades
have witnessed a constant erosion of the essential social, moral
and spiritual values and increase in cynicism at all levels. We
are heading for a materialistic society disregarding the entire
13
value based social system. None can also dispute that in a
secular society, moral values are of utmost importance. A
society where there are no moral values, there would neither be
social order nor secularism. Bereft of moral values secular
society or democracy may not survive. As observed by the
Committee, values are virtues in an individual and if these
values deteriorate, it will hasten or accelerate the breakdown of
the family, society, and the nation as a whole. In a society
where there is constant evaporation of social and moral values
for getting property, power or post, is it not advisable to have
a solid social foundation from the base level so that a grownup
person would fight against all kinds of fanaticism, illwill,
violence, dishonesty, corruption, and exploitation? The answer
would obviously be 'yes.'
31. Further, for controlling wild animal instinct in human
beings and for having a civilized cultured society, it appears
that religions have come into existence. Religion is the
foundation for value based survival of human beings in a
civilized society. The force and sanction behind civilized society
depend upon moral values. The philosophy of coexistence and
how to coexist is thought over by the saints all over the world
which is revealed by various philosophers. How to coexist, not
only with human beings but all living beings on the earth,
maybe animals, vegetation and the environment including air
and water, is thought over and discussed by saints and
leaders all over the world which is reflected in religions. If that
is taught, it cannot be objected as it is neither violative of
constitutional or legal rights nor it offends moral values. This
has been dealt with elaborately by the S.B. Chavan Committee.
The Committee as stated above had invited suggestions from
noted educationists on various aspects of valuebased
education. As stated by the Committee it had benefited by the
views of eminent experts/NGOs doing pioneering work in this
area. Further, no one can dispute that truth (satya), righteous
conduct (dharma), peace (shanti), love (prem) and nonviolence
(ahimsa) are the core universal values accepted by all religions.
The Committee has also pointed out that religion is the most
misused and misunderstood concept. However, the process of
making the students acquainted with the basics of all religions,
the values inherited therein and also a comparative study of
the philosophy of all religions should begin; students have to be
made aware that the basic concept behind every religion is
common, only the practices differ. If these recommendations
14
made by the Parliamentary Committee are accepted by NCERT
and are sought to be implemented, it cannot be stated that its
action is arbitrary or unjustified.
32. Further, it appears to be a totally wrong presumption
and contention that knowledge of different religions would
bring disharmony in the society. On the contrary, knowledge of
various religious philosophies is material for bringing communal
harmony as ignorance breeds hatred because of wrong notions,
assumptions, preaching and propaganda by misguided
interested persons.”
11.There is a pious purpose of all the religious activities, no religion
breeds hatred. It is in order to bring harmony and to understand basic
human values and for selfrealization and to visualize the concept of
equality pilgrimages by the various sections of people of various
religions. Secularism is the basic structure of the Constitution that has
to be given the meaning that is developing understanding and respect
towards different religions. The essence of secularism is non
discrimination of people by the State on the basis of religious
differences. In the Commissioner, Hindu Religious Endowments, Madras
vs. Sri Lakshmindra Thirtha Swamiar of Sri Shirur Mutt [AIR 1954 SC
282], this Court has considered the concept of religion under Article 25.
It has been observed that it secures to every person, subject to public
order, health and morality, a freedom not only to entertain such
religious belief, as may be approved of by his judgment and conscience
but also to exhibit his belief in such outward acts as he thinks proper
and to propagate or disseminate his ideas for the edification of others.
15
This Court has observed that the question relating to the
administration of properties belonging to a religious group or institution
are not matters of religion. Religion is a matter of faith with individuals
or communities. It is not necessarily theistic. In the said case it was
observed that "there are wellknown religions in India like Buddhism
and Jainism which do not believe in God or in any Intelligent First
Cause. A religion undoubtedly has its basis in a system of beliefs or
doctrines which are regarded by those who profess that religion as
conducive to their spiritual wellbeing, but it would not be correct to
say that religion is nothing else but a doctrine or belief. A religion may
not only lay down a code of ethical rules for its followers to accept, it
might prescribe rituals and observances, ceremonies and modes of
worship which are regarded as integral parts of religion. The guarantee
under our Constitution not only protects the freedom of religious
opinion but it protects also acts done in pursuance of a religion and
this is made clear by the use of the expression practice of religion."
12.In Prafull Goradia v. Union of India [2011 2 SCC 568] this Court
has observed that if Government is making small expenditures
separately for separate religions, therefore granting support to Haj
pilgrims was not violative of Article 14 or 15. This Court has observed
thus:
“8. In our opinion Article 27 would be violated if a
substantial part of the entire income tax collected in
India, or a substantial part of the entire central excise or
16
the customs duties or sales tax, or a substantial part of
any other tax collected in India, were to be utilized for
promotion or maintenance of any particular religion or
religious denomination. In other words, suppose 25 % of
the entire income tax collected in India was utilized for
promoting or maintaining any particular religion or
religious denomination, that, in our opinion, would be
violative of Article 27 of the Constitution.
10. In our opinion, if only a relatively small part of
any tax collected is utilized for providing some
conveniences or facilities or concessions to any religious
denomination, that would not be violative of Article 27 of
the Constitution. It is only when a substantial part of
the tax is utilized for any particular religion that Article
27 would be violated.
14. Hence, in our opinion, there is no violation of
Article 27 of the Constitution. There is also no violation
of Articles 14 and 15 because facilities are also given,
and expenditures incurred, by the Central and State
Governments in India for other religions. Thus there is
no discrimination.”
13.This Court in Transport & Dock Workers Union v. Mumbai Port
Trust (2011) 2 SCC 575 has considered the essential spending of the
government money on religions when it can be violative of Article 27
and has laid down thus:
“10. Insofar as the provision of Section 9A of the
Industrial Disputes Act is concerned, it was submitted
that since by the policy decision no change in relation to
the personnel who were working was intended to be
brought about, there was no question of giving any
notice of change.
11. The learned Counsel appearing for the appellants
relied on the judgment of the Supreme Court in People's
Union for Democratic Rights v. Union of India AIR 1982
SC 1473 to contend that a writ petition by workers,
when they claim any violation of fundamental right, is
maintainable. The learned counsel also relied on the
judgment of the Supreme Court in Moti Ram v. North
17
East Frontier Railway AIR 1964 SC 600 to claim that
the respondentPort could not have framed a policy
which violates the guarantee of Article 14 of the
Constitution.
12. The learned counsel appearing for the appellants
further relied on the judgment of the Supreme Court the
Olga Tellis v. Bombay Municipal Corporation AIR 1986
SC 180 to contend that even if an undertaking is given,
that undertaking does not stop the person who has
given the undertaking from asserting his fundamental
right.
13. The learned counsel for the respondents on the other
hand relied on the judgments of the Supreme Court, in
Ravi Paul v. Union of India 1995 (3) SCC 300, and M.P.
State Textile Corporation Ltd. v. Mahendra 2005 (10)
SCC 675, and submitted that in one establishment there
can be employees having separate duty hours.
14. In our opinion, the writ petition filed by the
appellants should have been dismissed by the High
Court on the ground of existence of an alternative
remedy under the Industrial Disputes Act. It is well
settled that writ jurisdiction is discretionary jurisdiction,
and the discretion should not ordinarily be exercised if
there is an alternative remedy available to the
appellant. In this case there was a clear alternative
remedy available to the appellants by raising an
industrial dispute and hence we fail to understand why
the High Court entertained the writ petition. It seems to
us that some High Courts by adopting an over liberal
approach are unnecessarily adding to their load of
arrears instead of observing judicial discipline in
following settled legal principles. However, we may also
consider the case on merits.”
14.The Government spends a huge amount on Kumbh/Simhasth
Melas being organized at such places. Even otherwise, when there is a
large number of a gathering of persons every day and in particular
during melas and other festival times, State has obligation to provide
18
the basic amenities to the pilgrims. It is the bounden duty of the
Government to make proper arrangement to provide shelter places, for
maintenance of law and order and to sanction the amount without fear
of violation of the concept of secularism. Right to life includes mental
and intellectual growth which is laid down in Shantistar Builders v.
Narayan Khimalal Totame (1990) 1 SCC 520. In P.G. Gupta v. State of
Gujarat & Ors. (1995) Supp 2 SCC 182, considering the International
covenant on economic, social and cultural rights, food, clothing, and
shelter have been held as part of Article 21.
15.There is a constitutional obligation to preserve the religious
practices of all religions, culture and there is also a corresponding duty
to act in that direction. Similarly, such acts which are necessary for the
preservation of such historical monuments/deities. State is duty bound
to spend the amount so that not only the archaeological, historical and
ancient monuments are preserved but sanctum sanctorum, as well as
the deity otherwise no useful purpose would be served by spending so
much amount on Simhastha/ Kumbh Melas in case deity, is itself
permitted to be deteriorated as it has happened at other places
particularly nearby Omkareshwar Jyotirlingam by offerings and
rubbing it etc. has deteriorated and now barricades have been erected
around the lingam and nobody is permitted to touch it. Same is true
with respect to other important temples of which reports have been
filed. It is apparent from the reports published about Omkareshwar
19
that the administration had banned offering of milk, ghee, water, curd
and other traditional materials to save the Jyotirlingam from further
erosion. It is regrettable that we have not been able to preserve and
protect our Jyotirlingas of immense importance and there was a
proposal to install new Lingam at Omkareshwar in place of original. In
2006, also there was a report of erosion of Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlingam
at Ujjain and it was feared that Jyotirlingam owing to the two vertical
carvings had enough chances of splitting into three pieces in future. On
the strength of a report of known scientist referred to therein, who had
observed Jyotirlinga since 1953, in his opinion, if due care was not
taken we will have to cut a sorry figure in future. Mahakaleshwar is the
oldest Jyotirlingam out of dwadash (twelve) Jyotirlingams in the
country. The main cause of constant erosion of Lingam was water and
other impure material.
16.News Report dated 7.7.2014 also reflects that Mahakaleshwar
temple management wanted experts to check the erosion that was
caused by impure puja materials like sugar, ghee, milk, and curd etc. It
was regretted that suggestion to establish kiosk of Sanchi milk in
temple corridor to ensure pure milk, ghee etc. to pilgrims was gathering
dust. Devotees have no option but to purchase substandard and
adulterated materials.
20
17.As per the report on famous ‘Mangalnath temple' situated at
Ujjain itself, there special Puja and Abhishekam is performed for
‘Mangal Grih Shanti'. The report indicates that District Administration
has banned offering of sugar, vermilion as rubbing thereof was causing
damage to the Shivling. Use of sugar had been banned with immediate
effect as it was causing highest damage and use of other materials had
also to be limited. Use of substandard and chemical contained
vermilion and turmeric powder was also proposed to be checked and it
was decided that herbal articles would be made available for pooja. It is
regrettable that in temple of such immense importance the deities are
being destroyed due to aforesaid impure materials of Puja which are
being offered. A report dated 12.5.2014 had been placed on record
indicating a ban on touching idol of Muktinath Lingam inside
Muktinath Temple in Mustang district of Nepal. It was also mentioned
that the Government team was working on a master plan for the
development of Muktinath temple. Said temple is a holy place for
Buddhists and Hindus.
18.There are other reports placed on record with respect to the
damage being caused to other important deities in the temple like
Mahalaxmi Temple at Kolhapur and Bhoramdev Shivling at Kavardha in
State of Chhattisgarh. Report of erosion of Shivling at Trimbakeshwar
temple in Nasik, Maharashtra. The report indicates that erosion is due
21
to use of excessive use of water etc. We had initially called the
suggestions from Temple Committee itself for preservation of Linga.
INITIAL SUGGESTIONS OF TEMPLE COMMITTEE
19.In compliance of the order dated 5.5.2017 passed by this Court
the Temple Committee has filed following suggestions:
“2. That in compliance of the same the committee
sought a report from the Department of Geology,
Vikram University, Ujjain, Prof. P.K. Verma, Professor
of Applied Geology submitted the report. Hereto an
nexed and marked as ANNEXURE R1/3 is the true
and correct copy of the report dated 11.06.2017.
3. It is submitted that as per the report of Professor
Verma dated 11.06.2017, the corrosion of Shivlinga is
mainly due to touching of Shivlinga with a variety of
impure puja material including adulterated milk, curd,
sugar, sugarcane juice, flowers etc during Abhishek
or other special pooja which are performed regularly,
since time immemorial.
4. Though, as per the observation of Professor Verma,
the process of chemical reaction is supposed to be of
very low intensity, practically negligible. The other
constituents (other than silica) of the rock, however,
are vulnerable to such impure/adulterated pooja ma
terials. He had suggested that these chemical reac
tion & corrosion can be reduced by avoiding usage of
the impure or chemically adulterated pooja materials
over Shivlinga.
5. That keeping in view the suggestion made by Pro
fessor Verma and also with earnest desire of the tem
ple committee to protect any corrosion of Shivlinga, a
special subcommittee was constituted by the Collec
tor, who also is the President of the committee to dis
cuss issue of corrosion as well as to explore the pro
22
posal and remedial measures for avoiding any further
corrosion of Shivlinga. The subcommittee consisted of
the following 7 members.
1. Pt. Shri Anand Vyas, Archeologist
2. Pt. Ghanshyam Sharma / Representative,
Shri M.T.S., Ujjain
3. Pt. Pradeep Sharma, ExSamiti member of
Shri M.T.S., Ujjain
4. Pt. Ashok Sharma – Purohit
5. Shri Prakashendra Mathur, Archeologist
6. Representative of Pollution Control Board
7. Administrator, Shri Mahakaleshwar Mandir
Samiti, Ujjain
6. The first meeting of the subcommittee took place
on 13.06.2017 where the Food Controller of the State
Government also participated in the said meeting. Af
ter a detailed discussion on the remedial measures to
protect the corrosion of Shivlinga the following reme
dial measures were proposed by the committee :
S.No
.
Subject Suggestion
1. Consideration/discussio
n on the milk to be
offered to the God
(Bhagwan)
There is a tradition
of Dugdhbhishek of
Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar. In
this regard, it was
suggested that
highquality milk
may be used. There
must not be any
adulteration in the
milk. Stringent rules
may be made in
23
this regard. For this
purpose, the Temple
Committee (Mandir
Samiti) may make
arrangement for
milk at its own
level. For this
purpose, ‘Sanchi'
can be used and in
future, by
upgrading Temple
Gaushala more, the
milk may be
brought directly
from the Gaushala
to the temple and
the milk imported
from outside
sources may be
strictly prohibited.
2. Consideration/discussio
n on the issue of
Panchamrut Poojan
(offering)
The Panchamrut
ablution is done
every day to God
Shiva. In this
regard, it was
suggested that
Panchamrut may be
prepared by the
Temple
Committee/Samiti
itself. For this
purpose, it may
provide highquality
milk and curd at its
own level and may
not directly mix
sugar in the
Panchamrut. For
this purpose, sugar
dust may be used.
The quantity of
Panchamrut, as
already prescribed
for 1
¼ liter, may be
24
complied with.
Honey (Shahad) etc
may be made
available from the
Gramodyog etc.
3. Consideration /
discussion on worship /
offering materials
On the shops
situated outside the
temple, the
offering/worship
articles are sold,
viz. Abeer, Gulal,
Kumkum (Saffron)
etc. In this regard, it
was suggested that
the Mandir Samiti
(Temple Committee)
may fix a shop or
the Samiti may
itself run a shop
where pure worship
materials may be
available. The
worship materials
being sold presently
in the outside area
of the Temple may
be
prohibited/restricte
d immediately.
4. Discussion on ‘Jalpaatra’For Jalabhishek
(water ablution) of
Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar, the
Jalpatra has been
installed at the
Jaldwar (Watergate).
The said Jalpatra
may be cleaned
every day with hot
water so that the
acid being gathered
in the pipe etc may
not be
25
gathered/accrued.
5. Consideration of the
issue of constantly being
big garland etc. on the
‘Jyotirling of Bhagwan
(the God)'.
Constant
Jalabhishek (water
ablution) is done to
the Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar
from 06 O’clock
morning till 4.30 PM
in the evening. For
this purpose, a big
garland etc may
remain constantly on
the ‘Jyotirling of
Bhagwan’ so that
water, milk etc. may
not fall directly on
the Jyotirling.
6 Consideration of the
issue of a test of water,
milk, and articles etc.
This suggestion was
received in the
meeting that the
articles and
materials from
which the worship
etc. of Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar is
done every day, all
these may be tested
once, from which
this fact may be
clear that which
material is
positive/suitable for
the Jyotirling and
which materially
affects the Jyotirling
negatively.
Hereto annexed and marked as ANNEXURE R1/4 is
the true and correct copy of the minutes of the meet
ing dated 13.06.2017.
26
That the said proposal has been accepted by the com
mittee for implementation and the temple committee is
accordingly taking steps to protect the Shivlinga. The
above proposal is according submitted before the
Hon’ble Court.”
REPORT BY PROF. PRAMOD K. VERMA DATED 11.06.2017
20.A Report by Prof. Pramod K. Verma dated 11.6.2017 has also
been filed by the Committee in the form of Annexure R1/3, which is as
under:
“JAI SHRI MAHAKAL
11
th
June 2017
This brief description comprises visual observation
of Lord Mahakaleshwara Shiv Linga for its potential
erosion due to pooja offerings by devotees.
By an invitation from Mahakaleshwara Mandir
Samiti, I along with Dr.Awadesh Bhatt visited the
Lord Mahakaleshwar Temple on 08th June 2017 at
2:00 pm for performing the above task. For obvious
reasons, it was possible to have an only limited ob
servation and thus, only torch and hand lens was
used.
The following observations were made:
1. The Sacred Shiva Linga is approximately 2 feet in
diameter and 2 feet in height.
2. The Shiva Linga is made up of Sandstone (looks
very similar to Vindhya Sandstone which occurs in
the nearby areas).
3. The sandstone is of arenaceous in nature with the
major percentage of quartz clasts of the size generally
less than 2 mm. The clasts are clearly visible through
a hand lens.
27
4. The other clast material appears to be feldspar (or
thoclase) giving the rock a typical pinkish colour.
5. The matrix is also of an almost similar composition.
6. The cementing material is mostly siliceous. How
ever, a small amount of calcareous/feldspathic (not
distinguished by lens observation) cementing materi
als is also present.
7. The cementing material other than siliceous matter
is likely to undergo dissolution when exposed to the
acidic environment. As a result, there may develop
tiny depressions (or pits) over the Shiva Linga.
8. The depressions or pits may occur when adulter
ated/impure pooja materials are offered over Shiva
Linga during Abhisheks. The corrosion, in the long
run, may occur due to touching of Shiva Linga with a
variety of impure pooja materials including adulter
ated milk, curd, sugar, sugarcane juice, flowers etc
during Abhishek or other special pooja which are per
formed regularly.
10. Once even a small pit is formed, these materials
may get into the rock and, may try to loosen the bond
ing by various chemical processes.
11. As the rock is largely composed of a siliceous ma
terial, the process of chemical reaction is supposed to
be of very low intensity, practically negligible. The
other constituents (other than silica) of the rock, how
ever, are vulnerable to such impure/adulterated pooja
materials.
12. A more systematic and scientific investigation
may be needed to come to a firm conclusion.
13. Nonetheless, at this stage, it is suggested that im
pure or chemically adulterat4ed pooja materials must
be avoided by offering over Shiva Linga."
28
21.The Minutes of the Meeting dated 13.6.2017 of the Temple
Committee have also been placed on record vide R1/4. The relevant
portion is extracted hereunder:
“ SHRI MAHAKALESHWAR MANDIR SAMITI, UJ
JAIN
MINUTES OF MEETING DATED 13.06.2017
Today a meeting was held in the Administrative of
fice of Mahakaleshwar Temple under the Chairman
ship of Shri S.S. Rawat, Administrator, and Joint Col
lector, with regard to as to how Lord Mahakaleshwar
Jyotirlinga can be best protected. The following mem
bers were present:
1. Dr. Prakashendra Mathur Archeologist
2. Pt. Pradeep Sharma ExSamiti Member
3. Pt. Ashish Sharma Representative of
Pujari
4. Pt. Ashok Sharma Purohit
5. Shri D.V.S. Rawat Pollution
Department
6. Shri Shailesh Kumar Gupta Food Controller
A discussion was held by the members present at
the meeting in respect of erosion in the Jyotirling and
following suggestions were proposed by the Commit
tee:
S.N
.
Subject Suggestion
1.Consideration/discussion on
the milk to be offered to the
God (Bhagwan)
There is a tradition
of Dugdhbhishek of
Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar. In
this regard, it was
suggested that high
quality milk may be
used. There must
not be any
29
adulteration in the
milk. Stringent rules
may be made in this
regard. For this
purpose, the Temple
Committee (Mandir
Samiti) may make
arrangement for
milk at its own level.
For this purpose,
‘Sanchi' can be used
and in future, by
upgrading Temple
Gaushala more, the
milk may be brought
directly from the
Gaushala to the
temple and the milk
imported from
outside sources may
be strictly
prohibited.
2.Consideration/discussion on
the issue of Panchamrut
Poojan (offering)
The Panchamrut
ablution is done
every day to God
Shiva. In this
regard, it was
suggested that
Panchamrut may be
prepared by the
Temple Committee /
Samit itself. For this
purpose, it may
provide highquality
milk and curd at its
own level and may
not directly mix
sugar in the
Panchamrut. For
this purpose, sugar
dust may be used.
The quantity of
Panchamrut, as
30
already prescribed
for 1
¼ liter, may be
complied with.
Honey (Shahad) etc
may be made
available from the
Gramodyog etc.
3.Consideration/discussion on
worship/offering materials
On the shops
situated outside the
temple, the
offering/worship
articles suggestion
in, viz. Abeer, Gulal,
Kumkum (Saffron)
etc. In this regard, it
was suggested that
the Mandir Samiti
(Temple Committee)
may fix a shop or
the Samiti may itself
run a shop where
pure worship
materials may be
available. The
worship materials
being sold presently
in the outside area
of the Temple may
be prohibited/
restricted
immediately.
4.Discussion on ‘Jalpaatra’ For Jalabhishek
(water ablution) of
Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar, the
Jalpaatra has been
installed at the
Jaldwar
(Watergate). The
said Jalpatra may
be cleaned every
day with hot water
so that the acid
31
being gathered in
the pipe etc. may
not be gathered/
accrued.
5.Consideration of the issue of
constantly being Sandstone
garland etc on the ‘Jyotirling
of Bhagwan (the God).
Constant
Jalabhishek (water
ablution) is done to
the Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar
from 06 O’clock
morning till 4.30 PM
in the evening. For
this purpose, a big
garland etc may
remain constantly
on the ‘Jyotirling of
Bhagwan’ so that
water, milk etc may
not fall directly on
the Jyotirling.
6.Consideration of the issue of
a test of water, milk, and
articles etc.
This suggestion in
the meeting that the
articles and
materials from
which the worship
etc of Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar
crowd every day, all
these may be tested
once, from which
this fact may be
clear that which
material is
positive/suitable for
the Jyotirling and
which materially
affects the Jyotirling
negatively.
Sd/
Administrator & Joint Collector
Shri Mahakaleshwar Mandir Samiti
32
Ujjain”
CONSTITUTION OF COMMITTEE OF ASI/ GSI BY THIS COURT
22.This Court vide order dated 25.8.2017 had constituted a
Committee of two officers of the Archaeological Survey of India and two
officers of the Geological Survey of India to submit the report. Following
is the relevant extract of the order:
“A proposal has been submitted by Mr. Tushar
Mehta, learned ASG for a constitution of an Expert
Committee and to nominate the names of two officers
of Archaeological Survey of India and two officers of
Geological Survey of India. It is submitted by Mr.
Mehta that the officers are experts in the field.
The Central Government suggests the following
team :
1.For Archaeological
Survey of India
1. Shri Madan Singh
Chauhan, Regional
Director, (Archaeologist),
ASI, Central Region,
Bhopal
2. Dr. V.K.Saxena,
Director (Science),
(Archaeological Chemist),
ASI, Science Branch,
Dehradun
2.For Geological Survey
of India
1. Shri Hemraj
Suryavanshi, Dy. Director,
General, State Unit,
Madhya Pradesh, GSI,
Bhopal.
2. Shri L.L. Vishwakarma,
Director, GSI, Bhopal
33
The Union of India shall bear the expenses of the
Committee so formed. The Committee to study/survey/
analyze/examine Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlingam of Ujjain
(MP) and to prepare a report containing the rate at which
the deterioration in the size of Lingam is taking place, if
any, and the measures/ steps/ precautions to be taken
to ensure that this deterioration/shrinkage of the
Lingam stops. Let the Committee also study the other
structures and also the temple and submit what steps
are required to be taken to overall improve the entire
premises and for its preservation.
Let the Committee make a study and report seeing
as how much deterioration of Lingam has taken place
during the last threefour decades and what remedial
steps have to be another part.
Let the Committee submit a report be within a
period of four weeks from today. A copy of the report as
and when submitted be furnished to the learned counsel
for the parties. We request the Administrator to extend
fullest cooperation.
List the matter on Tuesday i.e. 03.10.2017.”
REPORT BY EXPERT COMMITTEE OF ASI/ GSI
23.Following is the report (excluding photographs) submitted by the
aforesaid Experts of ASI and GSI:
“ REPORT
ON THE STUDY / SURVEY / ANALYSIS / EXAMINATION OF
MAHAKALESHWAR JYOTIRLlNGAM OF UJJAIN (MP)
BY :
1: Madan Singh Chauhan, Regional Director, A.S.I., Central Region,
Bhopal
2: Dr. V.K. Saxena. Director (Science), A.S.I., Science, Branch
Dehradun
3: Hemraj Suryavanshi, Dy. Director General, GSI, Bhopal
4: L.L. Vishwakarma, Director (G.S.I.), Bhopal
34
ABOUT THE REPORT
This report is being submitted to the Additional Solicitor General of
India by the Committee Members of Archaeological Survey of India
(ASI) and Geological Survey of India. Conservation status and the
causes of decay/deterioration of the Jyotirlinga in general on the
basis of his knowledge of the subject and experience in the field.
The report is divided into 4 (Four) Chapters.
1
st
Chapter of the report deals with the archaeological and religious
significance of the Mahakal temple and need for its proper
maintenance and restoration made by Madan Singh Chauhan,
Regional Director, ASI, Central Region, Bhopal.
2
nd
Chapter of the report deals with the general observations made
by Dr. V. K. Saxena, Director (Science), ASI with respect to the
overall decay/deterioration of the Jyotirlinga on the basis of his
knowledge of the subject and experience in the field.
3
rd
Chapter deals with the Geoscientific study of the Shivalinga
made by Hemraj Suryavanshi Dy. Director General and L.L.
Vishvakarma, Director, Geological Survey of India, Bhopal.
4
th
Chapter deals with the suggestions and recommendations and
remedial measures.
CONTENTS
CHAPTER∙ I
1: RELIGIOUS AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF
UJJAIN AND MAHAKAL TEMPLE
1.1: Introduction
1.2: Religious and historical significance
1.3: Prevalence of tangible and intangible heritage in Ujjain
1.4: Archaeological evidence
1.5: Mahakal temple and premise
1.6: Condition of garbhagriha and shivalinga
1.7 A: Shivalinga, modification, and effect
B:Morning worship and material used in the worship
1.8: Maintenance and restoration of temple premise and activities
35
CHAPTER II
2: NATURAL (PHYSICO~CHEMICAL) WEATHERING OF STONE WITH
REFERENCE TO MAHAKAL JYOTIRLlNGA
2.1 General Chemical Characteristics of Some of the Offerings Used
During Rituals:
Milk
Dahi or curd
Homemade deshi Ghee
Honey
Sugar products
Sandal or Chandan
Bhang (Cannabis)
Abir or Gulal
Kanku or Kumkum
Fruit juices
Bhasm/ Ashes of cow dunks cake
Oil lamps, Dhoop or incense sticks
2.2. Natural Weathering of sandstone
A: Water A major cause of the decay of stone
B: Biological decay or Biodeterioration of stone
2.3. Examination of the Mahakal Jyotirlinga and Garbhgriha
A: General Observation of the Jyotirlinga
B: Drainage facilities for the disposal of the liquids and solids
C: Electrical fittings
2.4. Other Observations
CHAPTER III
GEOSCIENTIFIC STUDY OF JYOTIRLINGAM MAHAKALESHWER,
UJJAIN
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Observation and studies of Jyotirlingam
3.2.1 Visual observation
3.2.2 Studies based instrument
3.2.2(a) Spectral studies by Spectroradiometer
3.2.2(b) Portable XRF studies
3.3 Water analysis by portable water analysis kit and ICPMS
Instruments
3.3.1 Ash analysis
3.4 Discussion and interpretation
3.4.1 Extent of weathering
36
3.4.2 Causative factor
3.4.3 Weathering through ages
CHAPTER IV
A: SUGGESTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
B: REMEDIAL MEASURES
DETAILS OF ANNEXURES
I. Worship schedule and offering material of Jyotirlingam,
Mahakaleshwer Temple, Ujjain
II. Spectroscopy study of Jyotirlingam of Mahakaleshwer temple,
Madhya Pradesh, XRF Study of Jyotirlingam of Mahakaleshwer
Temple, Ujjain
III(a) Approximate chemical analysis of Lingam rock by portable
XRF instrument
IV(a) Chemical analysis of water samples from Mahakaleshwer
temple premises, Ujjain
(b) Trace element analysis in water samples from Mahakaleshwer
premises Ujjain
IV(c) Chemical analysis of bhashma offered to Jyotirlingam: and
ash samples from Mahakal temple
1.1 INTRODUCTION : On the direction of the Additional Solicitor
General of India, the Director General, Archaeological Survey of
India, in his office letter no. 33/BO/2017M dated 24.8.2017
recommended names of undersigned for the Committee to assess
the deterioration of Shivalinga of Mahakal Temple at Ujjain and to
prepare a report containing the rate at which the deterioration in
the size of Lingam is taking place during lost threefour decades, if
any, and the measures/steps/precautions to be taken to ensure
this deterioration/ shrinkage of the Lingam stops. Beside that to
study the other structures and also the temple and submit what
steps are required to be taken to the overall improvement of the
entire premise and for its preservation. In pursuance of the
direction, the temple known as Mahakal or Mahakaleshwar at
Ujjain was inspected by the Committee Members jointly on
7.9.2017.
Before putting the observation on the assessment of the
Shivalinga and temple of Mahakal and other subsidiary shrines
inside the premise it was felt inevitable by the committee to
37
highlight its Archaeological, Historical and religious significance so
that, on that perspective, an assessment could be made.
In Ujjain, Mahakal temple is located in the west of the city on
the bank of River Kshipra in ancient time that area was known as
Mahakala Vana (Mahakal forest). It is 192 km west of capital city
Bhopal and takes around three hours by road journey from Bhopal
to reach here.
Mahakal temple is one of the most venerated temples known
by this name and one of the twelve famous Jyotirlingas shrines of
the country.
1.2 RELIGIOUS AND HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE
The grandiose of Mahakal and Ujjain / Avanti occurs equally in
the ancient texts of Brahmanical, Buddhist and Jaina sects.
Avanti has been referred as country and Ujjain as its capital in
the ancient texts. The first name of "Avanti "is liter in the
Yajurveda for the meaning of protection. It is said that Ujjain was
also named as Avanti and this name is nomenclatured after the
name of Avanti: a son of Kartaviryaarjuna of Mahishamati
kingdom. In Meghadut of Kalidasa, Abhidhanchintamani and in
Naradapurana it was termed as Avantika, Avantikapuri,
Avantinagari or Avantikapur, Vishala, Pushkarandini, Nandini,
Amravati, Kanakashringa, Kushasthali, Padmavati, Kumudvati,
and Pratikalpa. It is believed, existed in six kalpas and in each
Kalpa it was called as Swarnashringa, Kushasthali, Avantika,
Amravati, Chudamoni, and Padmawati. In kathasaritsagara, it is
mentioned that Ujjain was called in four names in four yugas like
Padmavati Bhogawati, Hiranyawati, and Ujaini. In Kuvalayamala
its name is referred as Kushal Nagari.
It is said that during the churning of the sea by the gods
and demons then begun the wild scramble for immortality with
the demons chasing the gods across the skies and in the process,
a few drops of nectar were split and fell at Hardwar, Prayag,
Nasik, and Ujjain.
There are different meanings of "Ujjain' and 'Ujhain". It
means protection, a tradition wherein people worshipped Indra for
rain, in Gujarati and Prakrit it means a picnic, in Sanskrit, it is
called as udyan or garden. In the north Himalayan region, it
means attempt for any special task while in the Malwa tradition
this word is called when people worship Lord Indra by keeping fast
38
for rain.
ln Pali language it is called Ujani, in Prakrit Ujaiyani,
Ptolemy referred it as Ozen, HuenTsang calls it Ujayana, Arab
geographer referred it as Ujjhen and in the coins, name occurred
as Ujani. In the Mrichchakatika play of Sudraka of 5
th
century AD,
Ujjain was inhabited by various communities viz. Shakas,
Tushars, Greeks, Persians, Magadha, Kirata, Kalinga, Bongo,
Mahishak, Chole, Pandya, trader of Kerala and several prostitutes.
In the Skandapurana there are references to seven seas or
Saptasagaras mentioned as Pushkar Sagara, Kshira Sagara,
Goverdhan Sagara. Rantnakar Sagara, Vishnu Sagara,
Purishottama Sagara and Rudra Sagara. The Rudra Sagara is
mentioned in the Mahakal Vana (nearby the Mahakal temple). As
a religious city, Ujjain occupied the same place as of the Benaras,
Goya, Mayapuri, and Kanchipuram. By the 6th century BC, Avanti
with its capital at Ujjain is mentioned in Buddhist literature as
one of the four great powers along with Vatsa, Kosala, and
Magadha. Ujjain locates on the ancient trade route which
connected north India to the south via Mathura Ujjain
Mahishmati Paithan and then to western Asia. Periplus gave the
accounts of Ujjain referred by him as Ozene is to the east of
Barygaza (Broach) which fed all commodities of the trade like
onyx, porcelain, fine muslins. mellow coloured muslins and
cotton, spikenard and costusbodellium. In the Udaipur, prashasti
mentions Vakati I of Paramara dynasty as the king of Avanti and
they are said to form their capital at Mahakala vana at present
Ujjain. The Mahipal and his kalachuri confederate Bhamana deva
are said to have conquered the territory up to banks of Narmada
including Ujjain and Dhar. The downfall of this wealthy city begun
in 1234 with the invasion of IItutamish of Slave dynasty of Delhi
who along with the, also dismantled Mahakafa temple and in
search of treasure he dismantled Shivalinga from the jaladhari or
pithika and thrown into kotitirtha and picked up golden idols
including idol of Vikramaditya and brought to Delhi.
During the time of Mughal king Akbar, a city wall was
constructed around the city for the defense of Ujjainisand Nandi
Darwaja, Kaliadeh Darwaja, Sati Darwaja, Dewas darwaja and
Indore darwaja were the various entrances to the city.
In 1658 a battle took place near Ujjain in which Aurangzeb
and Murad defeated Maharaja Jaswant Singh of Jodhpur who
was fighting on behalf of Prince Dara.
39
Thereafter Sawai Jai Singh was made governor of Malva by
Muhammad Shah who built an observatory and several other
temples over there. In the 17th century, this region of Malwa came
under the sway of Maratha who constructed numbers of temples
in Ujjain and modern Ujjain came into existence. During this
period the artists especially painters of Poona and Kangra styles
flourished their art in the structures of Ujjain and distinctive
wooden carving on the balconies and galleries were decorated in
Ujjain. Thereafter this legendary city of Ujjain came under the
control of Scindias from 1750 1810. Ramoji Scindia was powerful
Sardar of Maratha who made Ujjain the capital of Malwa. He
remained always busy in the wars hence his diwan
Ramachandra baba look after the affairs of Ramoji Scindia. On
the information supplied by the local brahmins regarding
dumping of Shivalinga into the kotitirtha by Iltutamisha,
Ramachandra baba exposed that Shivalinga and installed inside
the main place and constructed temple over the original place.
Thus present temple is of Maratha period. In 1810 Doulat Rao
Scindia shifted his capital at Gwalior and subsequently, Ujjain
lost its commercial importance.
1.3 PREVALENCE OF TANGIBLE AND INTANGIBLE HERITAGE IN
UJJAIN
As stated above that Ujjain is a very ancient city of great religious
and heritage significance even today there are numbers of
temples with living tradition existing over here preserving both
tangible and intangible heritage of the country. Apart from the
Mahakal temple, other known temples in Ujjain are 84 temples
dedicated to Lord Shiva in different names as below;
1: Augusteshwara Mahadev,
2: Gurihshwar Mahadev,
3: Dudeshwar Mahadev,
4: Damrukeshwar Mahadev,
5: Anadikalpeshwor Mahodev,
6: Swaranjaleshwar Mahadev,
7: Tivisthpeshwar Mahadev,
8: Kapaleshwar Mahdev,
9: Swargdwareshwar Mahadev,
10: Karkotakeshwar Mahadev,
11: Siddheshwar Mahadev,
12: Lokapaleshwar Mahadev,
13: Kameshwar Mahadev,
14: Kutumbeshwar Mahadev,
40
15: Indradumneshwar Mahadev,
16: Ishaneshwar Mahadev,
17: Apsareshwar Mahadev,
18: Kolkleshwor Mahadev,
19: Nagchandreshwar Mahadev,
20: Pratihareshwar Mahadev,
21: Kukuteshwar Mahadev,
22: Karkateshwar Mahadev,
23: Meghnadeshwar Mahadev,
24: Mahalayeshwar Mahadev,
25: Mukteshwar Mahadev,
26: Someshwar Mahadev,
27:Anarkeshwar Mahadev,
28: Jateshwar Mahadev,
29: Rameshwar Mahadev,
30: Chavaneshwar Mahadev,
31: Khandeshwar Mahadev,
32: Pattaneshwar Mahadev,
33: Anandeshwar Mahadev,
34: Kanthadeshwar Mahadev,
35: Indraeshwar Mahadev,
36: Markandeshwara Mahadev,
37: Shiveshwara Mahadev,
38: Kusumeshwara Mahadev,
39: Akrureshwara Mahadev,
40: Kundeshwara Mahadev,
41: Lumpeshwara Mahadev,
42: Gangaeshwara Mahadev,
43: Angarkeshwar Mahadev.
44: Utaareshwar Mahadev,
45: Trilochaneshwara Mahadev,
46: Veereshwara Mahadev,
47: Nripeshwara Mahadev,
48: Abhayeshwara Mahadev,
49: Prithukeshwara Mahadev,
50: Sthavareshwara Mahadev,
51: Shooleshwara Mahadev,
52: Onkareshwara Mahadev,
53: Shree Vishveshwara Mahadev,
54: Kanheshwara Mahadev,
55: Singheshwara Mahadev,
56: Revanteshwora Mahadev,
57: Ghanteshwara Mahadev,
58: Prayageshwara Mahadev,
59: Siddheshwara Mahadev,
60: Matangeshwara Mahadev,
41
61: Soubhageshwara Mahadev,
62: Rupeshara Mahadev,
63: Sahastradhanukeshwara Mahadev,
64: Pashupateshwara Mahadev,
65: Brahameshwara Mahadev,
66: Jalpeshwara Mahadev,
67: Kedareshwara Mahadev,
68: Pishachamukteshwara Mahadev,
69: Sangameswar Mohadev,
70: Dudhareshwar Mahadev,
71: Yogeshwar Mahadev.
72: Chandradityayeshwara Mahadev,
73: Karbheshwar Mahadev,
74: Rajsthaleshwar Mahadev,
75: Badleshwar Mahadev,
76: Aruneshwar Mahadev,
77: Pushpadanteshwara Mahadev,
78: Abhimukteshwara Mahadev,
79: Hanumanteshwara Mahadev,
80: Swapneshwara Mahadev,
81: Pingleshwara Mahadev,
82: Kayavarohaneshwar Mahadev,
83: Bitkeshwar Mahadev, Durdureshwar Mahadev.
These Mahadeva's temples are in the Ujjain city itself while
out of eightyfour the temples of four are within the same
premise of the Mahakaleshwara temple. These are
Anadikalpeshwara Mahadev, Thrivisthapreshwara Mahadev,
Chandradityeshwara Mahadev, and Swapneshwara Mahadev.
Besides Shiva temples in the city, there are nine temples
dedicated to lord Vishnu known by "Nau Narayana" (nine
Narayana) are; 1: Ananta Narayana, 2: Satya Narayana, 3:
Purushottama Narayana, 4: Adi Narayana 5: Shesha Narayana,
6: Padma Narayana, 7: Laxmi Narayana, 8: Badri Narayana, 9:
Chaturbhuja Narayana.
Other religious and heritage places are Avanti devi temple,
Bade Ganesh temple, Harsiddhi Shakti Peeth, Ramghat, Datta
Akhada, Chaubis Khamba, Gopal Temple, Yogeshwar tekri
(Tope), Nagar kot Maharani temple, Chaunsath Yogini, Sandipani
Ashram, Mangalnath, Angareshwor, Ramajanardan temple,
Chitragupta temple, Gada Kalika temple, Vindhyavasini temple,
Tomb of Matsyanath, Bhrutahari cave, Kalbhairava temple,
Siddhvatta, Kaliadehmahal, Ashtachiranjivi, Rinmukteshwar,
Aagyabetal, Veer Durgadas ki chhatri, Vedshala, Chintamani
42
Ganesha, Novagriha temple, Iskon temple, Ramanujakot, and
Archaeological Museum.
1.4 ARCHAEOLOGICAL EVIDENCE:
The site of ancient Ujjain is not however identical with the
modern city of Ujjain. As the time passed, the socalled Mahakal
vana converted into a populous city while the ancient city is now
a desolate waste and known as Garh which is situated at the
north of the modern city of Ujjain and converted into a tabled
land of about 9 15 m above the adjoining plain.
The excavation carried out in the preindependent era and
after was done in a different location nearby the city. In the first
excavation of the site in Ujjain in 193839 Garde, its
archaeological potentiality was proved by the findings of a large
miscellany of coins, terracotta, beads, and pottery etc. after that
further excavation was carried out in vaishya tekri, kumhar tekri
and pallevali or kankar tekri where excavation yielded brick
stupas. In the Kumahar tekri, other antiquities were also
recovered dated of 1
st
century BC. Thereafter further excavation
was carried out in 195558 and 196465.
In 1955 58, Site of excavation was chosen at Garh Kalika
mound where significant result was found in; period I; 750 to 500
BC; black and red ware, bright redware, double slipware and few
sherds of PGW and remains of rampart and remains of mud brick
fortification of about 74.67 to 197 m wide enclosed by moat,
evidence of road of 7.32 m wide, other objects of iron which may
go back about 1000 BC. In period 11, NBPW with the association
of thick grey ware and unslipped redware remains of structure
made of mud, mud brick and stone rubble, ring wells, punch mark
coins and ivory seal bearing inscription dated 2
nd
century BC was
obtained. In period III, evidence included antiquities and remains
dated in three phases i.e. from Sunga, Satvahana, Kushana, and
Gupta period (200 BCSOO AD). From late Gupta to early Parmara
period (500AD 900 AD) and from Parmara to Muslim (900 1300
AD). In the period IV, apart from other antiquities coins of
Aurangazeb, Shah Alam, Daulat Rao Scindia and Jankoji Rao
Scindia were recovered.
In 1964 65 excavations a small structure of limestone basin
was found associated with NBP.
43
1.5 MAHAKAL TEMPLE AND PREMISE: There are total 142 small
and large temples including Mahakal temple inside the temple
premise, of them, some are raised independently on the floor of
the premise and some attached in the niches and cells of the main
and other temples but all are counted and venerated separately.
At the southwest of the Mahakal temple has Anadikalpeshwar
Mahadev temple on a slightly raised platform now converted into
a new construction in red stone flooring all around the temple
and steps at the north side for reaching to the temple. This
temple also faces east and consists of a Nandi mandapa,
saonotnorciooa, mandapa, and garbhagriha. Garbhgriha enshrines a
Shivalinga within jaladhari. The garbhagriha, mandapa, and
pillars of sabhamandapa and Nandi mandal appear old while the
roof of the latter two are new constructions and painted in pink
colour.
On the right of the Anadikalpeshwar temple has
Briddhakaleshwar temple on the same level of floor as the former
laid in red stone flooring like Anadikalpeshwar, this temple is
also repaired with unmatched paintings on the roof of main
shikhara and mandapa, while on the walls of mandapa, new
stones are added in between the pillars to cover the mandapa.
Just backside of the Briddhakaleshwar temple is a small
shrine constructed only to enshrine an old sculpture of Lord
Vishnu which is now in a poor state of preservation as a thick
patina of oil and other offering material has been developed over
this image.
On the east side of the Anadikalpeshwar and
Briddhakaleshwar temples are other shrines of various
dimensions dedicated to different deities. All these are painted in
pink and red colors. They all are raised on the different level of
the floor covered in red stone flooring. All the shrines are more or
less modified with marble, red stone, and modern tile flooring
and paintings of many different colors especially at the inner
sides of the shrines. In some of the temples like Balavijaya
Maruti temple whole interior and exterior has been changed with
modern tiles used on the floor and walls.
On the west side of the Mahakal temple is kotitirtha
(ancient pond) surrounded by the modern structures and
dharamshalas at north, west and south sides. In between the
kotitirtha and structures, there is a sufficient space developed
with stone steps all around for leading to the kotitirtha. Besides
44
that, numbers of miniature shrines raised in four pillars and
topped by round dome like shikhara enshrining each with
Shivalinga, are built around the pond indicating of kotitirtha
(innumerable pilgrimage).
Beside that numbers of small shrines are raised at the front
side (eastnorth) of the main temple in varying sizes and
dimensions.
The garbhagriha (sanctum) of Mahakal appears basically a
cave enshrined with Shivalinga. It is quite deep below the ground
level. There is no physical evidence available there about the
construction of original temple, but as of now, the temple
existing over the main sanctum is of very late period probably of
Maratha period (18
th
century AD) wherein some of the traits of
bhumija style of Parmara period appears adopted in the walls and
shikhara of the shrine. Therefore, it can be inferenced that prior to
this temple of Maratha period, here was the temple in the Bhumija
style of which traits were adopted in the present temple.
Over the sanctum, Mahakal temple faces east, supported
by total 48 pillars arranged in 7 rows but when sanctum, where
the main Jyotirlingam enshrines, is entered, it can be reached
from two the narrow passages from east and west sides through
two doorframes on the south and the north sides. The general
public is allowed to enter through north side doorframe while
south doorframe has been used by the staff and VIPs for
entering into the garbhagriha (sanctum). The south side
doorframe is composed of three shakhas and is approached by a
flight of steps down to the ground floor whence another
doorframe of plain design opens at south into the garbhgriha.
On the north side, doorframe, plain in design, has cladded
in silver metal and ornamented in religious figurines, symbols
and canopied by snake at the fintel.
In the premise, Mahakal temple occupies a central place.
Besides that, there are about 142 other temples in small and
large size constructed within the premise. Of them
Briddhakaleshwar and Anadikalpeshwar temples are
considerably larger and almost corresponding in core style and
both locates at south of the Mahakal temple, other dedicated to
Sakhshigopal, Veerbhadra Mahadev, Ichcha Ganesh,
Mangalnath Avantikadevi, Koteshwar Mahadev, Rakeshwar
Mahadev, Suryamukhi Hanuman, Balahanuman, Bhadrakali,
45
Siddha tantra, Ram mandi, Narsimha, Nilakantheshwar,
Kashivishvanath, Annapurna Devi, Gayatridevi, vitthalnath ere
are small. Mahakal temple is constructed in three floors above the
ground floor. Each floor at the front is provided by a portico
supported with pillars.
The underground floor is dedicated to the Mahakal wherein
garbhagriha enshrines a shivalinga, ground floor to Omkareshwar
wherein another small shivaling enshrines, the first floor has a
cell, and second consists of a sanctum with Shivallinga, also a
sculpture of Nagchandreshwar is placed inside a niche on the
north wall of the 2
nd
floor and covered by a glass window.
On the south side at the ground floor, a doorframe opens
into narrow steps leading to the 1
st
and 2
nd
floors which appear
not for general public but only for pujaris for worshipping
Nagchandreshwar. It appears that prior to Maratha period whole
temple might have constructed in parmara style and when fallen
it was probably attempted to restore in the same style but could
not be adopted in ditto, therefore, a new Pushpa had evolved with
a blend of Parmara Maratha style. Architecturally, the temple
can be classified into three broad part from below to top
consisting of vedibandha, jangha, and shikhara. From the ground,
each projection raises equally up to the jangha and then to the
top where it terminates into a large finial. On the ground floor,
there is each portico provided on the north, west and south sides
to enter the sanctum of this floor by doorframe of plain design.
There is no extraordinary decoration on the outer walls except
moldings at lower walls and miniature shrines at the shikhara. At
the ground level whole temple has been supported with 48 pillars
on front side and pilasters on the corners of the walls.
1.6: CONDITION OF GARBHAGRIHA AND JYOTIRLINGA/
SHIVLINGA/ LINGAM
In the ground floor, the garbhogriho of Mahakal is almost a
square cell measuring 4.16 x 4.16 m enshrining with a Shivalinga
within jaladhari with silver encasing measuring a length of 2.08 m
and dia in 1.27 m. Generally, the mouth of jaladhari opens into
the north side but here it opens at the east direction.
The inner walls and ceiling of the sanctum are cladded with
the silver sheets and decorated with different religious symbols
and images and niches on the east, west and north walls are
provided and enshrined with a metal sculpture of Kartikeya,
46
Ganesha, and Goddess Parvati respectively and they are in folkish
style. In 1996 these sculptures made of silver were placed inside
the niches which earlier were in marble stones.
A silver sheet embossed with tracery has been provided on
walls of the garbhgriha in 2016. The walls are tracered in two
parts; the lower half with the motifs of (+) design while upper with
the motifs of Pushpa, Kalasha, trishula, swasthik, ardhachandra,
shankha, dhanushaBana, gada, kamandal, Nandi, chimta,
swastika dwaja, Simha and such many other religious symbols.
The ceiling has been interestingly incised with Rudrayantra
of 271 distichs. We were informed by the local Pujaris that this
silver ceiling has been provided in 1996 when earlier ceiling which
was of silver plaque inlayed with stones, were fallen. The yantra
was recreated in the same style as it was in original and installed
in the silver sheet and fixed slightly upward than the earlier one.
There are two silver lampstands (deepdaan) inside the
garbhagriha on either side of the Shivalinga which originally are of
stone but encased in brass. In 1994 brass encasing of both were
replaced with silver cladding.
1.7 A: SHIVALINGA, MODIFICATION, AND EFFECT
Shivalinga/ Jyotirlinga of Mahakal is considered as sthavara or
Achala and Swayambhulinga or Uttamottamalinga (most superior
linga). In the kamikagama, Swayambhulinga is described as one
which rose up and came into existence by itself and had existed
from time immemorial. As such even if such type of linga is
slightly damaged they need no jirnodhwaro (resetting up).
In the garbhagriha sandstone shivaling is directly rose at the
center and within the jaladhari (Saluka ) facing east. It is 67.5 cms
in height and 42.97 cms India within the jaladhari of 127 cms
India and 208 cms in length. In 28.12.1924 portion of Jalandhari of
silver which cost 12 and was stolen from the main temple,
another jaladhari of silver were installed in 20.9.1925 along with a
brass parapet (Katra) around the shivalinga. In 1994 again brass
parapet donated by the devotee was replaced with silver. There is
no brahamasutra line found on the east surface of the shivalinga
rather in place of it, two semiround lines at the bottom are, in
such a way that one line comes within the other. This sort of line
appears natural not by the manmade. On the same side, the
depressions have occurred on the bottom and lower side. On the
47
west surface of shivalinga, depressions are noticed at the bottom
and lower side while on the upper side they are least. On the
north side, there is no depression noticed. On the south side.
whence devotees can have a view the Shivalinga from the hall,
there is no such depression noticed except a round delve on the
bottom occurred due to chipped off.
There is a tradition of sixtime worships performed in a day
inside the garbhogriha and it is called as Bhasma Arti, Datyodak,
Bhoga Arti, sandhya pooja, sandhya arti and shayana arti. These
worships the starting from early morning to night between 46
am, 7 7:45 am, 10 10:45 am, 5 5:45 pm, 7 7:45 pm and
10 10:45 pm respectively. The main ingredients offered in the
pooja are water, milk, curd, honey, ghee and sugar, liquid
perfume, a pest of sandalwood, pest of cannabis and flowers. In
the first morning pooja apart from these, the ash of dry cowdung
has sprinkled over the shivalinga at the last.
There are 37 families of Brahmins of Ujjain who are
responsible for conducting pooja in the temple in a traditionally
scheduled time and for each pooja, at least 3 to 5 Poojaris are
deployed at a time and in special occasion more are deployed.
B: MORNING WORSHIP AND MATERIAL USED IN THE WORSHIP
A group of Brahmins attends the Mahakal pooja at morning
hour wherein at least five Brahmins take part. Morning worship
of Lord Mahakal is very interesting. It starts at around 4 am daily
and for that devotees remains in the queue since early midnight
so that they could have a view of the god and pour a lota of water
over the Shivalinga.
At the beginning every devotee pours water over Shivalinga
one by one and then worship starts with chanting of mantras
and offering of doodh (milk), shakkor (sugar), dahi (curd), shahad
(honey), panchamrita (mixture of five], gangajal and at last itra
(liquid perfume) over the linga (liquid perfume) over the linga.
After offering of all these stuff, shivalinga is cleaned by the water
then process of decoration begins followed by putting handful
pile of cooked rice on the top of the shivalinga then three
garlands one by one around the pile, preparing of forehead by
using pest of sandalwood, then pundarika, eyes, nose, lips etc.
The eyes are decorated by putting silver pieces and lips by
Vermilion, thus a face of Shiva is prepared towards the south
side of linga whence it can be viewed by devotees seating at the
48
south side hall. At least five Brahmins attend the pooja of them
one does this ornamentation, other perform other activities like
giving articles (samagri) to him, cleaning and bringing other parts
of the sanctum and providing other articles of worship (pooja
samagris) into the garbhagriha. After completing decoration, a
garment is worn over the Shivalinga in such a way that top and
sides the while face remains open. Then kundala, kapalamala
made of silver are worn followed by a chhatra, over the Shivalinga,
made of same metal. After that worship begins by offering dhoop
with a dhoopadan made of silver. After that Shivalinga is covered
by a garment and one of the Pujari made an announcement that
lady devotee may avoid to see the Shivalinga now, because they
were going to pour dry ash of cow dung (bhasma) over the
Shivalinga. , is a kind of indication of digamber (nude) form of
Shiva that's why lady devotees are called to veil. By doing so
poojari takes a bale of ash in his right hand and sprinkles over
the Shivalinga till it is finished and for that, it takes around five to
seven minutes while the whole process of pooja takes more than
one and half hour to finish.
At last, Shivalinga is cleared from the articles offered over
the linga and ornamentation and one by one Arti added earlier for
decoration is removed and it is cleaned again by the plain water.
Thereafter group of ladies of the city enter the garbhagriha to offer
milk over the lingo followed by other devotes, thus the order of
coming devotees and pouring milk over the redware begins whole
day except the pooja hours as referred above. In the pooja of 5
pm, the decoration of the lingo is again done almost in the same
pattern as stated above while in the rest four pooja at 7 am, 10
am, 7 pm and 10 pm decoration is not done.
As per the information provided by the temple poojari the
offering material used in the morning pooja includes; milk (5 litre)
curd (1 kg), ghee (1 kg), honey (1 kg), sugar (250 grams),
sandalwood paste (100 grams), cannabis (100 grams), liquid
perfume, abeer (100 gram), gulaal (100 grams), kanku (100
grams), rice (250 grams), garland (5 nos), flowers (1 kg), vilvapatra
(1008 nos), gangajal, gulabjal, juice of fruits (5 kg), coconut water
(1 litre) and juice of sugarcane (litre). For the decoration of lingo
cannabis (1 kg), cashew nut (250 gram), almond (250 grams),
pistachios (250 grams) and chooroli (250 grams).
1.8 MAINTENANCE AND RESTORATION OF TEMPLE PREMISE
AND ACTIVITIES
49
As stated above, in the temple premise has numbers of
small and large temples corresponding to more or less in
architecture to each other. But except main temple and walls of
Briddhakaleshwar and Anadikalpeshwar temples, rest of the
shrines are reflected as modern temples due to modification,
crappy restoration and paintings are done in white, cream and
red colours.
At the interior of the main temple, silver cladding in the
garbhagriha, tiles in the walls of the passage leading to garbhagriha,
tiles in the walls of cells and niches, tiles on the first and second
floors have been provided. In the Anadikalpeshwar temple, the
roof of the sabhamandapa and mandapa are altered. In the
Anadikalpeshwar temple, the roof and walls of the mandapa have
been replaced with new one. In the Balavijay Hanuman temple
whole the interior and exterior walls and roof of the temple has
been replaced with modern vitrified tiles and painting and pillars,
arches of outer courtyard and ceilings with oil paintings. The
floor of the premise is constructed in red flog stones and level of
the floor of each temple arranged with steps. Besides that, some
new constructions have been also constructed between the old
temples and some are still going on in the premise.
Apart from the daily worship in the temple, there are other
activities being carried out and looked after by the Mahakaleshwar
Temple Management Committee. These activities are:
A: Daily cleaning of the temple premise, gaushala, Vedic samsthan,
Vikram Kirti Mandir, rasoi of the temple and surrounding area of the
temple premise. Cleaning is done by outsourcing.
B: Rasoi is maintained by the committee wherein about 5560 staff
is engaged in cooking and serving bhog to the visitors free of cost.
The Bhog is available from morning 11:00 am to night 11: 00 pm.
C: An another Laddu Prasad unit is also being run by the
committee, which cooked laddu as a prasad and sale to the
devotees every day,
D: Temple committee runs two ambulances for giving medical
assistance to the peoples of nearby villages. One doctor and one
nurse have been also engaged to render free medical checkup and
medicines to the public.
E: One Shavavahan is kept for free carrying of dead bodies to
deliver at the cremation place for the funeral. It is a free service.
50
F: One bus is also run by the committee for carrying visitors to
show important religious places of Ujjain.
G: In the pravachan hall several programmes are organized in the
month of the Sravan month (Monday), Uma sanjhimahotsava in
Ashvin month which includes preaching by renowned kathakar,
shastriyo sangeet, and other cultural programmes like
bharatnatyamma etc. programme.
H: Temple Vedic Sansthan is established to educate students of
class VI to XlI on Vedic literature and Sanskrit. Presently about 6
teachers are educating 70 students in the Sansthan.
I: Temple committee is maintaining gaushala at Chintamani area
wherein about 100 cows are reared. The milk of the cow has been
used in the worship and other ceremonies of the temple.
CHAPTER 11
NATURAL (PHYSICO~CHEMICAL) WEATHERING OF STONE
WITH REFERENCE TO MAHAKAL JYOTIRLINGA
In this chapter, natural causes (PhysicoChemical) of weathering
of stone in the context of Jyotirlinga have been discussed in
general keeping in view the offerings (ingredients) used during the
prayers/rituals of the lingam.
Rituals including Bhasm (Ash) Aarti and Abhishekas on the
lingam starts right from the dawn of the day and continue
throughout with short intermittent breaks. A large number of
devotees visit the temple daily and offer many ingredients and
puja samagree as a part of the ritual with great religious belief
and Astha. The number of devotees increases appreciably on any
auspicious day or during festivals. These offerings due to their
physical or chemical characteristics may interact differently with
the minerals of natural stone (Ungam). This continuous
interaction, in the long run, may be responsible for appreciable
damage to the substrate (Lingam).
2.1 General Chemical Characteristics of Some of the Ingredients:
It is important and imperative to consider the Normal
Chemical Characteristics of the ingredients which are generally
offered by the devotees in order to have a better understanding of
the physicochemical or GeoChemical Interactions of these
51
products with the stone of which this jyotirlinga is carved out.
These are briefly discussed below:
Milk: The milk is a biological fluid having following gross
composition:
Srl.
No
Name
of
Cattle
Water Fat ProteinLactoseAsh
1 Buffalo84.20 6.6 3.9 5.0 0.7
2 Cow 86.30 4.9 3.4 4.0 0.7
Physico Chemical analysis of Dahi in percentage
Homemade Desi Ghee:
The chemical composition of Homemade Pure Ghee:
Small chain saturated fatty acid (SFA): 12.5% Monosaturated fatty acid
(MUFA): 19.91% Long Chain fatty acids (SFA): 73.77% Mediumchain
Fatty acid (SFA): 20.17%
Honey:
Average Composition of floral and honeydew Honey is as below :
SN. Characteristics or Floral Honey (%) Honey Dew Honey (%)
Constitution
52
fat ProteinAsh Total LactosepH Total plate Total coli
dissolve count form count
solid (cfu/ml)
(10
7
)
3.60 3.27 ± 0.68
±
15.63 ±
4.73
±0.
5.05 7.68
±0.01
2.32
±0.11
±
0.43 0.02 0.1 01 ±
0.50 0.21
Colour flavor Texture M.P. Refractive Moisture %
Index Acidity
White Pleasant Granular 29
°C
1.4530 0.4 3.0
1 Granular Tendency
Few clumps of crystals
1/8 to ¼ each layer
Few clamps of crystals
1/16 to 1/8 inch layer
2 Colour Dark half of White Light of amber
3 Moisture 17.2 16.3
4 Laevulose 38.19 31.80
5 Dextrose 31.28 26.08
6 Sucrose 1.31 0.80
7 Maltose 7.31 8.80
8 High Sugar 1.50 4.70
9 pH 3.91 4.45
10 Free acidity 22.03 49.07
1 1 Lactones 7.11 5.08
12 Total acidity 29.12 54.88
13 Ash 0.16
0.73
Sugar Products:
Average Chemical Composition of Sugar Products is:
SN Composition Average in percentage
1 Sucrose 8.18.7%
2 Reducing Sugar 36%
3 Oligosaccharides 0.06 0.6%
4
Polysaccharides
(including Gums and
Dextrans)
0.20.8%
Sandal (Chandan):
Major compositions of sandalwood powder or Oil are: Alpha Santatot
41.0 55% and Beta Santalol 41.0 55 %.
Bhang (Cannabis):
The buds and leaves of Cannabis are ground into a paste to prepare
Bhang. The Biodeterioration component is Cannabidiol and delta9
tetrahydrocannabinol.
These compounds believed to have Antifungal, Antibacterial and
Antibiotic property.
53
Abir or Abeer and Gulal:
If these products are not derived from natural flowers/herbs, may
contain synthetic dyes which are manufactured through the
chemical process most likely with nonstandard parameters and
hence the resulting colours may have toxic effects of abrasion on
sensitive objects.
Kanku (Kumkum):
It is either made from turmeric or any other local material. The
dried turmeric powder is mixed with slaked lime which turns the
rich yellow colour of the turmeric into a red colour. Modern
Kumkum (Sindoor) mainly uses Vermilion. Orangered pigment
vermilion is purified and powdered form of cinnabar or mercury
sulfide.
Fruits Juices:
On many occasions, devotees offer fruit juices of a different variety.
These fruit juices may have a different chemical composition and
pH value depending upon the nature of the fruit.
The pH value of some of the fruit juices is given below. This pH
value represents the acid or basic character of any solution.
54
S No. Seasonal Fruits (Juice) pH
1 Cheekoo 5.36
2 Plums 3.604.30
3 Apple 3.30 4.00
4 Mango 3.404.80
5 Watermelon 5.185.60
6 Pineapple 3.204.00
7 Pomegranate 2.933.20
8 Papaya 5.206.00
9 Guava 3.64.10
10 Orange 3.304.19
11 Grapes 3.003.75
12 Sugarcane 5.26.8 (Crude Juice 3A)
13 Coconut water 1.5 5.2
Bhasm / Ashes of
Cow Dung Cakes:
We have been informed that ashes of Cow Dung Cakes are being used
during the Bhasm Aarti. Good quantity of ash is generally used every
day through sprinkling using a muslin cloth. Sample has been collected
and our preliminary analysis (XRF) (courtesy: Wadio Institute of
Himalaya Geology, Dehradun) revealed that the ash collected is quite
rich in Silica Content (around 63%), Oxide of Calcium (10.75%), oxide
of Magnesium, Aluminium, Phosphorous, Potassium, Iron and traces of
oxides of Titanium and Manganese. The solubility of the Bhasma in
water is almost negligible, however, in acid, it is sparingly soluble.
Microscopic observation of the bhasmas carried out in the
laboratories of the Director (Science) Dehradun revealed the
amorphouscrystalline character of the Bhasm. This
characteristic of the Bhasm expected to have abrasive action on
the soft objects.
Burning of Oil Lamps, Dhoop or Essence Sticks:
Oil lamps, Dhoop or essence sticks use carbon/charcoal
powder mixed with some oil and aromatic compounds. When
allowed to burn, thick smoke or fumes are emitted into the air
which generally creates the biofilm of black soot on the interior
wall surface of the temple. This may be aesthetically unpleasing
but more importantly, may induce a slow process of decay in the
material on which it deposits.
Note: Above analytical data represent the chemical composition and
general characteristics of the materials as per references available and
does not speak about the actual materials except Bhasm being used
during the rituals or about any sample of those materials.
2.2. NATURAL WEATHERING OF THE SANDSTONE
Sandstones are Clastic Sedimentary Rock and are susceptible to
decay if exposed to the natural environment or manmade adverse
deteriorating conditions. (Details of the formation/genesis of such
rocks and their geological/mineralogical properties are discussed
in Part 3 of the report).
55
While examining the Mahakal Jyotirlinga, its decay/
damage/deterioration due to the use of different ingredients used
during the daily ritual, it is necessary to refer to the Natural
weathering process of Sandstone of which this Jyotirlinga is
carved out.
It is very important, but also very difficult to assess where the
natural process of weathering of stone finishes and the damage
induced in the stone due to human activity starts to exacerbate
stone decay. To recognize the mechanisms of stone decay it is
necessary to examine the natural processes of weathering.
A: Water A Major Cause of Decay of Stone:
Stone decay depends on many factors. The wet climate is one of
the slipware factors of decay and ingress of water or moisture in
the core of the stone causes dissolution of active mineral cement
(Fe and Mg Carbonates]. The decay of feldspars and the swelling of
kaolinite further weaken the subsurface, the weak zone
encouraging the detachment of the surface patina, and granular
disintegration subsequently. As a result, the most common decay
types encountered include granular disintegration, pitting,
blistering, flaking, dissolution, the formation of fissures, and crust
formation. The precise character and the effects of, depending on
the mineralogy of the rock and durability of sandstone, therefore,
depends on its framework mineral composition and secondary
cement.
The environment of High humidity is equally injurious to stone as
it keeps the stone wet for a long time and triggers the process of
solubilization of minerals. Water may contain some soluble salts
and ingress of water in the matrix of the stone may carry these
salts within the stone. Wet and dry cycle thereafter cause
efflorescence of salt on the surface and may result in peeling off
of the top layer of the stone.
B: Biological Decay or Biodeterioration of sand Stone:
The qualitative and quantitative development of Biological
Elements on stone and resulting process of Biological Decay is
strictly linked to environmental conditions as a whole.
The biological decay of stone may be induced as a result of Bio
GeoChemical interactions of the microbiological metabolites
secreted by different categories of macro and microbiological
56
species with the stone matrix. These biological species may be
Phototrophic or Nonphototrophic.
In the present context, nonphototrophic biological species have
a significant role to play as far as the decay of the Jyotirlinga is
concerned. The growth of the microorganisms of this category
and the action of their biological metabolites on the stone
depends on the following factors:
Light
Nutritive Factors
Environment to which Stone is exposed
However, macro and microbiological species may cause both
mechanical and chemical damage to the substrate but in the
present context, the chemically induced damage is important to
be considered. Some of the metabolites may be chelating and
some may have a different affinity of reaction to certain metals
elements.
As during the rituals and Abhishekas milk/ curd/ or any
other milk/ fruit product are used, the bacterial action is
generally expected on the stone if the fermented products rich in
certain species of bacteria are not washed away at regular
interval of time.
Different species of Lactobacillus bacteria are generally
present in milk products and under optimum conditions i.e.
suitable temperature and humidity, they start to multiply with
appreciable rate utilizing the lactose a good nutrient for bacteria
present in the milk products. During the process of multiplication
of the bacteria and consequent fermentation process, lactic acid
is expected to be released in different quantity in the solution. If
this fermented product is not discarded or utilized, it may result
in the formation of a byproduct of more acidic nature which may
be more injurious to the substrate. General Chemical reaction
involved in the process is given below.
C12H22O11 + H20 C6H1206 + C6H1206
Lactose Galactose Glucose
C6H1206 OH COOH
Galactose Lactic Acid
57
Other species of bacteria (Sulphur and Nitrogen) are also
expected to grow in the stagnant medium rich in cellulosic
material and carbohydrate.
The large amount of flowers, Bilva Patra and other materials
offered by the devotees to the Jyotirlinga when not removed with
a periodical interval, attract bacterial action on these materials.
This bacterial action may also be injurious to the stone including
sandstone because mild acid products released through the
metabolic activities of microorganisms may react with the metal
ions of the sandstone very easily causing disintegration of the
substrate through leaching of the cementing material.
2.3. EXAMINATION OF THE MAHAKAL JYOTIRLINGA AND
GARBHGRIHA:
The Jyotirlinga was carefully examined by the team on 7
th
September 2017 after the Bhasm Aarti in order to make an
assessment with regard to its decay due to the use of different
materials during rituals. We have also been present during the
early morning Bhasm Aarti to record the process of this great
ritual and to have information about the ingredients generally
used during the puja.
A: General Observations of the Jyotirlinga:
There is only one entrance door on the Southern side for the
devotees to enter in the Garbhgriha and there is no room for
Parikrama around the Jyotirlinga. All the devotees offer materials
for rituals and do Abhishekas on the Jyotirlinga from the Western
and Northern side of the Garbhgriha. Jyotirlinga is fixed on a
circular pedestal of silver metal. It was not possible to visualize
the bottom portion of the Lingam and its depth under the floor
surface. The dimension of the lingam above the pedestal has
already been discussed earlier. As far as general conservation
status of the Jyotirlinga is concerned, chipping of the polished
layer may be seen mostly on the eastern and western side having
caused depressions or pits. These characteristics may be seen
elsewhere also on the lingam.
The top of the Jyotirlinga appears to have good polish but on
the southern side the polish has been considerably damaged
and fine minerals of sandstone are exposed. The polish on the
top of the lingam is difficult to differentiate if it is the original
polish or has been developed and is maintained due to the
58
rubbing of the offering materials on the Lingam particularly on
the top portion during the Bhasm Aarti. A halfspherical
chipped off the mark on the stone is visible on the Southern
side and two parallel spherical marks originated from top of the
lingam moving downwards on the Eastern side.
The team has also witnessed that liters of water / Ganga jal are
offered by the devotees daily. Good quantity of milk, curd, a
small quantity of honey, ghee and other materials are also Katra
during the Bhasm Aarti including a lot of flowers and belpatra.
However, during the Abhishekas of Jyotirlinga, water/Ganga jal
is supposed to wash away the milk products and carbohydrates
but at many places especially on the bottom of the lingam, we
have observed thick accumulation of sticky, slimy fermented by
products of milk including carbohydrates. This accumulation is
expected to invite bacterial action if not, washed away regularly.
The bacterial action on the stone is, however, a slow process but
expected to cause damage to the substrate if not controlled in
time. The bacterial action on the flowers and other offering
materials may also invite fungal growth which in combination
with the bacterial action may be more harmful to the substrate.
Bhang is also offered to the Jyotirlinga during the Bhasm Aarti
but the bhang paste generally contains alkaloids and phenolic
compounds which are not expected to cause damage to the
stone. The presence of alkaloids and phenolic compounds rather
help to control biodegradation as these compounds also show
antibacterial and antifungal properties. The offering of Bhasm
and other powder offering materials are expected to have certain
chemical compounds, the rubbing of which on the lingo may
cause damage to the top layer of the stone. The offering of fruit
juices is also expected to be injurious to the stone because of their
low PH value and acidic characters.
The sealing of joints around the Jyotirlinga has been observed to
be severely damaged which may be a cause for infiltration of
offerings including water which may also lead to bacterial action
and moisture related damage to the stone.
The Marble flooring has also developed pits most likely a sign of
deterioration as a result of cumulative actions of all deteriorating
factors.
The walls of Garbhgriha are now covered with a silver metal sheet
which has lost original polish. As far as general ambiance of
Garbhagriha is concerned, the average temperature between 4 A.M
to 6 A.M has been recorded as 23.5
o
C and humidity as 78%. The
59
high percentage of the humidity is also important as retention of
moisture within the Garbhagriha creates favorable conditions for
biological activities. This also keeps the Jyotirlinga wet throughout
the day which is a negative feature as far as the decay of the
lingam is concerned.
B: Drainage Facility for the Disposal of the liquids and Solids:
The committee has observed that all the liquid and solid waste
are generally collected through drainage in a small pit outside the
Garbhagriha from where these are pumped out with the help of
the electrical motor.
It would be appropriate if this disposal system is improved so that
humidity level in the vicinity of the Garbhgriha is maintained
suitably and cleanliness may be ensured in the surrounding area.
(C) Electrical fittings in the Garbhgriha also demand major
renovation keeping in view the safety reasons and to make the
environment of the Garbhgriha more healthy and pleasing.
2.4 OTHER OBSERVATIONS:
Besides the Jyotirlinga and Garbhgriha of the Mahakal Temple,
following observations have also been made by the Committee
and the Committee feels that action may be taken for better
Conservation and Preservation of ancient structures and stone
figures. Periodical Inspections, Preventive conservation, and
Preservation may be ensured for such ancient stone figures of
religious importance.
CHAPTER III
GEOSCIENTIFIC STUDY OF LINGAM MAHAKALESHWER
UJJAIN, MP
3.1 Introduction:
In the proceeding of Court No 10 of Honorable Supreme court of
India, SLP Civil No 15459 of 2017.Upon hearing the counsel and
on the proposal submitted of Learned Additional Solicitor General
Shri Tushar Mehta, the Court made the following committee from
GSI and ASI comprise of Shri Hemraj Suryavanshi and Shri L.L.
60
Vishwakarma from GSI and Shri Madan Mohan Chouhan and Dr.
V.K. Saxena from ASI to study / survey/ analysis examine
Mahakaleshwer Jyotilingam of Ujjain (MP) and to prepare a report
containing the rate of which the deterioration in the size of
Lingam is taking place, if any, and the
measures/steps/precautions to be taken to ensure that this
deterioration/shrinkage of Lingam stops. The Committee also
study the other structures and the temple and submit what steps
are required to be taken to overall improve the entire premises
and for its preservation. The Committee makes a study and
reports inter alia as how much deterioration of Lingam has taken
place during the last threefour decades and what remedial steps
have to Sardar.
The committee Members of ASI and GSI jointly visited Ujjain on
7.9.2017 to assess the deterioration of Jyotirlingam of
Mahakaleshwer and to discuss the scope of the area of work for
the GSI and ASI team.
The GSI will carry out identification of rock type and its
composition of Jyotirlingam workout causes of deterioration in
the size of Jyotirlingam if any and suggest remedial measure. ASI
will study the archaeological and conservational aspect of the
temple premises, apart from carrying out chemical studies of
offering material to the Jyotirlingam
Geological Survey of India, Bhopal team has assessed the
limitation and accordingly methodology and instrumentation has
been selected for the detailed study of the lingam rock. Since
rock sample cannot be taken out from the Jyotirlingam for detail
studies, therefore, visual observation, as well as studies based on
nondestructive methods like remote sensing technique with an
instrument named Spectroradiometer, was adopted to identify the rock
and ascertain its composition. The instrument as well as two
expert scientists from Nagpur office were called. The Nagpur
team was reached Ujjain on 10/9/2017 and carried out his work
on 11/9/2017. The team has collected spectral signature of
lingam rock and matched with standard spectral signature
available with spectral library of CHQ of GSI, Kolkata.
Another nondestructive method by portable XRF studies of
lingam rock was felt necessary to cross checks the identification
made by the remote sensing technique. Therefore, one portable
XRF instrument along with one scientist was called from GSI,
Jaipur. Portable XRF machine was used to collect information on
12/09/2017 at 19 points in Jyotirlingam rock to study the
61
composition of Jyotirlingam rock in weathered part as well as on
nonweathered part of Lingam. Based on these studies remedial
measures ware worked out to reduce the extent of chemical
weathering.
Apart from this water sample, ash samples, samples of offering
items like bhang, cow dung were collected and analyzed to
ascertain the real cause of chemical weathering and to suggest
suitable remedial measure to improve the overall environment of
the temple premises ware suggested.
3.2 Observation and studies of Jyotirlinga:
3.2.1 Visual observation: The Shiva Lingam measuring 67 cm in
height and 47.97 cm in diameter situated over silver coated
Jaladhari of 208x127x30 cm in size. The lingam rock is pinkish
buff coloured orthoquartzite similar to quartzite of Vindhayans.
It is massive, hard and compact fine to medium grained, well
sorted arenaceous quartzite compose of quartz occasionally with
minor feldspar with the siliceous matrix. Majority of the grains
are quartz along with minor orthoclase giving light pinkish brown
shade to the lingam rock. The cementing material is siliceous with
minor ferruginous impurities.
There are traces of two bedding plane on the left side of the lingam
rock with a minor change in grain size and composition along
these plane. These bedding planes are visualized as an imprint in the
forms of a slightly depressed linear groovelike structure due to
differential weathering, but on the fresh surface exposed in pits
developed in lower part of lingam in the eastern side, these
imprint of bedding are not visible by naked eyes.
3.2.2 Studies based instrument:
(a) Spectral studies by Spectroradiometer:
On the basis of visual observation as well as studies based on
remote sensing technique with the instrument named
Spectroradiometer was adopted to identify the rock and ascertain
its composition. Two experts Geologist one from GSI Nagpur &
another from GSI Kolkata along with Spectroradiometer
Instrument have carried out studies of the lingam. The team has
collected spectral signature of lingam rock on 11/09/2017 and
62
matched these signature with the standard spectral signature of
rocks available in the library at GSI headquarter Kolkata. Total 10
no of spectral signature from a different part of the Shiva Lingam
was collected. This study also confirms that the Lingam rock is
quartzite, mainly composed of quartz, orthoclase and a minor
amount of mica in the matrix.
(b) Portable XRF studies:
Portable XRF studies of lingam rock were felt necessary to cross
check the identification made by visual observation as well as with
the remote sensing technique, therefore one Chemist from GSI
Jaipur was called to carry out a study of Lingam with Portable
XRF machine. Total 19 observation points were recorded by the
instrument on 12/09/2017 on lingam. The objective of this study
was to ascertain the approximate composition of lingam rock in
weathered part as well as on nonweathered part for confirmation
of its identification. Based on these studies remedial measures
were worked out to reduce the extent of chemical weathering. The
composition of Lingam rock worked by this instrument conform
its sedimentary nature with the presence of minerals of zirconium
and titanium in traces. Observation at 19 spots from the
instruments over the lingam rock was taken and the silica percent
ranges from 66 to 92.6% in 10 samples, out of which 7 spot
samples have more than 75% silica. It conforms that the rock is
orthoquartzite. Methodology and analytical result are enclosed as
AnnexureIII.
3.3 Water analysis by portable water analysis kit and ICPMS
Instruments:
Water analysis of the temple premises was carried out at seven
selected locations and it was found that the pH value of water
being used in the offering is high ranging from 8.4 to 8.7
Water is a universal solvent and dynamic medium which
necessitates its analysis. Ionic Product of pure water at 25°C is 1x
1O
14
.Water is composed of H
+
ion and OH
ion.
H2O H
+
+ OH
(Ionic product)
In pure water of the hydrogen ion (H
+
) and hydroxyl ion (OH
) is
equal. Hydrogen ion (H
+
) is responsible for acidity and hydroxyl
ion (OH
) is responsible for the alkalinity of medium i.e. if
hydrogen ion (H
+
) increases in the medium the acidity will increase
63
and if hydroxyl ion (OH
) concentration increases in the medium
than alkalinity will increase. The H
+
and OH
concentration is
measured in terms of pH value which is the negative logarithm of
H
+
concentration in water.
pH = Log [H
+
]
If any liquid is having pH less than 7 then it will be acidic, and if it
is more than, it will be alkaline/ basic in nature. pH 7 is
considered neutral.
Weathering of rock increases on exposure to acidic as well as, as
well as two expert scientists from Nagpur office, medium as
compared to neutral medium; due to increase in electrochemical
reaction. On exposure of high silica material to acidic medium
have no significant weathering effect but on exposure to
basic/alkaline medium weathering increases by following reaction:
SiO2 + 2KOH –> K2SiO3 + H2O
On the bacterial decomposition of any organic matter, carbon
dioxide gas (C02) releases with the rise of temperature and C02
react with water to produce carbonic acid (H2CO3)
CO2 + H2O –> H2CO3
Sansthan
Storage tank below lingam produced carbonic acid may react
with alkaline water having high pH and up to some extent
neutralization reaction may happen as:
H2C02+2KOH>K 2C02+H20+Heat
The pH of the tank is less than the water of Kotiteerth pond,
which is alkaline in nature and deleterious to the siliceous
material.
3.3.1 Ash analysis:
Three ash samples (1), from Bhasmaaarti of Jyotirlingam, (2),
cow dung used for making bhasma in mahakal temple and (3)
from Bhopal were analyzed for comparative studies.
Bhasma is being used in the bhasmaaarti range in pH from 9.07
to 10.2 in an aqueous medium having 7 pH; on the other hand,
the water of Kotiteerath pond is alkaline in nature. If alkaline
water is mix with bhosmo. , the combination will further enhance
pH of the medium and produce a more adverse effect on lingam
64
and increase rote of chemical weathering (Annexure IV c).
Use of cow ghee, milk, curd, honey etc is a regular phenomenon.
As a matter of fact pH of some of these articles might induce
deterioration but in view of the religious sentiments, the ageold
practices cannot be stopped, but the amount of the material may
be restricted in order to reduce further deterioration. The only
effect of these semisolids appears to be their pH value in general
pH value of cow milk ranges between 6.6 to 6.8, pH of curd 4.5 to
6.0, pH of coconut water (matured) will be 5.2 and honey may
range from 3.9 to 6.0 in pHs
3.4 Discussion and interpretation :
Since centuries the temple is a center of attraction to the Hindu
society. It was situated on the bank of kshipra River. The great
kshipra had changed its course in past it was flowing close to the
Mahakal temple and gradually shifted its course to the present
channel, now local people talk about guptkshipra which flows
below the kotiteerath pond and supplying water to the temple
premises since years.
3.4.1 Extent of weathering:
The lingam rock is hard and compact medium to finegrained
wellsorted orthoquartzite as seen in above photos from a
different direction. Majority of the grains are quartz along with
minor orthoclase giving light pinkish brown colour to the
Jyotirlingam rock. The cementing material is siliceous with
minor ferruginous impurities. It is hard and compact and
sustainable in the ideal natural environment. Close observation
of lingam reveals that there is the signature of chemical
weathering on the eastern and western side of the lingam.
Observation of day to puja pattern and offering of milk curd,
honey bhang etc. as well as the traditional ritual it is seen that
the effect of chemical weathering is more pronounced in the
eastern and western side of the lingam. The northern side (Front,
facing devotees) is devoid of any weathering pits. Similarly, the
back side is also least affected by the process of chemical
weathering. The causative factors for the localised development
of pits are the topic of research for our team. We have gone
through the ill side effect of offering material and the area
affected by the offering.
3.4.2: Causative factor:
65
(1) The ambiance and climatic parameter of Jyotirlinga room are
somewhat similar to a subtropical climatic condition where
alternate wet and dry spell is in practice. The offering supply's
bacteria through curd organic compound and lodging of these
compounds in pits enhance the process of attacking and
dissolving cryptocrystalline siliceous cement in the rock resulting
in loosing and removal of grains in this way the chemical
weathering is progressing.
(2) Silico is stable and inert in most of the form but the
cryptocrystalline form of silica is prone to attack by the alkaline
substance (like potassium hydroxide KOH) and will dissolve at
room temperature in alkaline solution as express in this reaction.
(reference from Google).
SiO2+2KOH=K 2Si03+H20
The formation of potassium metasilicate is the cause of chemical
weathering which is soluble in water the rate of reaction is very
slow but continuous with the passage of time.
Water quality of the Kotiteerath pond has pH value 8.4 which is
alkaline in nature, this water being offered continuously to
Lingam rock during Jalabhishek. Ash offered in the bhasmaarti
also contains alkaline compound and the pH value of ash in
aqueous media using pure water is 9.1 which is highly
deleterious to siliceous rock. During Bhashmaarti ash are poured
over the lingam and then after water of Kotiteerath are used in
jalabhishek which is reacting and producing causative factor to
enhance the chemical reaction stated above resulting in the form
of chemical weathering and removal of silica grains and
development of pits in lingam rock.
3.4.3: Weathering through ages:
Though the rate of weathering is very slow and cannot be
perceived by single observation as these pits have been spotted 60
years ago when Hon'ble first President of India. Shri Rajendra
Prasad and Hon’ble first Vice President and second President of
India, Shri Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan were spotted worshipping of
Jyotirlingam in Mahakal temple at Ujjain and the patch of Pits in
the eastern side of the Lingam has also been spotted during that
time. In a span of 60 years, these pits have increased at a slow
rate in number and size. (Photo no.58) Projecting the rate of
erosion there is no alarming situation at present but some
precautions are necessary as a remedial measure to protect the
66
lingam for posterity and manage the deterioration.
CHAPTER∙ IV
A: SUGGESTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
1.The Jyotirlingam rock has been identified as orthoquartzite
which is hard and compact and highly siliceous in nature in
which the silica content varies from 7592% analyzed by portable
XRF studies. Apart from visual observation spectral signature by
spectroradiometer were collected, matched with the standard
signature of orthoquortzite available in GSI, spectral lab.
2.The deterioration of lingam has Sandstones and increased
in last 4050 years as depicted in photos no 14 and 58; the
deterioration is continuous Sandstone can be managed with
remedial measures.
3.The water of temple premises used in Jalabhishek is highly
alkaline in nature the pH value ranges from 8.4 to 8.7 which is
reactive with the cryptocrystalline siliceous cementing material of
orthoquartzite at room temperature and causing deterioration in
Jyotirlingam.
4.The tradition of Bhasmaarti using ash of Cow dung (as per
temple pujaris) has pH value ranges from 9.07 to 10.20 in an
aqueous medium.
5.The ageold practices cannot be stopped but the amount of
material can be restricted/ minimized in order to reduce
deterioration. The quantity of offering as listed in Annexure I
contain milk, curd. into, honey, sugar, leaves, petals, and flowers,
accumulate in pits promote the growth of bacteria at room
temperature resulting in pH variation is also a cause of
deterioration.
6.Presence of major and minor oxide and trace elements of
rock enhance the electrical conductivity of the water to a high
level which can cause deposition of salt in pores/ pits and
chipping of material by chemical weathering.
7.Poor drainage sanitation and water spillage were also
spotted in the temple premises.
8.The Use of water (jal /Ganga Jal) throughout the day for
67
Abhishekas of the Jyotirlinga by the devotees should be restricted
to a minimum.
9.Use of milk and other milk products including ghee and
honey should be minimized to a small quantity and made
symbolic in nature to satisfy the religious requirement.
10.Rubbing of Jaggary / Sugar powder and other powdery
material on the Jyotirlinga may be restricted/ minimized.
11.Use of a lot of flowers / Bel Patra etc. may also be made
symbolic as the use of such huge materials keep the Jyotirlinga
wet all the time and hinders natural breathing of the stone which
is essential for the good state of the Jyotirlinga.
12.Use of metal buckets, offerings pots, and other utensils
should be replaced with wooden / Good Plastic materials in order
to avoid mechanical abrasions.
13.lf possible, entry of devotees in the Garbhgriha may be
limited by making a management plan. Devotees may be
permitted for short duration at a time to avoid the crowd in
grabhgraha. This is important as there is only single entry door
which is also used as an exit door.
14.Every effort should be made to keep the Garbhgriha dry
and clean including the passage and surroundings.
15.All the damaged area of marble floorings and sealing of
joints etc. should be repaired to avoid water percolation through
the damaged area.
16.1f possible provision may be made for air circulation in the
Garbhagriha.
17.Arrangements for disposal of waste may be improved and
should be made more effective.
18.Scientific / Chemical treatment of any stone object with
periodical inspection and preventive conservation may, however,
help to preserve the object for quite long time but in case of
Jyotirlinga it may not be appropriate to consider such treatment
68
as the treatment of the Jyotirlinga may not be acceptable to the
common people because of their great faith and religious beliefs.
Only preventive conservation methods may be helpful to keep the
Jyotirlinga in the best of its conservation state.
19.Sincere efforts should be made to preserve the originality of
the main temple and other structures of historical importance in
the premises. Modern materials should be avoided for general
maintenance.
20.The antiquarian remains of the premise including the main
temple of Mahakal can be classified mainly into four groups; a:
Some stone sculptures in loose and fixed nature assigned to 7th
8
th
century AD, b: Some sculptures of 11
th
12
th
century AD, c:
Main temple and other subsidiary shrines of 18
th
century and d:
Other remains viz wooden box, copper drum, seating benches and
some metal work etc of 19
th
20
th
century. Numbers of stone
sculptures placed in the temple premise at different places like
embed in the walls, on the floors, and in the abandoned rooms
needs to be properly maintained, documented, identified and
displayed in a proper place so that they could be preserved for
future generation and could be in use of researchers and students
of art and architecture.
21.Some unwanted restoration works have been done on the 1
st
and 2
nd
floors of the Mahakal temple by laying of modern tiles on
the floor. This sort of flooring does not match in any way with the
ambiance and old architecture of the temple. On the north and
south sides of the temple, iron scaffoldings are placed attached to
the main temple. We were told that the scaffoldings are provided
for installing iron stairs for climbing of the visitors to the temple
on the top floor to worship Chandranageshwar. On this floor, a
sculpture of Chandranageshwar with his consort is placed inside
a niche covered with a glass window and devotees or visitors
would be allowed to reach there. During our visit, we were
informed that earlier temporary arrangement was made there by
way of installation of iron stairs in the occasion of Nagapanchami
when lacs of visitors used to visit here. Providing of this sort of
installation is not only the eyesore in the ancient temple premise
but it would lead a new tradition in future and put an adverse
effect on the old temples when such a huge crowd of devotees will
reach the top floor. Therefore, it should be avoided for the safety
of the public and to maintain the ambiance of the temples.
69
22. While the campus consisting of old temples have been
reflecting with white, cream and red colours as outer walls and
shikhara of almost all the temples are painted with these colours
and flooring with tiles and red stones. Beside that some new
constructions have Abhishek the carried out. This sort of
constructions and development in an ancient heritage place
should be avoided and proper conservation should be carried out
with the help of conservators and expert of ancient architecture.
23.The significance of Mahakal temple and Ujjain is not only
for the people of Ujjain and Madhya Pradesh, rather for the people
of the whole country too, therefore keeping this thing in mind, it
is inevitably required to develop this most religious and heritage
sire with proper care and maintenance so that its cultural and
tangible fabric could not be disturbed. Presently there are
numbers of the temples inside the temple premise probably of the
same period as the Mahakal temple but these temples are
conserved in crappy manner by adding eyesore paintings on the
walls and some weird addition to the old structures. Some new
constructions are done and some other constructions are
presently going on there. Therefore, it is suggested that no new
construction may be allowed within the temple premise and
restoration and development of the old temples and structures of
the premise may be rectified and restored with the assistance of
Archaeological Conservators. Apart from the various activities as
referred above, Temple committee can create a heritage cell for
maintenance and restoration of the old temples and structures
inside the premise.
24.It is stated earlier that Ujjain is a very ancient city and
there are numbers of old structures, temples, ponds, houses,
platforms nearinfrared etc around the temple premise still in
extent, these old structures ore the valuable heritage and integral
part of temple premise, needs to be identified and restored
accordingly. If it is possible for the state government, 500 m all
around the temple premise can be preserved with old structures
and removed from the modern constructions. Wherever open
space is found, that can be landscaped and developed so that its
religious ambiance could be maintained and preserved.
B: REMEDIAL MEASURES:
1.Water quality of the temple premises may be improved;
special care should be taken to water used in Jalabhishek ritual,
70
potable water range in pH from 6.8 to 7.2 are ideal for
jalabhishek and cleaning of the Jyotirlingam.
2.Ash used in bhasmaarti ranges in pH from 9.07 to 10.2 in
aqueous media is one of the causes of deterioration in lingam,
the ritual can be minimized to symbolic in nature so that the
deterioration can be minimized. The lingam should be thoroughly
cleaned after bhasmaarti and ensured that no trace of ash
remains over it, then only Jalabhishek may be allowed.
3.The ambient temperature of the lingam room (Grabhgrah
may be 1720 degree Celsius and efforts may be made to keep
dryness in most of the time of the lingam to minimize the rate of
chemical reaction, bacterial and fungal growth.
4.Use of ghee, milk, curd, honey, etc. is a regular item of
offering since ages, therefore, cannot be stopped, but the
quantity and quality of material may be minimized in order to
minimize the deterioration.
5.Proper disposal of temple garbage may be arranged and
insured that it should not contaminate the kotiteerath pond.
Improvement in sewer line and sanitation may also be managed
to keep the premises neat and clean. An arrangement may be
made to stop draining off rain and used water into kotiteerath
pond.
6.Periodical monitoring of all these remedial measures is also
essential to check further deterioration and to maintain
garbhagriha and Jyotirlingam and to maintain its natural
ambiance.
ANNEXURE I
WORSHIP SCHEDULE AND OFFERING MATERIAL OF
JYOTIRLINGAM, MAHAKALESHWER TEMPLE, UJJAIN
TIME EVENT
04:00 AM Opening of Temple door
04:00 to 04: 15 AM
Temple cleaning followed by an offer of
Panchamrit (Milk, Curd, Ghee, Honey
and Sugar)
71
04: 15 to 04:40AM
Jalabhishek by Pilgrims (Katitirathpond
water), 15 to 20 minutes.
04:40 to 05:00 AM
Abhishek by Priest (Material list
attached).
05:00 to 05:15 AM Cleaning and Drying by dry cloths
05:15 to 05:30 AM Decoration.
05:30 to 05:35 AM
Bhasamaarti (Ash worship) by ash and
bearing ornaments.
06:00 to 6:45 AM
Again Jalabhishek by pilgrims, water
offered.
06:45 to 07:00AM
Entry closed and cleaning of the temple.
07:00 to 07:15 AM Worship of other deities
07: 15 to 07:30 AM ChandanAbhishekafter cleaning.
07:30 to 07:45 AM Aarti
07:45 to 09:45 AM
Again Jalabhishek by pilgrims (using
Ujjain Municipal Supply water)
09:45 to 10:00 AM Cleaning.
10: 00 to 10:45 AM Chandanabhishek and Bhogaarti.
10: 45 AM to 04:45 PM
MilkWater Abhishek by Pilgrims and
worship
05:00 to 05:20 PM
nearinfrared started by panchamrit
Abhishek.
05:20 to 05:45 PM Decoration by Bhang and Chandan.
05:45 to 07:00 PM Dry worship.
07:00 to 07:45 PM Evening Milk Bhog.
07:45 to 10:30 PM
Open to Public for Worship with flowers
and belpatra
10:30 to 11: 00 PM Sayan Aarti (Sleeping worship).
ANNEXURE II
SPECTROSCOPY STUDY OF JYOTIRLINGAM OF
MAHAKALESHWER TEMPLE, UJJAIN, MADHYA PRADESH
By: Prem Babu, Director and Uday Kumar Ghosh, Sr. Geologist
Spectroscopy is the study of light as a function of wavelength
that has been emitted, reflected or scattered from solid, liquid
72
or gas (Clark, 1999). Reflectance and emittance spectroscopy of
natural surfaces are sensitive to specific chemical bonds in
materials, whether solid, liquid or gas. Moreover, spectroscopy
has the advantage of being sensitive to both crystalline and
amorphous materials, unlike some diagnostic methods, like X
ray diffraction (Clark,1999). Spectroscopy's other main
advantage is that it can be used for near (e.g. in the laboratory)
to far away (e.g. to look down on the Earth, or up at other
planets) objects. Laboratory and field spectroscopic studies of
rocks/minerals/other materials help in understanding the
entire realm of variability in spectral signature of particular
rocks/minerals/other materials. Reflectance spectra have been
used for many years to obtain compositional information of the
Earth surface. Therefore, spectroscopy is being used
increasingly in geoscientific studies to detect the mineralogical
composition of rocks/minerals of earth surfaces and other
planets of the universe.
Different types of minerals absorb and scatter incident energy
in the different wavelength region. When we examine the
maxima and minima of spectral reflectance curve, minima are
caused by molecular absorption and we call these as
absorption features or absorption bands. Absorption of a
particular mineral rock depends upon its atomic structure and
chemical composition. Absorption of a particular object
depends upon the electronic and vibrational process. The
electronic processes are very sensitive invisible to near infrared
(VNIR) region whereas vibrational processes are sensitive in
shortwave infrared (SWIR) region. The VNIR region is very
important to detect ferric & ferrous iron, manganese, copper,
cobalt, chromium, nickel etc., whereas SWIR region is useful in
detection of hydroxyl bearing minerals, carbonate, phosphate,
borates, arsenates, vanadates, silicates etc, The hydroxyl (OH)
is generally bound to Mg, Feor AI. The water molecule (H20)
gives rise to overtones as seen in the reflectance spectra of H20
bearing minerals. The first stretches of OH occur at 1.4 um:
and the combination of HOH bond with the OH stretches are
found near 1.9 um. The OH group commonly occurs in
multiple crystallographic sites of a specific mineral and is
attached to metalions. Thus, a combination of metal OH plus
OH stretch occurs at 2.22.3 um and is the diagnostic of
mineralogy. Spectroscopic study of Mahakaleshwer Lingam was
carried out using highend portable field spectroradiometer to
know the compositional information of the surface of Lingam at
Ujjain. Madhya Pradesh. Spectroradiometer used in the present
study has a very good signal to noise ratio (SNR), with finer
73
spectral resolution and spectral interval suitable for detecting
the subtle absorption features characteristic of the constituent
minerals of the rock exposed on the surface under
examination. It detects the energy reflected by the surface
material. Spectra Vista Corporation (SVC HR 1024i)
spectroradiometer used in the present study has two types of
detectors one 512 element Si photodiode detector operative in
3501000 nm and two separate, In Go As photodiodes operative
in 10002500 nm.
Collection of Spectral Signature using 'SVC 1024i'
Spectroradiometer. Before taking the spectral measurement of
Mahakaleshwer Lingam the entire area was properly cleaned
and dried (using drier) to obtain maximum reflectance from the
field of view. The rest of the area was covered with dark cloth to
avoid unwanted reflectance from the surroundings.
Measurement Procedure:
The SYC HR 1024i spectroradiometer has spectral range of
3502500 nanometer (nm), with finer spectral resolution of
3.5nm @ 3501000,9.5 nm @1000 1850nm and 6.5nm @
1850 2500. The instrument was optimized properly before
taking a spectral measurement. Measurement of the radiance
of a white reflector (reference panel) is also essential before
initiating the measurement, as it helps in recording the
irradiance of the illuminator for a reflectance measurement.
The light source for illuminating (using a tungsten halogen
source lamp) the sample was kept at approximately 45° angle
and measurement was token by pointing sensor (fore optics as
well as fibre optics) vertically over the sample to make the
phase angle of 45° (phase angle corresponds to the angle
between the illumination source and measurement point) so
that the measurements which speak about the volume of
reflected energy emanated from the rock (characteristic of the
internal chemistry) are collected and it would reduce the
specular reflection from the object which is dominantly the
result of surface smoothness. The 40 optical lens was used
while taking the spectral signature of the Lingam.
The following necessary steps were taken into consideration while
making the measurements.
1.Source of the illumination is well calibrated so that there
should be minimal fluctuation in irradiance in successive
74
measurement.
2.Precautions were taken so that there is no physical
blockade of light and shadow of the person who is taking
measurements does not fall over the sample.
3.The sample should be larger in dimensions than the ground
sample diameter (GSD) of foreoptics.
4.Data was saved in personal digital assistance (PDA) and
downloaded into the computer for further analysis.
Processing of Spectral Curve:
Spectral signatures thus collected is processed using SVC HR
1024i software to remove the overlap at the junction of visible
(VIS) & near infrared (NIR) and NIR & SWIR region and remove
higher order kinks to derive the curve with characteristic "spectral
features". The spectral file format generated in the SVC 1024i
spectroradiometer instrument is saved as sig file format which
stores wavelength and full width at half maximum (FWHM) values
(spectral resolution) and other necessary information. After pre
processing the signature is exported to ENVI software for
generation of spectral library. The ENVI software retrieves the
wavelength data and FWHM value from the spectral reflectance files
and appends it to the header file created for each spectral
signature. ENVI has a spectral library builder tool to generate
new spectral library builder tool to generate a new spectral
library from a variety of spectra sources, including ASCll files,
other spectral libraries, ROI means, spectral profiles and plots.
The collected spectra are automatically resampled to an input
wavelength space using FWHM information. After feeding all the
necessary information finally, the rock library is generated by
using lab spectra.
The spectral signature of Mahakaleshwer lingam, Ujjain, MP:
The spectral signature was collected at different faces of
Mahakaleshwer Lingam like near top, back, left, right, primary
bedding plane, pitted surface etc. For each location number of
measurements using foreoptics as well as fiber optics were
taken and were later averaged to get the final spectra.
Interpretation
75
The spectral signature of left and right side shows absorption at
2.19 µm indicating presence of phyllosilicate minerals (AIOH
bearing minerals) and absorption in VNIR (O.568 µm) region is
due to iron oxide stains. But the fore optic spectra show high
reflectance in NIR as compared to fiber optic spectra that is
possibly due to the presence of some organic material on the
surface and also due to the differential field of view of spectral
measurement. The combination of HOH bend & OH stretches is
found at 1.93 µm that indicate the presence of water molecule in
the sample. The additional overtone feature of OH stretches has
been noticed at 1.4 µm.
The spectra of near top & back side show absorption at
2.19 µm that indicate the presence of phyllosilicate minerals (AI
OH bearing minerals) and absorption in VNIR (O.543 µm) region
is due to iron oxide stains. But the fore optic spectra show high
reflectance in NIR as compared to fiber optic spectra that are
again due to the presence of some organic material in the surface and
also due to the differential field of view of spectral measurement.
The combination of HOH bend & OH stretches is found at 1.93 µm that
indicate the presence of water molecule in the sample. The additional
overtone feature of OH stretches has been noticed at 1.4 µm.
The fiber optic spectra of all pitted surface show absorption at
2.19 µm indicate the presence of phyllosilicate minerals (AIOH
bearing minerals, and absorption in VNIR region is due to iron
oxide stains. The variation of absorption depth at VNIR has been
noticed which varies from 0.565 to 0.731 µm and this is due to
the presence of differential iron oxide stains at the different pitted
surface. The combination of HOH bend & OHˉ stretches is
found at 1.93 µm that indicate the presence of water molecule in
the sample. The additional overtone feature of OHˉ stretches has
been noticed at 1.4 µm.
From overall observation, it is found that most of the diagnostic
absorption occurs at 2.19 µm and absorption in VNIR region is
possibly due to differential iron oxide staining at different
surfaces. No other diagnostic absorption due to other alteration
mineral was noticed.
All the spectral signatures were analysed with existing rock
library of GSI as well as USGS mineral spectra and it the that the
spectral signatures fit well with quartzite based on its absorption
features in SWIR region.
Continuum removed (continuum or background is the overall
76
albedo of the reflectance curve) spectra of Lingam & USGS
phyllosilicate mineral shows diagnostic spectral absorption at
2.19 µm which confirms the presence of phyllosilicate mineral.
Summary: Based on the spectroscopic study of the lingam of
Mahakaleshwer temple Ujjain, MP, it can be summarised that
the spectral signatures of the surface of lingam show presence
of quartz with a minor amount of phyllosilicates. Beside
presence of some organic matter at a few locations could also
be noticed.
References: Clark, R.N. 1999; Spectroscopy of Rocks and
Minerals, and Principles of spectroscopy(pp3),
http://speclab.cr.usgs.gov .
XRF STUDY OF JYOTIRLlNGAM OF MAHAKALESHWER
TEMPLE, UJJAIN
The XRF study of the Jyotirlingam of Mahakaleshwar temple,
Ujjain was carried out using portable SkyrayExplorer 5000 ED
XRF instrument.
ED (Energy Dispersive) Xray spectrometer is based on the
principle of Xray fluorescence (XRF) which is a nondestructive
technique. The atoms, illuminated by highenergy Xray, emit X
ray spectra with certain characteristics, the wavelength of which is
related to the atomic number of an element. Therefore, by
determining the wavelength, we find the composition of the
sample and start the qualitative analysis; by measuring the line
intensity and comparing with a known standard, we get to know
about the content of the element and start the quantitative
analysis. The Explorer5OOO instrument consists of mainly three
systems: excitation, optics and detector system. The excitation
system, including a miniature Xray source, filter, and collimator,
is used to generate Xrays. Xrays irradiating to the sample
produce Xray fluorescence with sample characteristics,
transforming into voltage signals through the detector, the signal,
after being amplified and data acquisition, is sent for computer
processing to get the required test data. The detection system
mainly includes i) AMP and digital multichannel data acquisition
system, ii) Embedded PDA Equipped with dedicated Xray
fluorescence analytical software. The detection limit is down to
ppm level.
77
The XRF study of the lingam was carried out by directly placing the
nosepiece carefully on the Lingam surface by holding the
instrument in hand. The surface of the lingam was more or less
rough at all points scanned using the is. On each side of the
lingam, we started to analyze from the bottom position to the top
position. The total scanning time for each point was 60 seconds.
For qualitative analysis of the elements in the sample, whether it is
a natural one or in a strange shape, this instrument can be directly
used for a test. But for accurate quantitative analysis, we need to
do some sample processing. There is some inherent limitation
which may lead to measurement error; rough surface,
inhomogeneity in composition etc.
APPROXIMATE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF LINGAM ROCK BY
PORTABLE XRF INSTRUMENT
FRONT FACING NORTH BACK FACING NORTH
SPEC
NAME
LING
AM-4
LINGAM
– 3
LINGAM
– 2
LINGAM
– 1
BOTTOM
LINGAM
– 6
(CEMENT
ING
PORTION
OF THE
BASE)
LING
AM –
BAC
K5
LINGAM
– BACK4
(TOP
MOST)
LINGAM
– BACK3
LING
AM
BACK
2
LINGA
M
BACK1
(BOTT
OM
MOST)
Mg O
(%)
0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.2208 0.00000.0000
5.87686.1319 0.0000 0.7162 5.3121 8.083
1
6.3068 5.7163 11.731
9
3.4060
SiO 2
(%)
92.627
9
89.454337.148013.384616.7793 88.73
00
74.774174.621781.186
2
16.0813
P (%)0.56680.7992 0.5796 0.4026 0.8395 0.335
8
0.4442 0.3337 0.34350.2922
As (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Se (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Rb (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Sr (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Y (%)0.00200.0025 0.0014 0.0014 0.0000 0.001
7
0.0010 0.0008 0.00100.0000
Zr (%)0.01090.0328 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.009
5
0.0252 0.0142 0.00000.0000
Nb (%)0.01910.0195 0.0080 0.0100 0.0104 0.018
6
0.0119 0.0144 0.01380.0096
Mo
(%)
0.08890.0903 0.0427 0.0481 0.0202 0.085
6
0.0669 0.0599 0.08140.0281
Pd (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Ad (%)0.01730.0178 0.0164 0.0165 0.0101 0.017
4
0.0170 0.0175 0.01740.0155
Cd (%)0.02340.0513 0.0427 0.0485 0.0000 0.0610.0305 0.0337 0.05680.0120
78
3
Sn (%)0.10470.1021 0.1033 0.1033 0.1021 0.102
8
0.1029 0.1031 0.10270.1036
Sb (%)0.00000.0080 0.0016 0.0000 0.0072 0.011
1
0.0000 0.0046 0.00420.0000
Ba (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Hf (%)0.00020.0001 0.0001 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0003
Ta (%)0.00000.0000 0.0016 0.0018 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
W (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Au
(PPm)
0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
P2O3
(%)
1.29821.8303 1.3275 0.9220 1.9228 0.769
0
1.0173 0.7643 0.78680.6691
S (%)0.00000.0211 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.2173 0.0905 0.05210.0000
SO4
(%)
0.00000.0634 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.6519 0.2714 0.15630.0000
K (%)0.11040.5955 0.3539 0.4735 0.4665 0.839
5
0.6304 0.3445 0.22750.3164
K2O
(%)
0.13330.7190 0.4273 0.5717 0.5632 1.013
6
0.7611 0.4160 0.27470.3821
Ca (%)0.47312.5745 1.5076 1.1806 6.1020 1.551
6
1.7748 1.5767 1.51070.1713
CaO
(%)
0.54412.9606 1.7337 1.3577 7.0172 1.784
3
2.0410 1.8132 0.1970
Ti (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
TiO
(%)
0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
V (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Cr (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Mn
(%)
0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0009 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Fe (%)0.07540.0991 0.0421 0.0274 0.0496 0.152
2
0.1598 0.1452 0.13130.0277
Fe2 O3
(%)
0.10770.1415 0.0602 0.0392 0.0709 0.217
4
0.2283 0.2074 0.18750.0396
Co (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Ni (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Cu (%)0.00310.0000 0.0017 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0070 0.0159 0.01010.0000
Zn (%)0.00000.0000 0.0229 0.0638 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0071 0.09730.0000
Hg (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Pb (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0711 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0011 0.00410.0000
Bi (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
79
0
Peak 1653.
0000
1653.
0000
1647.
0000
1649.
0000
1655.
0000
1655.
0000
1652.
0000
1651.
0000
1649.
0000
1645.
0000
Cps 17391.
0000
18507.
0000
15614.
0000
15688.
0000
12188.
0000
1775
4.
0000
16378.
0000
15787.
0000
16737.
0000
13791.
0000
Count52249
6.
0000
555942.
0000
468960.
0000
471219.
0000
366273.
0000
5332
49.
0000
491980.
0000
474277.
0000
50261
4.
0000
414329.
0000
APPROXIMATE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF LINGAM ROCK BY
PORTABLE XRF INSTRUMENT
LEFT FACING WEST RIGHT FACING EAST
SPEC
NAM
E
LINGAM
- LEFT 5
(TOP
MOST)
LINGA
M – 4
LINGA
M – 2
LINGA
M – 1
BOTTO
M
LINGA
M –
RIGHT5
(TOP
MOST)
LINGA
M –
RIGHT6
LINGA
M –
RIGHT4
LINGA
M –
RIGHT2
LINGAM
-RIGHT1
(BOTTO
M MOST)
Mg O
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00003.77270.00000.00000.00000.0000
0.0000 3.46127.51091.96633.34071.90811.44157.20042.7364
SiO 2
(%)
43.560768.992377.250445.910668.134343.969744.846266.240616.6197
P (%)0.3531 0.81930.74400.72900.20990.68190.39620.60410.5817
P2O
3%
0.8087 1.87661.70391.66970.48081.56170.90741.38361.3322
S (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
SO4
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
K (%)0.2790 0.98320.64340.85250.45241.21420.05890.92660.2368
K2O
(%)
0.3368 1.18720.77691.02940.54621.46600.07111.11880.2860
Ca
(%)
0.7907 1.13990.14930.00000.21150.40310.56220.25490.1753
CaO
(%)
0.9093 0.16080.17170.00000.21150.40310.56220.25490.1753
Ti (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00830.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
TiO2
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.01390.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
V (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Cr (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Mn
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Fe (%)0.0396 0.05970.02440.07400.06220.08220.02670.05830.0299
Fe2
O3(%)
0.0566 0.08520.03490.10570.08880.11750.03810.08330.0427
Co(%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Ni (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Cu
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Zn
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
As 0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
80
(%)
Se (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Rb
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Sr (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Y (%) 0.0000 0.00200.00000.00230.00090.00270.00000.00130.0000
Zr (%)0.0000 0.02310.00020.03170.00000.01240.00000.00400.0001
Nb
(%)
0.0136 0.01450.01210.01500.01130.01440.01250.01390.0073
Mo
(%)
0.0468 0.07330.03820.08200.03900.06510.03900.08180.0361
Pd
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Ag
(%)
0.0155 0.01690.01470.01710.01620.01730.01550.01680.0144
Cd
(%)
0.0160 0.04150.02040.01340.04740.04710.01250.00000.0091
Sn
(%)
0.1033 0.10100.10240.10210.10270.10410.10320.10360.1024
Sb
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.02430.01360.00760.0000
Ba
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Hf
(%)
0.0000 0.00070.00000.00030.00000.00040.00010.00030.0003
Ta (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
W (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Au
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Hg
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Pb
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Bi (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Peak1657.
0000
1650.
0000
1651.
0000
1644.
0000
1653.
0000
1655.
0000
1652.
0000
1650.
0000
1650.
0000
Cps 14256.
0000
16559.
0000
13441.
0000
17087.
0000
15057.
0000
17596.
0000
13714.
0000
16334.
0000
13452.
0000
Count428321.
0000
497363.
0000
403741.
0000
513179.
0000
452296.
0000
528369.
0000
411934.
0000
490609.
0000
404073.
0000
CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF WATER SAMPLES FROM
MAHAKALESHWAR TEMPLE PREMISES, UJJAIN
S.
N
o.
Ref.
No
Sampl
e
locati
on/
time
pHTempCon
d. at
25*
C
µs/
cm
TDSSAL
INI
TY
CO
3
HCO
3
Total
hardnes
s
CaMgClN
a
KNo3PO
4
SO
4
Unit (*C) ppmSPUppmppm ppm pp
m
ppmpp
m
pp
m
pp
m
ppmpp
m
pp
m
81
1UJT/0
1/w/2
017
Pot
above
linga
m @
5.15
PM
7.7828.528705220.46NIL274.5320 7615.617067116 0254
2UJT/0
2/w/2
017
Pot
below
linga
m @
5.15
PM
8.2027.48864518046Nil317 330 7614.41257011120350
3UJT/0
3/w/2
017
Kotite
erth@
1.45
PM
8.4129.88173
6
10410.9566353.8500 6839.620512
0
12
8
1400.773
4UJT/0
4/w/2
017
Rudra
sagar
@
5.00
PM
8.7029.288495090.4518244 270 4020.415010
3
1905424
5UJT/0
5/w/2
017
Shipr
a
River
@
8.45
PM
8.3229.059205330.496 292.8340 8415.6135731119448
6UJT/1
A/M
W/17
Lalad
hariw
ater@
3.45
PM
7.628.06173
9
10430.96NILNIL 920 36
0
2.428514
0
21
9
18016194
7UJT/2
A/M
W/17
Nirma
lya @
3.45
PM
6.228.71134
9
8090.73NILNIL 660 20
0
19.220092747514101
ISO
10500
standa
rd
value
6.5- 8.5
500 200 300 753025020
0
(
W
H
O)
50 200
TRACE ELEMENT ANALYSIS IN WATER SAMPLES
FROM MAHAKALESHWER TEMPLE, PREMISE
All value in ppb
Sample
Name
19997-I 19997-2 19997-319997-419997-5 19997-6 19997-7
Ref NoUJT/03/W/2
017
UJT/1A/WM/20
017
UJT/1B/
WM/201
7
UJT/4/
W/2017
UJT/01/W/
2017
UJT/2/W/2
017
UJT/05/W/
2017
Locatio
n
KotiTirath
Pond
MahakalJal
adhari base
Tank-
2,Offere
RudraSa
gar Lake
Municipal
Water
Jaladhari
water after
Shipra
River,
82
d Water before
offering
jalavishekRamghat
Be <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Sc 2.34 1.19 1.17 <0.7 <0.71 0.70 0.7
V 90.29 13.07 <5 10.17 11.53 11.18 11.26
Cr <4 23.43 26.31 <4 <4 <4 <4
Mn <0.5 90.75 237.162.26 268.51 269.42 37.07
Fe 519.39 1991.71 1448.52164.02299.64 265.58 259..34
Co 0.12 0.74 0.72 0.34 0.64 0.63 0.06
Ni <0.5 5.75 2.90 <0.5 <.0.5 <.0.5 0.0<
Cu 1.23 13.91 <0.5 <0.5 17.56 10.55 <0.5
Zn <0.2 812.03 219.970.2 16.40 0.69 <0.2
Ga <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
As 12.98 5.96 2.93 4.78 2.69 2.66 2.64
Se <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100
Rb 13.47 202.15 65.19 3.48 6.43 6.47 6.21
Sr 968.51 574.94 432.10253.36369.56 376.06 405.15
Y <0.1 0.11 0.04 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01
Cd <0.01 0.10 0.06 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01
Cs 0.08 0.59 0.19 <0.2 <0.2 0.02 0.02
Ba 36.11 73.69 83.91 25.74 51.77 51.51 55.32
La <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03
Ce <0.04 0.40 0.13 <0.04 <0.04 <0.04 <0.04
Pr <0.005 0.05 0.03 <0.005<0.005 <0.005 <0.005
Nd <0.03 0.22 0.11 0.01 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03
Sm <0.03 0.05 0.04 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03
Eu <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03
Gd <0.02 0.05 0.03 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02
Tb <0.002 0.01 <0.002<0.002<0.002 <0.002 <0.002
Dy 0.008 0.05 0.03 <0.008<0.008 <0.008 <0.008
Ho 0.003 0.01 0.01 <0.003<0.003 <0.003 <0.003
Er <0.005 <0.005 <0.005<0.005<0.005 <0.005 <0.005
Tm <0.003 <0.003 <0.003<0.003<0.003 <0.003 <0.003
Yb <0.006 0.02 0.01 <0.006<0.006 <0.006 <0.006
Lu <0.003 <0.003 <0.003<0.003<0.003 <0.003 <0.003
Pb <0.05 6..03 2.61 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5
Bi 0.18 0.07 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 0.31
Th <01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01
U 1.27 <0.02 <0.2 <0.2 0.62 0.64 0.76
Ti 6.97 28.15 14.12 7.61 5.77 5.73 5.12
Ge <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1
Zr <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05
Nb <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.01 <0.1
Mo 10.36 5.23 1.38 1.37 1.54 2,21 2.06
W <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5
Re 0.01 0.01 0.01 <0.002<0.002 0.01 0.01
Hg <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1
83
Hg sample analysed by P.R. Nimje Chemist Chemical Division Central
Region Geological Survey of India Nagpur Lab on 15.9.2017 and other
samples are analysed by M.S. Dahat, Sr. Chemist, P. Vamshi Krishna,
Asst. Chemist under the supervision of Smt. Shobha Rani Suptd
Chemist on 19.9.2017 at Chemical Division Southern Region, GSI
Hyderabad Lab.
CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF BHASMA OF LINGAM AND ASH SAMPLES
FROM MAHAKALESHWER TEMPLE
As
aforesaid report was furnished on 13.10.2017, thereafter suggestions
and objections were invited.
RESPONSE OF THE TEMPLE COMMITTEE TO REPORT OF EXPERT
FROM ASI/ GSI :
24.Response to the report has been filed by the Temple Committee
on 13.10.2017. The same is extracted hereunder:
“RESPONSE OF THE RESPONDENT NO.1/ MANDIR
SAMITI TO THE REPORT ON THE STUDY/ SUR
VEY/ANALYSIS/ EXAMINATION OF MAHAKALESH
WAR JYOTIRLINGAM OF UJJAIN (M.P.0 DATED
02.10.2017 CONDUCTED BY THE COMMITTEE
CONSTITUTED BY THIS HON’BLE COURT.
It is submitted that this Hon’ble Court vide order
dated 25.08.2017 constituted an Expert Committee
consisting of two officers of Archaeological Survey of
India and two officers of Geological Survey of India.
84
S.NO Ref. No. pH SiO2% Cao%P% P2O5%
1 Ash (Bhasham) from the
Lingam mix in standard water
media (7 pH)
9.0742.0511.2010.0823.0
2 Ash from cow dung mix in
standard water media (7pH)
Ujjain Market
9.6651.7512.324.229.67
3 Ash from cow dung mix in
standard water media (7 pH)
Bhopal Market
10.246.317.203.227.37
This Hon‘ble Court directed the Committee so consti
tuted to study/survey/analyse/examine Ma
hakaleshwar Jyotirlingam of Ujjain (M.P.) and prepare
a report containing the rate at which the deterioration
in the size of Lingam is taking place, if any, and mea
sures/ steps/ precautions to be taken to ensure that
this deterioration/ shrinkage of the Lingam stops. Let
the Committee also study the other structures and
also the temple and submit wheat steps are required
to be taken to overall improve the entire premises and
for its preservation.
Further, the Committee was also directed to make a
study and report inter alia as how much deterioration
of Lingam has taken place during the last threefour
decades and what remedial steps have to be taken.
In compliance with the same, the Committee consti
tuted by this Hon'ble Court has submitted a report
dated 02.10.2017 on 03.10.2017.
This Hon’ble Court vide order dated 03.10.2017 al
lowed the Answering Respondent to file their sugges
tions/objections with respect to the Report.
The Answering Respondent is submitting its point
wise response to the suggestions, recommendations
and remedial measures made by the Committee con
stituted by this Hon'ble Court vide Annexure R1.
In view of the foregoing is the most respectfully
prayed that this Hon'ble Court may be pleased to
pass appropriate order as deem fit and proper and
thus render Justice. The Answering Respondent un
dertakes to comply with all the directions, this
Hon'ble Court may render in the interest of protection
of the Idol.
S.
No
.
SUGGESTIONS,
RECOMMENDATION
S AND REMEDIAL
MEASURES MADE
BY THE EXPERT
COMMITTEE
RESPONSE OF THE
MANDIR SAMITI TO
THE SUGGESTIONS,
RECOMMENDATION
S AND REMEDIAL
MEASURES MADE
85
CONSTITUTED BY
THIS HON’BLE
COURT
BY THE COMMITTEE
CONSTITUTED BY
THIS HON’BLE
COURT
1.The Jyotirlingam rock
has been identified as
orthoquartzite which
is hard and compact
and highly siliceous in
nature in which the
silica content caries
from 7592% analyzed
by portable XRF
studies. Apart from
visual observation
spectral signature by
spectroradiometer
were collected,
matched with the
standard signature of
orthoquartzite
available in GSI,
spectral lab.
Agree with the
observation.
2.The deterioration of
lingam has been
noticed and increased
in last 4050 years as
depicted in photos no
14 and 58; the
deterioration is
continuous in nature
can be managed with
remedial measures.
That the report is
based on photographs
taken in the year viz:
photo No.1 to 8. The
Mandir Samiti is
ready and willing to
take all necessary
remedial measures as
recommended by the
expert committee
constituted by this
Hon'ble Court to
conserve the lingam
namely; minimizing
and regulating the
water, flowers, and
offerings immediately.
3.The water of temple
premises used in
The Mandir Samiti
shall install an R.O.
86
Jalabhishek is highly
alkaline in nature the
pH value ranges from
8.4 to 8.7 which is
reactive with the
cryptocrystalline
siliceous cementing
material of
orthoquartzite at room
temperature and
causing deterioration
in Jyotirlingam.
plant to maintain the
pH value of the water
at around 7. The
devotees shall be
allowed to use on 500
ml of water in a
copper vessel only.
4.The tradition of
Bhasmaarti using ash
of cow dung (as per
temple pujaris) has
pH value ranges from
9.07 to 10.20 in
aqueous medium.
The Mandir Samiti
submits that before
pouring of ash over
the Lingam the
Committee is ready to
cover the Lingam with
a cotton cloth and
after pouring of ash
idol would be
completely cleaned by
superfine cotton cloth.
5.The ageold practices
cannot be stopped but
the amount of
material can be
restricted/ minimized
in order to reduce
deterioration. The
quantity of offering as
listed in Annexure I
contain milk, curd,
ghee, honey, sugar,
leaves, petals, and
flowers, accumulate in
pits promote the
growth of bacteria at
room temperature in
pH variation is also a
cause of deterioration.
Use of ghee, milk,
curd, honey etc. shall
be restricted to not
more than 1.25 litres
per devotee. Further,
this material shall be
of ISI standard and a
random check of these
puja materials shall
be insured by the
Committee.
6.Presence of major andAfter Jalabhishek by
87
minor oxide and trace
elements of rock
enhance the electrical
conductivity of the
water to a high level
which can cause
deposition of salt in
pores/ pits and
chipping of material
by chemical
weathering.
the Lingam which
concluded by 5 p.m.
every day. The
Lingam shall be
properly cleaned and
dried to minimize the
water content and
thereafter only dry
pooja shall be
permitted every day.
7 Poor drainage
sanitation and water
spillage were also
spotted in the temple
premises.
The Mandir Samiti
submits that the
process of expansion
of drainage system is
under the process and
shall be completed at
the earliest.
8 The use of water
(jal/Gangajal)
throughout the day for
Abhishekas of the
Jyotirlinga by the
devotees should be
restricted to a
minimum.
The Mandir Samiti
shall install an R.O.
Plant to maintain the
pH value of the water
at around 7. The
devotees shall be
allowed to use only
500 ml of water in a
copper vessel only.
9 Use of milk and other
milk products ghee
and honey should be
minimized to a small
quantity and made
symbolic in nature to
satisfy the religious
requirement.
Use of ghee, milk,
curd, honey etc. shall
be restricted to not
more than 1.25 litres
per devotee. Further,
these materials shall
be of ISI standard and
a random check of
these pooja materials
shall be insured and
used.
10Rubbing of
Jaggary/Sugar
powder and other
powdery on the
Jyotirlinga may be
Rubbing of Sugar
powder shall be
banned.
88
restricted/minimized.
11Use of lost of
flowers/Bel Patra etc.
may also be made
symbolic as the use of
such huge materials
keep the Jyotirlinga
wet all the time and
hinders natural
breathing of the stone
which is essential for
the good state of the
Jyotirlinga.
Dryers and fans will
be used to avoid
moisture. Belpatra
and flowers are used
on the upper part of
shivling and do not at
all hinder natural
breathing of the stone.
12Use of metal buckets,
offerings posts, and
other utensils should
be replaced with
wooden/Good Plastic
materials in order to
avoid mechanical
abrasions.
There are no
mechanical abrasions
since metallic utensils
used for jalabhishek
do not touch or abrase
the jyotirlinga.
13If possible, entry of
devotees in the
Grabhgriha may be
limited by making a
management plan.
Devotees may be
permitted for short
duration at a time to
avoid the crowd in
grabhgraha. This is
important as there is
long single entry door
which is also used as
an exit door.
Offering by devotees
cannot be avoided as
it relates to the
religious faith of the
devotees. However, a
management plan is
already made and
implemented wherein
only limited devotees
are permitted at a
time.
14.Every effort should be
made to keep the
Garbhgriha dry and
clean including the
passage and
To maintain the
ambient temperature
of the lingam room
(Grabhgarh) at 1720
degree Celsius, more
89
surroundings air conditioners shall
be installed. Further,
all efforts shall be
made to keep the
Grabhagarh and its
surroundings dry and
clean.
15.All the damaged area
of marble floorings
and sealing of joints
etc. should be
repaired to avoid
water percolation
through the damaged
area.
Accepted
16.If possible provision
may be made for air
circulation in the
Garbhyagriha
Accepted
17.Arrangements for
disposal of waste
may be improved and
should be made more
effective.
Accepted. It is
submitted that Shri
Mahakaleshwar
temple is ranked in
top 10 most clean
Iconic places by
Government of India
in Swwach Bharat
Abhiyan.
18.Scientific/Chemical
treatment of any stone
object with periodical
inspection and
preventive
conservation may,
however, help to
preserve the object for
quite long time but in
case of Jyotirlinga it
may not be
appropriate to
consider such
treatment as the
Accepted
90
treatment of the
Jyotirlinga may be
acceptable to the
common people
because of their the
faith and religious
beliefs. Only
preventive
conservation methods
may be helpful to
keep the Jyotirlinga in
the best of its
conservation state.
19.Sincere efforts should
be made to preserve
the originality of the
main temple and other
structures of historical
importance in the
premises. Modern
materials should be
avoided for general
maintenance.
Offering by devotees
cannot be avoided as
it relates to the
religious faith of the
devotees. However, a
management plan is
already made
wherein only limited
devotees are
permitted at a time.
Crowd management
and lives of devotees
will be of utmost
priority forth temple
committee.
20.The antiquarian
remains of the
premise including
main temple of
Mahakal can be
classified mainly into
four groups; a: some
stone sculptures in
loose and fixed nature
assigned to 7th 8th
century AD, b: some
sculptures of 11th
12th century AD, c:
Main temple and other
Accepted.
91
subsidiary shrines of
18th century and d:
Other remains viz.
wooden box, copper
drum, seating
benches and some
metal work etc of 19th
20th century.
Numbers of stone
sculptures placed in
the temple premises
at different placed like
embed in the walls,
on the floors, and in
the abandoned rooms
needs to the properly
maintained,
documented,
identified and
displayed in a proper
place so that they
could be preserved for
future generation and
could be in use of
researchers and
students of art and
architecture.
21.Some unwanted
restoration works
have been done on the
1st and 2nd floors of
the Mahakal temple
by laying of modern
tiles on the floor. This
sort of flooring does
not match in any way
with the ambience
and old architecture of
the temple. On the
north and south sides
of the temple, iron
scaffoldings are
placed attached to the
The Mandir Samiti
submits that the
constructions work
being carried out for
best and convenient
passage for devotees.
Necessary and
precautionary works
will be done as lakhs
of devotees throng the
temple during
Nagpanchmi.
92
main temple. We were
told that the
scaffoldings are
provided for installing
iron stairs for climbing
of the visitors to the
temple on the top floor
to worship
Chandranageshwar.
On this floor, a
sculpture of
Chandranageshwar
with his consort is
placed inside a niche
covered with a glass
window and devotees
or visitors would be
allowed to reach
there. During our visit,
we were informed
that earlier temporary
arrangement was
made there by way of
installation of iron
stairs in the occasion
of nagapanchami
when lacs of visitors
used to visit here.
Providing of this sort
of installation is not
only the eyesore in
the ancient temple
premise but it would
lead a new tradition
in future and put an
adverse effect on the
old temples when
such a huge crowd of
devotees will reach
Abhishek the top floor.
Therefore, it should be
avoided for the safety
of the public and to
maintain the
93
ambiance of the
temples.
22.While the campus
consisting of old
temples have been
reflecting with white,
cream and red colors
as outer walls and
shikhara of almost all
the temples are
painted with these
colors and flooring
with tiles and red
stones. Besides that,
some new
constructions have the
carried out. This sort
of constructions and
development in an
ancient heritage place
should be avoided
and proper
conservation should
be carried out with the
help of conservators
and expert of ancient
architecture.
Accepted
Mandir Samiti is
carrying out works to
restore the heritage
look of the temple.
23.The significance of
Mahakal temple and
Ujjain is not only for
the people of Ujjain
and Madhya Pradesh,
rather for the people
of the whole country
too, therefore keeping
this thing in mind, it is
inevitably required to
develop this most
religious and heritage
site with proper care
and maintenance so
that its cultural and
Accepted
Shree
Mahakaleshwar
temple management
committee has plans
to create a heritage
cell for maintenance
and restoration of the
old temple and
structures inside the
premise.
94
tangible fabric could
not be disturbed.
Presently there are
numbers of the
temples inside the
temple premise
probably of the same
period as the Mahakal
temple but these
temples are conserved
in crappy manner by
adding eyesore
paintings on the walls
and some weird
addition to the old
structures. Some new
constructions are
done and some other
constructions are
presently going on
there. Therefore, it is
suggested that no
new construction may
be allowed within the
temple premise and
restoration and
development of the old
temples and
structures of the
premise may be
rectified and restored
with the assistance of
Archaeological
Conservators. Apart
from the various
activities as referred
above, Temple
committee can create
a heritage cell for
maintenance and
restoration of the old
temples and
structures inside the
premise.
95
24.It is stated earlier that
Ujjain is a very
ancient city and there
are numbers of old
structures, temples,
ponds, houses,
platforms etc around
the temple premise
still in extant, these
old structures are the
valuable heritage and
integral part of temple
premise needs to be
identified and
restored accordingly.
If it is possible for the
state government, 500
m all around the
temple premise can be
preserved with old
structures and
removed from the
modern construction.
Wherever open space
is found, that can be
landscaped and
developed so that its
religious ambiance
could be maintained
and preserved.
Accepted
Subject to necessary
repairs and
maintenances for the
preservation of the
heritage building to be
carried out from time
to time by temple
committee.
25.On 13.10.2017, following order was passed by this Court:
“Heard learned counsel for the parties.
This Court had constituted a Committee on
25.08.2017 consisting of Shri Madan Singh Chauhan,
Regional Director (Archaeologist), ASI, Central Region,
Bhopal; (ii) Dr. V. K. Saxena, Director (Science),
(Archaeological Chemist), ASI, Science Branch,
Dehradun; (iii) Shri Hemraj Suryavanshi, Dy. Director,
General, State Unit, Madhya Pradesh, GSI, Bopal; and
96
(iv) Shri L.L. Vishwakarma, Director, Su: MP, GSI,
Bhopal. They have submitted their reports which are
exhaustive. Respondent No.1 Temple Committee has
filed its response to various proposals made by the
Expert Committee. They have filed pointwise response
contained in Annexure R1. The Temple Committee has
suggested certain remedial measures. In the
circumstances, it is appropriate to request the Temple
Committee to consider the various recommendations. It
was also stated that let the Committee take a decision
for implementation of the recommendations which are to
be accepted as it is a primary responsibility for the
Committee to manage the affairs. Let a considered firm
decision The opening regarding implementation.
We appreciate the gesture of the counsel for the
parties as it is not adversarial litigation but in order to
improve the overall situation and to protect and preserve
the Lingam of Mahakaleshwar. It was also stated that
the Committee has decided to regulate the timings etc.
and various suggestions were made during the course
of hearing. Let Committee take a decision considering
the overall interest and rise to the occasion by doing the
needful. Let the Committee consider the report of the
experts and its stand taken in the annexure R/1 filed
by them and pass appropriate resolutions as prayed by
counsel for respondent No.1.
Be listed on 27.10.2017.”
RESOLUTION DATED 26.10.2017 PASSED BY TEMPLE
COMMITTEE:
26.Pursuant to the order dated 13.10.2017, resolution has been
passed by the Committee on 26.10.2017 filed as Annexure R1 and the
same is extracted hereunder :
“Keeping in consideration the
suggestions/objections and recommendations of the
Expert Committee constituted by the Hon’ble Supreme
Court and also in compliance of the order dated
13.10.2017 passed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court, the
Temple Management Committee hereby passes the
following Resolution covering point 1 to 24 of the
97
suggestions/objections and recommendations of the
Expert Committee constituted by the Hon’ble Supreme
Court to protect and preserve the Mahakal Shivlinga :
1. That the devotees shall be permitted a fixed amount
of water measuring 500 ml in an appropriate small pot
per devotee for Jalabhishek.
2. That the water for Jalabhishek shall be taken from
the R.O. machine installed during Simhastha, 2016, for
which a connection shall be provided near the Garbh
Grih to maintain the pH value at ‘7’.
3. That at present during Bhashma Aarti, half of the
lingam is being covered with cloth but as per the
directions, in fifteen days, the whole of the Shivalingam
shall be fully covered with a dry cotton cloth during
Bhasma Aarti.
4. That for Abhishek only up to maximum 1.25liter
mil/panchamruit per devotee shall be permitted.
5. That after Jalabhishek by the lingam which is
concluded by 5 P.M. every day. The Lingam shall be
properly cleaned and dried to minimize the water
content and thereafter only dry pooja shall be permitted
every day.
6. At present captive sewerage, treatment technique is
being used for treatment and the same shall be
continued till the sewerage treatment plant is installed
for which steps are being taken which will require
minimum one year time.
7. That rubbing of sugar powder on Shivlinga has been
fully banned and instead the use of Khandsari is being
promoted.
8. That dryers and fans will be used to avoid moisture.
Bel Patra and flowers shall be used on the upper part of
shivling to avoid any obstruction in natural breathing of
stone.
98
9. That the crowd management shall be strictly followed
as done on big festivals namely Simhashtha, 2016,
Mahashivratri, Nagpanchmi and month of Shravan
where maximum crowd appears on those holidays and
weekends. During such time the committee is using
barricades for dong Darshna from outside the main
Garbhgrih and limited devotee are also permitted in the
garbhgrih at a time. Similar arrangement shall be
ensured on normal days also.
Various IT proposals have been received to use
technology for effective crowd managing strategies, e.g.
IT based queue management.
10. That all possible efforts shall be taken to maintain
an ambient temperature of the lingam room (Grabhgarh)
at 1720 degree Celsius. The Garbhgrih shall be kept
dry, neat and tidy. Further, an AUTOMATIC CLIMATE
CONTROL SYSTEM using sensors shall be fitted in
Garbhgrih to give information about temperature and
humidity which shall help in effective regulation and
monitoring of environmental factors.
11. That damaged area of marble flooring and sealing of
joints etc. shall be repaired within a period of six
months.
12. That all efforts should be made for creating of
heritage cell and for restoration/repairs and
maintenance of all items of historical importance. Steps
are being taken for the structure and role of the heritage
cell.
13. To preserve antiques in premises of temple
nameplates are being affixed in front of various small
temples mentioning the names of the temples and their
era etc.
14. It shall be ensured that no new significant
construction is carried out in temple premises but so far
as the convenience and smooth passage in the premises
is concerned construction will be done with a due
permission of the competent authorities.
99
15. It The application that in order to implement the
above resolution a minimum period from one month to
one Year may be sought from the Hon'ble Supreme
Court."
ORDER DATED 27.10.2017
27.Following is the relevant portion of the order was passed by this
Court on 27.10.2017 :
“During the course of hearing on behalf of respon
dent No.1Shri Mahakaleshwar Mandir Committee, a
copy of the Resolution that has been unanimously
passed on 26‘" October 2017 has been placed on record.
It is stated that Resolution No.1 to 8 are being imple
mented.
Mr. Ashok Chitale learned senior counsel for the
petitioner has raised objections to some of the Resolu
tions that have been passed and seeks time to file re
ply/suggestions which would be in the interest of all.
Let the suggestions be filed by the petitioner and other
respondents, if any, within a period of fifteen days from
today. Reply thereto may also be filed by the Temple
Committee within next seven days.
Geological Survey of India and Archeological Sur
vey of India may also submit their proposals within a
period of fifteen days from today on the basis of the res
olution that has been passed by respondent No.1 on
26.10.2017 and objections/suggestions to the aforesaid
resolution.
List on 30
th
November 2017."
100
RESPONSE OF EXPERT COMMITTEE TO THE RESOLUTION DATED
26.10.2017 OF THE TEMPLE COMMITTEE:
28.With respect to the resolution passed by the Temple Committee
dated 26.10.2017, the Expert Committee appointed by this Court of ASI
and Geological Survey of India has submitted the following suggestions:
“The Expert Committee has gone through the
resolution passed by the temple committee and
submitting following suggestion:
We have described in our original report that many
offerings including Jal used during the rituals of
abhisheka are the main cause of deterioration to the
Jyotirlingam. We have suggested all offerings of the
material to be symbolic in nature with pure quality and
treated water of potable quality with pH value range
from 6.8 to 7.2 to minimize the adverse effect. Apart
from this, the periodical monitoring and proper
management of these crucial parameters are required to
manage this problem.
Suggestions/ Objections on the resolution passed by
the temple committee are as below:
Resolution of temple Committee:
Keeping in consideration the suggestions/ objections
and recommendations of the Expert Committee
constituted by the Hon’ble Supreme Court and also in
compliance of the order dated 13.10.2017 passed by
the Hon’ble Supreme Court, the Temple Management
Committee hereby passes the following Resolution
covering point 1 to 24 of the suggestions/ objections
and recommendations of the Expert Committee
constituted by the Hon’ble Supreme Court to protect and
preserve the Mahakal Shivlinga:
1.That the devotees shall be permitted a fixed amount of
water measuring 500 ml in an appropriate small pot per
devotee for Jalabhishek.
101
Expert Committee’s comment: Agrees
2.That the water for Jalabhishek shall a from the R.O.
machine installed during Simhastha, 2016 for which a
connection shall be provided near the Garbh Griha to
maintain the pH value at ‘7’.
Expert Committee’s comment: Agrees
Suggestions: The pH value of jalabhishek water may
vary as per variation in the source of supply of water
which has to be controlled by treatment ranging from
6.8 to 7.2 pH, but a periodical monitoring may be done
for maintaining the abovementioned range.
3.That at present during Bhashma Aarti, half of the
lingam is being covered with clothThe similar but as per
the directions, in fifteen days, the whole of the
Shivalingam shall be fully covered with a dry cotton
cloth during Bhasma Aarti.
Expert Committee’s suggestion: Due to bhasma aarti
ash particle retained in the pits over the lingam will
react with water and increase its pH value, resulting
aggravate the corrosion process of the lingam, therefore,
the lingam should be fully covered with thick cotton
cloth/ transparent polyfilm during bhasma aarti. The
Lingam should be thoroughly cleaned after Bhasma
aarti and ensure that all residual ash particle should be
removed from the lingam, then only jalabhishek with
clean and potable water with pH value range from 6.8
7.2 may be allowed.
4.That for Abhishek only up to maximum 1.25litre milk/
panchamruit per devotee shall be permitted.
Expert Committee’s suggestion:
That for Abhishek only up to maximum 1.25litre
milk/panchamruit per devotee are appropriate, but
during the rush time and special occasions such amount
may increase enormously, therefore, it is suggested that
the quantity may be reduced to symbolic in nature.
102
5.That after Jalabhishek of the lingam with is concluded
by 5 P.M. every day. The Lingam shall be properly
cleaned and dried to minimize the water content and
thereafter only dry pooja shall be permitted every day.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees.
6.At present captive sewerage, treatment technique is
being used for treatment and the same shall be
continued till the sewerage treatment plant is installed
for which steps are being taken with will require
minimum one year time.
Expert committee’s suggestion: Kotiteerath water
may be treated periodically and ensure that rainwater
of the temple premises, as well as drain off water from
the temple premises, should not be drained into the
pond and contaminate the kotiteerath pond.
7.That rubbing of sugar powder on Shivlinga has been
fully banned and instead the use of Khandsari is being
promoted.
Expert Committee suggestion: rubbing of any offering
material may be banned to stop further abrasion of the
lingam. A devotee may be allowed to offer their offering
symbolically but shall not be allowed to rub any
material over the lingam.
8.That dryers and fans will be used to avoid moisture.
Belpatra and flowers shall be used on the upper part of
Shivling to avoid any obstruction in natural breathing of
stone.
Expert Committee’s comment: Agrees
9.That the crowd management shall be strictly followed
as done on big festivals namely Simhashtha, 2016,
Mahashivratri, Nagpanchmi and month of Shravan
where maximum crowd appears on those holidays and
weekends. During such time the Committee is using
barricades for dong Darshna from outside the main
103
Garbhgrih and limited devotee are also permitted in the
Garbhgrih at a time. Similar arrangement shall be
ensured on normal days also.
Various IT proposals have been received to use
technology for effective crowd managing strategies, e.g.
IT based queue management.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees
10.That all possible efforts shall be taken to maintain an
ambient temperature of the lingam room (Grabhgrah) at
1720 degree Celsius. The Garbhgrih shall be kept dry,
neat and tidy. Further, an AUTOMATIC CLIMATE
CONTROL SYSTEM using sensors shall be fitted in
Garbhgrih to give information about temperature and
humidity which shall help in effective regulation and
monitoring of environmental factors.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees
11.That damaged area of marble flooring and sealing of
joints etc. shall be repaired within a period of six
months.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees
12.That all efforts should be made for the creation of
heritage cell and for restoration/ repairs and
maintenance of all items of historical importance. Steps
are being taken for the structure and role of the heritage
cell.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees
13.To preserve antiques in premises of temple nameplates
are being affixed in front of various small temples
mentioning the names of the temples and their era etc.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees
14.It shall be ensured that no new significant construction
is carried out in temple premises but so far as the
convenience and smooth passage in the premises is
104
concerned construction will be done with a due
permission of the competent authorities.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees
15.It is further resolved that in order to implement the
above resolution a minimum period from one month to
one Year may be sought from the Hon’ble Supreme
Court.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees”
ORDER DATED 30.11.2017:
29.Following order was passed by this Court on 30.11.2017 :
“We are concerned, and so express our anguish, as
to the way in which the orders which have been passed
so far in the matter are being misrepresented in media
and otherwise. We have not passed any interim
direction with regard to the manner in which the
religious ceremonies have to be performed in the Temple
at Mahakaleshwar, Ujjain. This Court has not passed
any order whatsoever that, during the Bhasma Aarti,
what rituals can, or what rituals cannot be, performed,
and neither it is the job of this Court to interfere in such
rituals. This Court has not passed any order in this
regard. We are concerned in the petition about the
protection of the lingam and how it can be done. For this
purpose, this Court has appointed a Committee of
Experts of G.S.I. as well as the A.S.I., and they have
submitted their reports. They are yet to be finally
considered by this Court.
A notice issued by the Managing Committee on
Board has been placed before us today, indicating that
this Court has directed that how much water has to be
offered on the lingam by the devotees or about the
quantity of Panchamrit etc. This Court had issued no
such direction. In fact, it appears that the Committee
itself has taken various decisions and they are being
implemented. The Notice Board which has been put by
105
the Managing Committee of the Temple should be
removed forthwith i.e. by today itself, and it is open to
the Committee to put it on the Notice Board as per its
resolutions if any. In case any wrong or misleading
reporting is made by the media, in any form, at the
instance of any person about the order passed by this
Court, the person so responsible for such wrong
reporting, misrepresentation about the order shall be
liable to be dealt with in accordance with law. It is
regrettable that there has been wrong reporting at
somebody's instance. We caution the parties before us
that they should not indulge in any such wrong
reporting, in any manner whatsoever, and if it is found
that any wrong reporting is made, the same shall be
viewed seriously, and the person responsible for it shall
be dealt with in accordance with law.
List the matter for further hearing on 4th December
2017."
30.As it was noticed that misrepresentation was being made with
respect to the order passed by this Court and unrest was tried to be
created on the ground that this Court is interfering with the religious
rituals to be performed in the temple during Pooja. Thus we have
clarified that we have not interfered with the same. Aforesaid direction
holds good for this order also and to be scrupulously observed by all
concerned. The only objective of entertaining the writ petition on the
aforesaid question was just to ensure that all the rituals which may be
necessary be performed however to ensure that the Lingam does not
deteriorate any further.
31.It is apparent from the report that there is a decay of the Lingam
and certain damage has been noted by the Expert Committee. Negative
106
factors have also been pointed out in extensive details. Activities
regarding the daily cleaning of temple premises, gaushala, Vedic
samsthan, mandir, rasoi of the temple etc. have been pointed out. The
study has been done by Spectroradiometer, portable XRF studies, water
analysis, ash analysis, the extent of weathering etc. Various
suggestions and recommendations had been made including the
remedial measures Mr. Madan Singh Chauhan, Regional Director, ASI,
Central Region, Bhopal report is contained in the first chapter. The
second chapter contains the report submitted by Dr. V. K. Saxena,
Director (Science), ASI, Science Branch, Dehradun. The third chapter
deals with the Geoscientific study of the Shivalinga made by Mr.
Hemraj Suryavanshi, Deputy Director General and Mr. L. Vishvakarma,
Director, Geological Survey of India, Bhopal.
32.It has been noticed in the report of the experts of the ASI and GSI
that deterioration of Lingam has taken place during the last 40 to 50
years as depicted in photos 1 to 4 and 5 to 8 annexures with the report.
It is further observed that the deterioration is continuous in nature and
can be managed with remedial measures.
33.It has been pointed out that the water analysis of the temple
premises used in the Jalabhishekam is highly alkaline in nature and
pH value ranges from 8.4 to 8.7. Various other causes have been
delineated in the report of the experts. In all 24 causes have been given.
Milk particularly contaminated one, sugar, leaves, petals and flowers,
107
poor drainage sanitation and water spillage, use of the water should be
minimum. Rubbing of jaggery/sugar powder should be restricted or
minimized. Use of a lot of flowers and leaves also keeps the Jyotirlingam
wet all the time and hinders natural breathing of the stone of
Jyotirlingam. Use of metal buckets, pots, utensils also causes abrasions
to the Lingam. If possible entry of devotees in Garbh Griha should be
limited. Garbh Griha should be kept dry and clean. There should be
proper air circulation in Garbh Griha. Arrangements for disposal of
waste may be improved and should be made more effective. Since
scientific/chemical treatment may not be acceptable, preventive
conservation methods may be helpful to keep the Jyotirlingam in the
best of its conservation state. Considering the historical importance of
the premises, use of modern materials in the premises should be
avoided so as to maintain the antiquity. There is a need to identify the
sculptures and they are required to be properly documented and
identified.
34.Some unwarranted restoration work has also been noticed by the
Committee in para 21. That should be looked after and remedial
measures should be taken as suggested in the report.
35.In para 22 certain new constructions have been pointed out. Let
the conservation be carried out with the help of conservator and experts
of ancient architecture. Other suggestions have been made in the
108
report. Paras 1 to 24 of these are required to be looked into and suitable
remedial measures should be taken by the Temple Committee.
Remedial measures suggested in the report with respect to water
quality, maintaining the pH value from 6.8 to 7.2, cleaning of
Jyotirlingam, also requires to be observed in the best possible manner
by the Committee and ambient temperature be maintained from 17 to
20 degree Celsius. Use of ghee, milk, curd, honey etc. be minimized.
36.There should be proper disposal of temple garbage and it should
be ensured that it does not contaminate the Kotiteerath Pond. Better
use of flowers would be that they are recycled for the production of
scent/itra. For that project may be prepared by the administration with
the help of concerned bodies or on the basis of PPP. Cleaning methods
should be modernized.
37.It is apparent from the response of the Committee filed pursuant
to the order dated 25.8.2017 of this Court that the Committee has
agreed (1) to save the Lingam by minimizing the flowers and offerings
material. (2) It has also been resolved that the Temple Committee shall
install an RO plant to maintain pH value of water at 7 and devotees
should be allowed to use minimum water. (3) Temple Committee has
also resolved that during Bhasma Aarti also they will take appropriate
steps which may be permissible. (4) As permissible, use of ghee, milk,
curd, and honey shall be restricted per devotee. These materials shall
be of ISI standards. (5) Lingam shall be properly cleaned and dried after
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Puja. (6) Expansion of drainage system was under process and be
completed at the earliest. (7) Rubbing of sugar powder on the Lingam
shall be banned. (8) It would be ensured that there is no harm caused
to the Jyotirlingam. (9) There is a management plan to permit limited
devotees at one time in Garbh Griha so that there is no stampede. (10)
They are ready to maintain the temperature of garbhgriha from 17 to 20
degree Celsius. There should be more air conditioners. (11) Damaged
area of marble flooring and sealing of joints shall be repaired. (12)
Provision has to made for proper circulation of air in garbh griha. (13)
Arrangements for disposal of wastes have to be improved.
38.Preventive conservation methods shall be used by the Committee.
Efforts shall be made to preserve the originality and antiquity of the
temple.
39.They have to also ensure that they will undertake necessary steps
for saving structure and life of devotees during Nagpanchmi. Let a plan
in this regard be prepared within two months. It is also directed that let
them make an effort for the preservation of historical monument the
new development work if any, should only be made to match with
ancient nature of the temple so that its heritage look is maintained. As
to the recommendations as mentioned in para 22 of the report of the
Experts Committee, same have been accepted by the Committee. Let
the Committee implement the recommendations as agreed to and
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resolved by it. Considering the national and international importance,
Temple Committee has rightly resolved to create a Heritage Cell for
maintenance and restoration of the old temples and structures inside
the premises. Let such cell be created at the earliest.
40.In compliance of the order dated 13.10.2017 the Committee has
passed various resolutions accepting various recommendation of the
Expert Committee quoted above. The Expert Committee of ASI and GSI
has filed response to the various resolutions passed by the Committee.
The Expert Committee has also agreed with most of the resolutions.
However, it has made certain suggestions which are to be considered by
the Committee and implemented in best possible manner.
41.Expert Committee suggestion in respect of Kotiteerath Pond water
to be treated periodically and to ensure that the rainwater of temple
premises, as well as drainage water from the temple premises, should
not be drained into the pond and contaminate the Kotiteerath Pond.
Has to be implemented in true spirit.
42.Committee of expert has also suggested that rubbing of any
offering by devotees may be stopped. Devotees may be allowed to offer
their offerings symbolically but not to be allowed to rub any material
over the Lingam. Let the Committee consider the aforesaid aspects and
to ensure that as far as possible no rubbing is done by the devotees on
the Lingam or by any material. The committee has also pointed out that
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no new significant construction to be carried out in the temple premises
except so far as convenience and smooth passage in the premises is
concerned, let the resolutions be carried out and fully implemented as
resolved by the Committee on time bound basis for different stages
within one year.
43.With respect to the method of “lingarchan”, i.e. the method of
linga pooja, the 27
th
chapter of “Ling Mahapuranm” has been placed on
record. That contains a detailed method of lingarchan running into 54
strotam. Apart from that “Shiv Mahapuranam”, Vayveey Sanhita
containing details of Shastrokt Shiv Poojan method in twentyforth
chapter has been placed on record. Pooja of different lingam may be
somewhat different. It is for the experts in the field of religion to decide
about the rituals and ceremonies to be performed. It is not for this
Court to make suggestions in this regard.
44.It is not within the jurisdiction of this Court to dictate or to
prescribe or restrain the religious practices and Pujas to be performed
in temple. They are required to be performed, as rightly pointed out, in
accordance with the ancient rituals and practices but, at the same time,
it has to be ensured that no damage is caused to the lingam. The
temple which is known as Mritunjaya Mahadev and is most ancient
Jyotirlingam in one of the ancient cities of India, Ujjain. ‘Simhast’ is
also organised 6 years and 12 years which has international importance
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visited by several millions of people. The Government spends thousands
of crores of rupees for development of infrastructure in Ujjain for each
such occasion and lot of development has taken place. Owing to all
these development work, Ujjain has come up. But at the same time very
cause of all developments, the Lingam of Lord Shiva requires to be
preserved, protected by way of preventive conservation methods.
45.In order to ensure purity of pooja materials and to prevent further
erosion of Lingam it would be appropriate and fitness of things that a
plan is prepared regarding the entire offering materials on the lingam to
be manufactured and provided by temple itself as is done in several
famous temples in the Southern part of India and other places. By
pouring the adulterated Milk, Ghee, Kumkum, Gulal, Abir containing
chemicals due to adulteration is improper and cannot be permitted to
be part of the ritual. Lingam cannot be permitted to be destroyed by
chemical reactions of impure materials or by pouring of the dirty water
such acts of offerings cannot be allowed and as are done innocently by
the people unaware of ill effect on lingam. Had devotees been aware of
all these, adverse effect of their Puja on the Lingam of their God itself of
which they are performing Puja for the spiritual or other gains they
would not have even dreamt of doing it. Let the Temple Committee and
other stakeholders rise to the occasion and take positive steps in this
direction in reasonable time.
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46.It was also pointed out that use of Bhang (cannabis) has been
started in recent past. It has been started approximately for the last 50
years and that is one of the causes of erosion as per the petitioner.
Earlier it used to be offered symbolically. It is for the Temple Committee
to decide on these rituals and which material to be used by it and in
which quantity for purpose of Puja by Temple and for how much time,
in what manner Bhang should be applied and in what rituals. Let
Committee consider it with help of scriptures and experts. How its use
can be best modulated by the Committee itself, considering past
practices, as the ultimate duty of Committee is to make preservation of
the Lingam itself for its existence and for that it has to consider and
adopt what is the best mode of performing the rituals, what are the
materials which should be used and in what quantity but it has to be
ensured that the materials are not impure and are without such
chemicals which may cause erosion of the lingam itself otherwise the
very purpose of Puja would be defeated.
47.Puja is to be performed in such a manner which should be
befitting to the deity and not to cause erosion itself of lingam for which
so much infrastructure exists. Lingam is known as ‘Mrityunjaya
Mahadev’, who prevents from destruction, it cannot be permitted to be
destructed. Lingam cannot be permitted to be exploited in a manner it
is destroyed. If one believes in the concept of real pooja, such Pooja is to
be performed by pure materials as purest of thoughts. No spiritual or
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other gain can come if Puja is performed in a manner which damages
the deity itself as that would amount to displeasing the saviour. That
would be against the basic tenets of performance of Pooja and of
making offerings.
48.Let the Temple Committee also invite and consider various views
for further improvement of the temple. Let the Temple Committee make
an endeavour along with other stakeholders to prepare/manufacture
the offering material in purest of the form and by such time it becomes
a reality to make an arrangement in such a manner that only pure and
unadulterated materials are offered in pooja on Lingam. No impure and
adulterated material is offered in Puja and the resolutions made by the
Temple Committee are scrupulously observed by all concerned.
49.Let a concrete plan be made by the Committee for further
improvement including its Gaushalas. Let existing Gaushala and
kitchen be improved and modernize and for that purpose, in case,
additional land is required, plan be prepared and implemented with the
help of all concerned so that temple becomes selfsufficient to provide
all pooja material based on milk product etc.
50.On merits, we find that the decision by the Single Bench has
rightly been set aside by the Division Bench for the various reasons
mentioned in the order and in particular in view of the fact that in the
impugned order the Division Bench has relied on decision in
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Ramchandra Mangilal & Ors. v. State of M.P. ILR (1991) MP 444 = (1987)
MPLJ 668 which had been affirmed by this Court as SLP against it was
dismissed. Hence no case for interference on merits is made out.
51.We appreciate the gesture to all concerned in acting with
positivity for the preservation of Lingam. We direct the ASI and GSI
teams as has been constituted that has visited and had submitted the
report to make a visit in January 2019 and submit a report in this
regard with respect to the position of the lingam and improvements
made as per suggestions made in the report.
52.Before parting with the judgment, we would like to reiterate that
there should not be any misreporting of the Court’s order, as specified
in our order dated 30.11.2017. Any violation on this count shall be
viewed seriously and sternly with appropriate consequences, wherever
necessary. It is hereby made clear that we have not interfered with
religious ceremonies to be performed in the Temple. Registry is directed
to preserve the original combined report of the Expert Committee as
part of the record as it is a valuable document.
53.The appeal is accordingly disposed of.
54.We appreciate the assistance rendered by Mr. Tushar Mehta, the
Additional Solicitor General of India, and all other counsel who
116
appeared in this case for various parties and also appreciate the gesture
of the experts of the Expert Committee.
.……………………………J.
(ARUN MISHRA)
…………………………….J.
(UDAY UMESH LALIT)
NEW DELHI;
MAY 02, 2018.
117
REPORTABLE
IN THE SUPREME COURT OF INDIA
CIVIL APPELLATE JURISDICTION
CIVIL APPEAL NO. 4676 2018
(arising out of S.L.P. (C) No.15459 of 2017)
SARIKA …APPELLANT(S)
VERSUS
ADMINISTRATOR,
SHRI MAHAKALESHWAR MANDIR
COMMITTEE, UJJAIN (M.P.) & ORS. ...RESPONDENT(S)
J U D G M E N T
ARUN MISHRA, J.
1. Leave granted.
2. The petition pertains to famous Mahakaleshwar temple, Ujjain.
The appellant has impugned the judgment and order passed in Writ
Appeal No.37/2014 by the Division Bench of the High Court of Madhya
Pradesh at Indore thereby setting aside the order passed by the Single
Bench on 4.12.2013 in W.P. No.10712 of 2013.
3. Mahakaleshwar is an ancient temple of Lord Shiva. In order to
understand the importance of the Lingam it is necessary to consider it,
in brief, the history of Mahakal – Shiva, worshipping of statues and
Lingam, origin of Mahakal, same as defined in scriptures etc. as pointed
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out in the reply of Mahant Prakash Giri of Shri Panchayati Akhara
Mahanirvani is as under:
“ BRIEF HISTORY OF MAHAKAL SHIVA
Since ancient times in Hindu culture definitions are
found in name of Shiva, Pasupati, Rudra, Ishaan, etc.
Undoubtedly, the Vedas are the only authentic and wellbeing
book of Hindu religion, when and where it was created it is
matter of search. But it can be said that at least 5000 years
ago, it was in complete existence.
Shiva is the instrument of discussion in Veda Mantras,
but that discussion is on shapeless god. Somewhere nature's
body is also addressed by various names of Shiva, part of
Vedic treatises of the Swaithashwar influx, it has been
discussed by the 'Sweth' sage on the basis of the Vedic
Mantras in the spiritual form of Shiva.
As briefly stated, [Abstract from Swaithashwar influx] :
The creator treats himself and all the controlling Divine
powers differently, therefore, it remains entangled in the
creation of universe [In the enjoyment of nature] And when
that incomparable divine power is experienced, then attain
liberation, that is salvation.
Indestructible or destructible, visible and not visible it
nourishes the divine (the supreme power) of this whole world,
the creature attracted to the qualities of nature, treating
himself as his boss, stays in the same nature, and when that
creature is experiencing that divine, attracted by the qualities
of nature, creatures [Jeev] keep himself tied by the attribute of
the same nature, and when that creature experiences that
divine, then he is exempted from all bondage.
The destructive staple and indestructible lifeforce is
formulated by a god called ‘Har’, with the thought of its
contemplation, and by the feeling of its element, the person
achieves the retirement of the cycle (nature) of the
reincarnation after liberation.
Braham in the soul should forever be known, there is no
more known qualified entity than this, the creator (creature),
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the usable material (nature), and the inspiration (God), this is
the only way Brahma said in three ways.
While commenting on this stanza, 'Shankaracharya' has
written with the reference of Shiva, that performers [Yogi] see
Shiva's not in idols but in soul, a person who relinquish Shiv
from his inner soul to worship outer Shiv, he feels as if he has
dropped his hands morsel (Food yoga substance) and licks his
empty palm, as the blind person can't see the rising sun, in
the same way, the uneducated person can't view the calm
form of Shiva. The person who view the omniscient
(everywhere present) calm form of Shiva, Shiva resides in his
heart, but those who can't see Shiva located in their souls,
those people use to search him at pilgrimage place. In the
interpretation of this stanza, it is written with reference to
Vishnu Purana that's the goal that is proven by the mind's
axiomatic (complete) Inconsistent (Due to meditation and
distinction between patience) the form is assumed, it is called
a Samadhi.
The power called a Rudra is governed by the entire
Universe, it is situated within all the organisms and creates
the entire universe (many planets located in space and space),
protects them and destroys (destruction of the universe)
means it merges in itself. Rudra Dev originates all the creation
and creatures.
Nature is to be known as illusion and Maheshwar as
Elusive this entire world (universe) is the Action Format of
both of them.
At the beginning of creation by becoming one [supreme
power] and being special by its power without any purpose
many types of characters [Special form] holds and in the end
the world dissolves in it and same supreme power provide
pure intelligence.
Supreme power is the fire, the same sun, the same air,
the same moon, the same Venus, the same Brahma, the same
water, and the same is Prajapati. Dev (supreme power) exists
in fire, which is in water, and is occupied (everywhere) in the
entire universe and which is present in the Medicine and the
vegetation also that god (God). This soul is neither a woman,
nor a man, nor an important, the one who holds the body
remains the same.
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The supreme power, (the power that exists everywhere),
that power is the form of knowledge, which is the power time
(time). Who is the virtuous and Omniscient [all knowing]
Inspired by that the earth, water, fire, air, and sky,
established In their own deed, keeps interaction, think of that
supreme power. HeadNeckand chest keeping the body
together, by controlling all the indices by concentrating peace
of mind, strengthen the meditation while uttering the sound
‘Om’.
To control the mind, do pranayama. These actions are to
be held at quiet, secluded, and in a clean place.
In this way, where ever Yogi does Yoga, the Yogi
experience the Brahma Tattva (God) with the illuminating self,
similar to the lamp, That yogi is free from all unborn, steady,
and all elements, he releases himself from all bounding by
knowing that God.
Thus, from this brief description of Shvetashwar
Upanishad, it can be understood that the Shiva as described
in Veda, he is the only creator of the Universe, is rearing the
universe, is also the destroyer, spreads everywhere known as
power form of formless God.
It is submitted that Vedas are the foundation of Hindu
religion, all types of basic knowledge and science are
available. This is the first knowledge book of the universe, on
basis of this Vedas, all Purans and Hindu texts are written or
spoken, now it can be seen brief form of Shiv from Hindu texts
written after Vedas. The 'Shev sect' is known for worshiping
different forms of Shiva by believing it as God, this sect. has
its own elaborate literature how much is truth, it is the matter
of research but in Bharat it has been recognized at least 2500
years ago it is known from the available evidence, how old is
this from it is a matter of research. The main forms of Shiva
People whom people in Bharat or abroad worship him as God
in the form of idol or phallus. The visual part of Shiv is as
follows:
2.Panchamukhi Shiva
2. Asht Vidh Shiva
3. Ekadash Rudra
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4. Various Incarnations of Shiva
5. Bhairav
6. Shiva's Yogavatar
The Origin of Lingas: The origin of the Linga's in the
Puranas in such a way that when this creation was taking
place, there was a fierce battle between Brahma and Vishnu,
and in that war a huge Jyotipunj appeared between them, As
a result of this sudden incident, both of them stopped fighting
together and went to know the secrets of this light; they went
up and down in the form of swan and wind, but there was no
end to it then both of them came back and gathered and
explored Lingas at that time they heard a sound ‘Om’ coming
out of that Jyotirmay Lingas, and universe was created, first
of all it came in form of Golden egg and it remain in same
format for thousand years after that egg got divided which
created Sky and Earth Brahma and Vishnu performed the
prayer of Jyotirlinga with Om Mantras then from that
Jyotirlingas in form of words [a,aa,e,ee,u,oo,r,tr,others) Shiv
along with Uma manifested when he lift his head again and
looked upwards then from sound of Omkar he visualize 38
words Ishan Mantras, 24 words Tatpurush Mantra, 33 words
Aghor Mantras, 35 words Sadhojat Mantras and 66 words
Vamdev Mantras knowing these five mantras Vishnu started
Chanting these mantras and prayed Shiva by these in Mantra
form from here onwards the origin of worship Jyotipunj Lingas
started, the main meaning of the word lingas is symbol, i.e.
here, we understand from Shivling that in entire universe
Shivaling is considered to be the symbol of the ultimate power
which prevails inside and outside of it, word Shiva it the only
power who runs, creates, .and destroy this universe. This
universe is its direct symbol, hence Shivling is considered as
symbol of God.
Different types of lingas: There are two main types of
lingas the first type of lingas is called as swambhu, meaning
of swamboo is who is selfgenerated, second type of Lingas
are produced, Lingas are produced from Mercury, Gold, Silver,
Diamond, Sfetik, Precious Stones, stones and Mud, it can be
made from other materials also, Shiv Lingas made of mud are
dissolved in water after worshipping daily balance type of
Lingas are permanent. According to tradition every piece of
stone found in Narmada river is treated as Lingas. Apart from
this trees and plants are also symbol of Shiv Lingas.
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Legislation of worshiping Statues and Lingas: Shiva
statue created along Human shape is called Pratima, Customs
of worshiping the Idols and Lingas are almost same.
Worshiping of Shiva's Formless Lingas: In addition to
external worship, internal worship is also mentioned in the
Puranas, for spiritual contemplation and meditation two types
of Lingas have been defined Lingas created by physical
materials available outside and interior Lingas, for the sake of
emotional fulfillment of common mass concept of Solid outside
form of Lingas, has been perceived, the epicenter lingus
which means the spiritual astral body, which does not have
direct experience the same ignorant persons perform prayer
etc everything outside by imagining it externally, by
meditating Jnan meditation yoga, in meditation, that subtle
Lingas symbol of Shiva sees himself sitting in his own right.
Once this knowledge is attained, there is liberation this is
worshiping the formless Lingas. Knowledgeable people
perform meditation yoga by the equator were he visualize
subtle shape Shiva sitting within itself when his knowledge is
attained he gets Liberation, this is the way to worship the
formless Lingus.
Pasupat ki Utpatti: According to Ling Purana, Pasupat
vrat Yoga scriptures and Kapil Samkhya are composed by
Shiva and Pasupat was created earlier and it's the best. Shiva
had very first preached to Vishnu etc deities of Pasupat
second time he preached at time when he inhale poison occur
from sea churn, third time he preached to Prajapati Daksh on
the occasion when Daksh oblation [Yag] was vandalize. Shiva
28 yoga avatars were also holders of pasupat vrat they
spread the Pasupat through their disciples. Pasupat vrat
which was originated by Lord Shiva, after him the Yoga
incarnation held at different times by different people took
forward but all of them are not available in Holy book [Grant]
but they are discussed in the context here and there. Out of
these the last Yoga avatar his name was 'Lakuleesh' and he
was born presently known as Gujarat in Vadaodra district,
according to time he reached Ujjain their he delivered his first
preach to Kushik and other disciples on manner in which Shiv
performed and practiced the Pasupat vrat, and Mahadev
south facing statute i.e sacraments or pledge the bhasma
purified by Sadhojatadi 5 Shiva Mantra's to Mahakal this
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prime action has been interpreted in Pasupat Sutra by
authentic interpreter 'kodilya' in his first Sutra. Mahadev
authentic southdirection Linga formation is the only one at
'Mahakaleshwar Jyotirling' besides this the accreditation is
that it doesn't exist at any other place. Persons who adopt
Pasupat yog should take bath thrice with Bhasam, should
sleep on bed of Bhasma, even after taking food etc he should
put Bhasam on his body, should possess Shiva Nirmaalya,
such as House holders and people living in the other
hermitage have their own special symbols likewise Bathing
with Bhasam [Bhasam ashnan], Sleeping on Bhasam,
Anuashnan Shiva Nirmaalya are symbol of person of
Pasupatl's, Pasupati should chant five Braharn mantra
purified by 'Sadvoiata'all these should be performed in
congruence of south facing staue of Lord Mahadev.ln brief it
has been narrated about Pasupat,
Pasupat tradition originated from Lord Shiva has always
been followed regularly in Bharat today they are known as
'Naga Sadhu', There is evident proof of Pasupat and Naga
Sadhu's are time to time mentioned in ancient books [Grants],
and are been quoted in scripts of others religion [Jainism and
others].
Origin of Mahakal : According to Shiva Mahapurana
Kotirudra sanhita Update 16, a Brahmin lived with his four
sons in Ujjain [Ujjani] city, that Brahman daily used to perform
Agni horn & terrestrial Shiva Linga, at the same time an evil
demon called Dushan lived on the mountain called Ratanmal.
On day when Brahman was delighted in meditation of Lord
Shiva then only Dushan monster arrived along with his army
and tried to kill Brahman then only Lord Shiva manifest from
the terrestrial Linga worshiped by the Brahman, said that I
am Mahakal who destroys evil demon like you, move away
from this Brahman, and by a single word 'Hunkar' reduced
that evil demon along with his army into ashes, after the
killing of Dushan these Brahmins prayed to Lord Shiva to stay
their and Lord Shiv accepted it stable himself in form of Lingas
and known as Mahakal. In the 17th chapter of this mythology,
King Chandra Sen of Ujjain and one Gope child also worship
the Mahakaleshwar Lingas.
Pasupat and Mahakal : In the Puranas and many other
literature, the material related to Mahakal is obtained,
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according to available evidence, current Mahakal temple is the
only authentic South facing Shiva Linga, ,in the past there
was crematorium at this place, this is the only Shiv Lingas in
the universe on which from unknown time ashes of funeral
pyre brought from crematorium by pronouncing Sadyojata Five
mantras is plated by Naga [Pasupatis] Sadhu. This tradition is
not experimented anywhere else except Mahakal no other sect
in the universe except Pasupat loves Bhasam and
crematorium, he is worshiper of south facing Shiva and uses
bhasam purified by Pach Braham[ Sadyojata] mantras.
Current format of Pasupat which was preached by Lukulish in
Ujjain these probes that Pasupat and Mahakal are mutually
related and according to the said behavior in Mahakal before
and during today's time, Mahant of Nag a Sadhu's at Mahakal
is following the tradition of Pasupat. Swet Saga the first
Pasupat acharya in Swetashwer upnished have mentioned at
different places about Divine power of Shiva especially in
chapter (420) He has praise a special appearance of Rudra's
southern face, In mahabharat chapter Anushasan parv Shiva
told Uma that I have delivered the preaching on Pasupat from
my Southern face, in Shiv Mahapuran, Ling Mahapuran,
Panchbrahmhopnishad volumes south facing Shiva has been
called Aghor, It is famous the crematorium is very dear to
Shiva and Shaiv Aghories, in Ling Mahapuran worshiping
South facing Shiva by Bhasam has been mentioned
specifically, proof in these texts certify & it is evident that the
present Jyotilinga of Mahakal south facing aghor shiva statue,
that's why Naga Sadhu's (Followers of Pasupat branch) are
offering Bhasam ashnan daily to him, since ancient times
(according to the evidence of Kondilya it is 1500 years back) is
being performed even today. The ritual of performing Bhasma
ashnan to Mahakal can be carried out only and only by Naga
sadhu's nobody else can do nor should it can be attempted. If
attempted it will destroy the tradition and will hurt the
sentiments of Hindu religion. Today even the Hindu devotees
visit Mahakal to visualize the Bhasma Ashnan of Maharaja
Mahakal.
Antiquity of Mahakal and Pasupat: By 1735 when
Ujjain has come under domination of Marathas at that time
Ranoji Schinde who was appointed by Peshwas, and has
given charge of Ujjain to Diwan Ramchandra this Diwan
Ramchandra had rebuilt the present Mahakal Temple, approx
1235 Shamsuddin Alatmas had robbed and destroyed the
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Mahakal Mandir. Restoration of Mahakal Temple was
executed by Raja Bhoj approx during 1010, state poet Ban
Bhat of Harshvardan who ruled the state during 590647 has
also described about Mahakal & Pasupat in his poem
Harshcharit & Kadambari. During the time of Vikramaditya
great Poet Kalidas has specifically mentioned Mahakal
Temple in his Poetry Raghuvansh and Meghdoot it is difficult
to specify the time of Kalidas, but at least 1650 years is
prevalent in the past not less than that. Apart these
description of Mahakal are found in Puranas and Tantra
shastra also, but time can be mentioned by Historians, we
can't. In book Heart of Jannisium written by Stevenson has
also mentioned that Founder of Jain religion Mahaveer also
visited Ujjain and has performed austerity, famous Mahakal
Temple was established in Ujjaini. What is the truth we can't
say but from the available scripts it can be mentioned that
approx 2000 years past existence of Mahakal Temple is
evident because Historian has predicted the time of
composition and preaching of Pasupat 150 B.C to 1st A.D and
there is indirect form of discussion of Mahakal in Pasupat
Sutra. Now briefly we should view the ancientity of Pasupat.
From 1295 to 1385 a person named Acharya Madhav has
mentioned briefly about Nakulish Pasupat Sight to Shavya
Sect in his book called Sarvya Darshan. In eight century
Shankracharya has specifically discussed about Pashupat
Sect in his Vedant Sutra chapter 2, fart 2, formula 37 which is
an authentic book. This Formula of Vedant has clearly
mentioned of Pasupat Sect by mentioning word Pati so the
Pasupat is ancient the Braham Sutra and the time of
composition of Vedant sutra is between 4000 B.C to 450 B.C
as described by historian in their own way, so it is difficult to
predict the exact time, approx 2000 years back Pasupat Sect
was fully established or it was' in the beginning shape this
can be said.”
Preservation of Mahakaleshwar Linga:
4. This Court has primarily entertained the petition vide order dated
5.5.2017 as it transpired that the idol of Lord Shiva in the form of
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Lingam is in danger due to various causes and it has deteriorated as
such notice was issued to ensure its preservation.
5. The appellant has filed an additional affidavit in the matter of
erosion of Lingam. It has been pointed out that due to the erosion of
Omkareshwar Jyotirlingam, offerings have been banned.
Omkareshwsar Jyotirlingam is situated nearby Ujjain. In this regard,
newspaper report dated 15.11.2006 as to Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlingam
has also been filed.
6. Following is the report dated 15.11.2006 published in the
newspaper UNI :
“ Mahakal Jyotirlinga eroding:
Published: Wednesday, November 15, 2006, 11:40 [IST]
Indore, Nov 15 (UNI) 'Jyotirlingam' of Lord Mahakal at
temple town Ujjain is gradually getting eroded. More
than 30 square cm scalp of the holy 'lingam' has come
out with nearly 78 mm thickness from the eastern side
along with 34 similar circular patches, having 22.5 cm
diameter and 6.5 mm depth, just above the bigger
patch. The entire holy 'lingam' is having geological scal
ing on the western side. Two vertical carving has raised
concern that the 'lingam' will have enough chances of
splitting into three pieces in future.
Dr. Ram S Shrivastava, a known scientist closely ob
serving the holy lingam since 1953, is convinced that if
due care was not taken then "we will have to cut a sorry
figure in future." He said the Mahakal was the oldest
'Jyotirlingams' out of 12 'Jyotirlingams' in the country
and the only one facing south. The Mahakal temple was
destroyed by Sultan Shamsuddin Iltutmish of Delhi in
127
1235 and it was later restored by the Scindias in the
19
th
century.
There is a 5,000yearold record available for worships.
It is believed that the 'Jyotirlingam' was found inside the
Koti Teerth Kunda in the Mahakal campus and the tem
ple was first constructed by King Vikramaditya. Dr.
Shrivastava said one of the reasons for erosion could be
pouring of chlorinated water nearly 25,000 litres a day
besides about 80 'pundits' from 16 Brahmin families
massaging the lingam on rotation basis using Bhat
Shringar, Bhang Shirngar etc. Milk' and other offerings
could be accounted in tonnes. Almost every visitor
touched the holy shrine and often rubbed and pressed it
during prayers.”
7. Yet another report dated 7.7.2014 about banning of offerings of
sugar, ghee, milk, curd etc. in the temple at Ujjain has been placed on
record. That management wanted experts to check erosion of
Jyotirlinga of Mahakaleshwar Temple at Ujjain. Following is the report
dated 7.7.2014 :
“Mahakal management wants experts to check
erosion of jyotirlinga
TNN | Jul 7, 2014 11.42 AM IST
UJJAlN: Mahakaleshwar temple administration has
written a letter to the commissioner of state archaeol
ogy department to send a team of experts to examine
reported erosion in treasured stone jyotirlinga at the
temple.
District collector and temple committee head BM
Sharma told newspersons on Saturday that steps
needed to prevent the erosion would follow the report
and suggestions of experts expected to visit the tem
ple shortly.
The issue of erosion of Shivling has been in news for
128
over a decade, prompting the issuance of guidelines.
But norms were not implemented. .It has been re
ported several times that use of impure puja materials
like sugar, ghee, milk, curd, and others is causing ero
sion in twoandhalffeet high shivling. The adminis
tration even restricted the use of these materials to
1.25 liter per devotee a few years ago, but it was not
controlled and monitored. Similarly, a suggestion to
establish kiosk of Sanchi milk in temple corridor to en
sure pure milk, ghee to pilgrims, is gathering dust.
The shops outside the temple are selling substan
dard puja materials and devotees have no option but
to buy them.
The shivling at Mahakal is much in height compared
to jyotirlinga at Onkareshwar temple in Khandwa dis
trict and the administration there a few months ago
the restricted use of panchamruit material to avoid
the erosion. Use of sugar granules is already banned
in other Mangalnath temple in Uijain and devotees
have been asked to use powdered sugar.”
Reasons for decay and conservation of heritage monument have
also been placed on record.
8. Later on, an application under Article 142 of the Constitution of
India has also been filed by the appellants for the issuance of
appropriate directions for the preservation of Lingam and prayer has
also been made for the appointment of Expert Committee.
9. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlingam has so much importance for
spiritual and other gains, there is a constitutional duty to protect it as
envisaged in Article 25, Art. 26 read with Article 49, at the same time
there is a fundamental duty under Article 51A of the Constitution to
129
promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood as provided in
Article 51A and to value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite
culture. It is also the duty to strive towards excellence in all spheres of
individual and collective activity as provided in Article 51A (a)(j).
Articles 51A (a), (e), (f) and (j) are extracted hereunder:
“[51A. Fundamental Duties.
It shall be the duty of every citizen of India
(a) to abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and
institutions, the National Flag and the National Anthem;
(e) to promote harmony and the spirit of common
brotherhood amongst all the people of India transcending
religious, linguistic and regional or sectional diversities; to
renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women;
(f) to value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite
culture;
(j) to strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual
and collective activity so that the nation constantly rises to
higher levels of endeavour and achievement.”
10.In Ms. Aruna Roy & Ors. v. Union of India & Ors. (2002) 7 SCC
368, this Court has considered the importance of moral values in
religions and it was observed that the religion is the foundation for the
valuebased survival of human beings in a civilized society. The force
and sanction behind civilized society depend on moral values. Religion
should not be misunderstood. The secular democracy requires where
even a very weak man hopes to prevail over a very strong man on the
strength of rule of law by proper understanding of duties towards the
society. In Aruna Roy (supra) this Court has observed thus:
130
“30. Undisputedly, the aforesaid S.B. Chavan
Committee's report was placed before Parliament for
discussion. None can also dispute that the past five decades
have witnessed a constant erosion of the essential social, moral
and spiritual values and increase in cynicism at all levels. We
are heading for a materialistic society disregarding the entire
value based social system. None can also dispute that in a
secular society, moral values are of utmost importance. A
society where there are no moral values, there would neither be
social order nor secularism. Bereft of moral values secular
society or democracy may not survive. As observed by the
Committee, values are virtues in an individual and if these
values deteriorate, it will hasten or accelerate the breakdown of
the family, society, and the nation as a whole. In a society
where there is constant evaporation of social and moral values
for getting property, power or post, is it not advisable to have
a solid social foundation from the base level so that a grownup
person would fight against all kinds of fanaticism, illwill,
violence, dishonesty, corruption, and exploitation? The answer
would obviously be 'yes.'
31. Further, for controlling wild animal instinct in human
beings and for having a civilized cultured society, it appears
that religions have come into existence. Religion is the
foundation for value based survival of human beings in a
civilized society. The force and sanction behind civilized society
depend upon moral values. The philosophy of coexistence and
how to coexist is thought over by the saints all over the world
which is revealed by various philosophers. How to coexist, not
only with human beings but all living beings on the earth,
maybe animals, vegetation and the environment including air
and water, is thought over and discussed by saints and
leaders all over the world which is reflected in religions. If that
is taught, it cannot be objected as it is neither violative of
constitutional or legal rights nor it offends moral values. This
has been dealt with elaborately by the S.B. Chavan Committee.
The Committee as stated above had invited suggestions from
noted educationists on various aspects of valuebased
education. As stated by the Committee it had benefited by the
views of eminent experts/NGOs doing pioneering work in this
area. Further, no one can dispute that truth (satya), righteous
conduct (dharma), peace (shanti), love (prem) and nonviolence
(ahimsa) are the core universal values accepted by all religions.
The Committee has also pointed out that religion is the most
131
misused and misunderstood concept. However, the process of
making the students acquainted with the basics of all religions,
the values inherited therein and also a comparative study of
the philosophy of all religions should begin; students have to be
made aware that the basic concept behind every religion is
common, only the practices differ. If these recommendations
made by the Parliamentary Committee are accepted by NCERT
and are sought to be implemented, it cannot be stated that its
action is arbitrary or unjustified.
32. Further, it appears to be a totally wrong presumption
and contention that knowledge of different religions would
bring disharmony in the society. On the contrary, knowledge of
various religious philosophies is material for bringing communal
harmony as ignorance breeds hatred because of wrong notions,
assumptions, preaching and propaganda by misguided
interested persons.”
11.There is a pious purpose of all the religious activities, no religion
breeds hatred. It is in order to bring harmony and to understand basic
human values and for selfrealization and to visualize the concept of
equality pilgrimages by the various sections of people of various
religions. Secularism is the basic structure of the Constitution that has
to be given the meaning that is developing understanding and respect
towards different religions. The essence of secularism is non
discrimination of people by the State on the basis of religious
differences. In the Commissioner, Hindu Religious Endowments, Madras
vs. Sri Lakshmindra Thirtha Swamiar of Sri Shirur Mutt [AIR 1954 SC
282], this Court has considered the concept of religion under Article 25.
It has been observed that it secures to every person, subject to public
order, health and morality, a freedom not only to entertain such
132
religious belief, as may be approved of by his judgment and conscience
but also to exhibit his belief in such outward acts as he thinks proper
and to propagate or disseminate his ideas for the edification of others.
This Court has observed that the question relating to the
administration of properties belonging to a religious group or institution
are not matters of religion. Religion is a matter of faith with individuals
or communities. It is not necessarily theistic. In the said case it was
observed that "there are wellknown religions in India like Buddhism
and Jainism which do not believe in God or in any Intelligent First
Cause. A religion undoubtedly has its basis in a system of beliefs or
doctrines which are regarded by those who profess that religion as
conducive to their spiritual wellbeing, but it would not be correct to
say that religion is nothing else but a doctrine or belief. A religion may
not only lay down a code of ethical rules for its followers to accept, it
might prescribe rituals and observances, ceremonies and modes of
worship which are regarded as integral parts of religion. The guarantee
under our Constitution not only protects the freedom of religious
opinion but it protects also acts done in pursuance of a religion and
this is made clear by the use of the expression practice of religion."
12.In Prafull Goradia v. Union of India [2011 2 SCC 568] this Court
has observed that if Government is making small expenditures
separately for separate religions, therefore granting support to Haj
133
pilgrims was not violative of Article 14 or 15. This Court has observed
thus:
“8. In our opinion Article 27 would be violated if a
substantial part of the entire income tax collected in
India, or a substantial part of the entire central excise or
the customs duties or sales tax, or a substantial part of
any other tax collected in India, were to be utilized for
promotion or maintenance of any particular religion or
religious denomination. In other words, suppose 25 % of
the entire income tax collected in India was utilized for
promoting or maintaining any particular religion or
religious denomination, that, in our opinion, would be
violative of Article 27 of the Constitution.
10. In our opinion, if only a relatively small part of
any tax collected is utilized for providing some
conveniences or facilities or concessions to any religious
denomination, that would not be violative of Article 27 of
the Constitution. It is only when a substantial part of
the tax is utilized for any particular religion that Article
27 would be violated.
14. Hence, in our opinion, there is no violation of
Article 27 of the Constitution. There is also no violation
of Articles 14 and 15 because facilities are also given,
and expenditures incurred, by the Central and State
Governments in India for other religions. Thus there is
no discrimination.”
13.This Court in Transport & Dock Workers Union v. Mumbai Port
Trust (2011) 2 SCC 575 has considered the essential spending of the
government money on religions when it can be violative of Article 27
and has laid down thus:
“10. Insofar as the provision of Section 9A of the
Industrial Disputes Act is concerned, it was submitted
that since by the policy decision no change in relation to
the personnel who were working was intended to be
brought about, there was no question of giving any
notice of change.
134
11. The learned Counsel appearing for the appellants
relied on the judgment of the Supreme Court in People's
Union for Democratic Rights v. Union of India AIR 1982
SC 1473 to contend that a writ petition by workers,
when they claim any violation of fundamental right, is
maintainable. The learned counsel also relied on the
judgment of the Supreme Court in Moti Ram v. North
East Frontier Railway AIR 1964 SC 600 to claim that
the respondentPort could not have framed a policy
which violates the guarantee of Article 14 of the
Constitution.
12. The learned counsel appearing for the appellants
further relied on the judgment of the Supreme Court the
Olga Tellis v. Bombay Municipal Corporation AIR 1986
SC 180 to contend that even if an undertaking is given,
that undertaking does not stop the person who has
given the undertaking from asserting his fundamental
right.
13. The learned counsel for the respondents on the other
hand relied on the judgments of the Supreme Court, in
Ravi Paul v. Union of India 1995 (3) SCC 300, and M.P.
State Textile Corporation Ltd. v. Mahendra 2005 (10)
SCC 675, and submitted that in one establishment there
can be employees having separate duty hours.
14. In our opinion, the writ petition filed by the
appellants should have been dismissed by the High
Court on the ground of existence of an alternative
remedy under the Industrial Disputes Act. It is well
settled that writ jurisdiction is discretionary jurisdiction,
and the discretion should not ordinarily be exercised if
there is an alternative remedy available to the
appellant. In this case there was a clear alternative
remedy available to the appellants by raising an
industrial dispute and hence we fail to understand why
the High Court entertained the writ petition. It seems to
us that some High Courts by adopting an over liberal
approach are unnecessarily adding to their load of
arrears instead of observing judicial discipline in
following settled legal principles. However, we may also
consider the case on merits.”
135
14.The Government spends a huge amount on Kumbh/Simhasth
Melas being organized at such places. Even otherwise, when there is a
large number of a gathering of persons every day and in particular
during melas and other festival times, State has obligation to provide
the basic amenities to the pilgrims. It is the bounden duty of the
Government to make proper arrangement to provide shelter places, for
maintenance of law and order and to sanction the amount without fear
of violation of the concept of secularism. Right to life includes mental
and intellectual growth which is laid down in Shantistar Builders v.
Narayan Khimalal Totame (1990) 1 SCC 520. In P.G. Gupta v. State of
Gujarat & Ors. (1995) Supp 2 SCC 182, considering the International
covenant on economic, social and cultural rights, food, clothing, and
shelter have been held as part of Article 21.
15.There is a constitutional obligation to preserve the religious
practices of all religions, culture and there is also a corresponding duty
to act in that direction. Similarly, such acts which are necessary for the
preservation of such historical monuments/deities. State is duty bound
to spend the amount so that not only the archaeological, historical and
ancient monuments are preserved but sanctum sanctorum, as well as
the deity otherwise no useful purpose would be served by spending so
much amount on Simhastha/ Kumbh Melas in case deity, is itself
permitted to be deteriorated as it has happened at other places
136
particularly nearby Omkareshwar Jyotirlingam by offerings and
rubbing it etc. has deteriorated and now barricades have been erected
around the lingam and nobody is permitted to touch it. Same is true
with respect to other important temples of which reports have been
filed. It is apparent from the reports published about Omkareshwar
that the administration had banned offering of milk, ghee, water, curd
and other traditional materials to save the Jyotirlingam from further
erosion. It is regrettable that we have not been able to preserve and
protect our Jyotirlingas of immense importance and there was a
proposal to install new Lingam at Omkareshwar in place of original. In
2006, also there was a report of erosion of Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlingam
at Ujjain and it was feared that Jyotirlingam owing to the two vertical
carvings had enough chances of splitting into three pieces in future. On
the strength of a report of known scientist referred to therein, who had
observed Jyotirlinga since 1953, in his opinion, if due care was not
taken we will have to cut a sorry figure in future. Mahakaleshwar is the
oldest Jyotirlingam out of dwadash (twelve) Jyotirlingams in the
country. The main cause of constant erosion of Lingam was water and
other impure material.
16.News Report dated 7.7.2014 also reflects that Mahakaleshwar
temple management wanted experts to check the erosion that was
caused by impure puja materials like sugar, ghee, milk, and curd etc. It
was regretted that suggestion to establish kiosk of Sanchi milk in
137
temple corridor to ensure pure milk, ghee etc. to pilgrims was gathering
dust. Devotees have no option but to purchase substandard and
adulterated materials.
17.As per the report on famous ‘Mangalnath temple' situated at
Ujjain itself, there special Puja and Abhishekam is performed for
‘Mangal Grih Shanti'. The report indicates that District Administration
has banned offering of sugar, vermilion as rubbing thereof was causing
damage to the Shivling. Use of sugar had been banned with immediate
effect as it was causing highest damage and use of other materials had
also to be limited. Use of substandard and chemical contained
vermilion and turmeric powder was also proposed to be checked and it
was decided that herbal articles would be made available for pooja. It is
regrettable that in temple of such immense importance the deities are
being destroyed due to aforesaid impure materials of Puja which are
being offered. A report dated 12.5.2014 had been placed on record
indicating a ban on touching idol of Muktinath Lingam inside
Muktinath Temple in Mustang district of Nepal. It was also mentioned
that the Government team was working on a master plan for the
development of Muktinath temple. Said temple is a holy place for
Buddhists and Hindus.
18.There are other reports placed on record with respect to the
damage being caused to other important deities in the temple like
138
Mahalaxmi Temple at Kolhapur and Bhoramdev Shivling at Kavardha in
State of Chhattisgarh. Report of erosion of Shivling at Trimbakeshwar
temple in Nasik, Maharashtra. The report indicates that erosion is due
to use of excessive use of water etc. We had initially called the
suggestions from Temple Committee itself for preservation of Linga.
INITIAL SUGGESTIONS OF TEMPLE COMMITTEE
19.In compliance of the order dated 5.5.2017 passed by this Court
the Temple Committee has filed following suggestions:
“2. That in compliance of the same the committee
sought a report from the Department of Geology,
Vikram University, Ujjain, Prof. P.K. Verma, Professor
of Applied Geology submitted the report. Hereto an
nexed and marked as ANNEXURE R1/3 is the true
and correct copy of the report dated 11.06.2017.
3. It is submitted that as per the report of Professor
Verma dated 11.06.2017, the corrosion of Shivlinga is
mainly due to touching of Shivlinga with a variety of
impure puja material including adulterated milk, curd,
sugar, sugarcane juice, flowers etc during Abhishek
or other special pooja which are performed regularly,
since time immemorial.
4. Though, as per the observation of Professor Verma,
the process of chemical reaction is supposed to be of
very low intensity, practically negligible. The other
constituents (other than silica) of the rock, however,
are vulnerable to such impure/adulterated pooja ma
terials. He had suggested that these chemical reac
tion & corrosion can be reduced by avoiding usage of
the impure or chemically adulterated pooja materials
over Shivlinga.
139
5. That keeping in view the suggestion made by Pro
fessor Verma and also with earnest desire of the tem
ple committee to protect any corrosion of Shivlinga, a
special subcommittee was constituted by the Collec
tor, who also is the President of the committee to dis
cuss issue of corrosion as well as to explore the pro
posal and remedial measures for avoiding any further
corrosion of Shivlinga. The subcommittee consisted of
the following 7 members.
1. Pt. Shri Anand Vyas, Archeologist
2. Pt. Ghanshyam Sharma / Representative,
Shri M.T.S., Ujjain
3. Pt. Pradeep Sharma, ExSamiti member of
Shri M.T.S., Ujjain
4. Pt. Ashok Sharma – Purohit
5. Shri Prakashendra Mathur, Archeologist
6. Representative of Pollution Control Board
7. Administrator, Shri Mahakaleshwar Mandir
Samiti, Ujjain
6. The first meeting of the subcommittee took place
on 13.06.2017 where the Food Controller of the State
Government also participated in the said meeting. Af
ter a detailed discussion on the remedial measures to
protect the corrosion of Shivlinga the following reme
dial measures were proposed by the committee :
S.No
.
Subject Suggestion
1. Consideration/discussio
n on the milk to be
offered to the God
(Bhagwan)
There is a tradition
of Dugdhbhishek of
Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar. In
this regard, it was
suggested that
140
highquality milk
may be used. There
must not be any
adulteration in the
milk. Stringent rules
may be made in
this regard. For this
purpose, the Temple
Committee (Mandir
Samiti) may make
arrangement for
milk at its own
level. For this
purpose, ‘Sanchi'
can be used and in
future, by
upgrading Temple
Gaushala more, the
milk may be
brought directly
from the Gaushala
to the temple and
the milk imported
from outside
sources may be
strictly prohibited.
2. Consideration/discussio
n on the issue of
Panchamrut Poojan
(offering)
The Panchamrut
ablution is done
every day to God
Shiva. In this
regard, it was
suggested that
Panchamrut may be
prepared by the
Temple
Committee/Samiti
itself. For this
purpose, it may
provide highquality
milk and curd at its
own level and may
not directly mix
sugar in the
Panchamrut. For
141
this purpose, sugar
dust may be used.
The quantity of
Panchamrut, as
already prescribed
for 1
¼ liter, may be
complied with.
Honey (Shahad) etc
may be made
available from the
Gramodyog etc.
3. Consideration /
discussion on worship /
offering materials
On the shops
situated outside the
temple, the
offering/worship
articles are sold,
viz. Abeer, Gulal,
Kumkum (Saffron)
etc. In this regard, it
was suggested that
the Mandir Samiti
(Temple Committee)
may fix a shop or
the Samiti may
itself run a shop
where pure worship
materials may be
available. The
worship materials
being sold presently
in the outside area
of the Temple may
be
prohibited/restricte
d immediately.
4. Discussion on ‘Jalpaatra’For Jalabhishek
(water ablution) of
Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar, the
Jalpatra has been
installed at the
Jaldwar (Watergate).
The said Jalpatra
142
may be cleaned
every day with hot
water so that the
acid being gathered
in the pipe etc may
not be
gathered/accrued.
5. Consideration of the
issue of constantly being
big garland etc. on the
‘Jyotirling of Bhagwan
(the God)'.
Constant
Jalabhishek (water
ablution) is done to
the Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar
from 06 O’clock
morning till 4.30 PM
in the evening. For
this purpose, a big
garland etc may
remain constantly on
the ‘Jyotirling of
Bhagwan’ so that
water, milk etc. may
not fall directly on
the Jyotirling.
6 Consideration of the
issue of a test of water,
milk, and articles etc.
This suggestion was
received in the
meeting that the
articles and
materials from
which the worship
etc. of Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar is
done every day, all
these may be tested
once, from which
this fact may be
clear that which
material is
positive/suitable for
the Jyotirling and
which materially
affects the Jyotirling
negatively.
143
Hereto annexed and marked as ANNEXURE R1/4 is
the true and correct copy of the minutes of the meet
ing dated 13.06.2017.
That the said proposal has been accepted by the com
mittee for implementation and the temple committee is
accordingly taking steps to protect the Shivlinga. The
above proposal is according submitted before the
Hon’ble Court.”
REPORT BY PROF. PRAMOD K. VERMA DATED 11.06.2017
20.A Report by Prof. Pramod K. Verma dated 11.6.2017 has also
been filed by the Committee in the form of Annexure R1/3, which is as
under:
“JAI SHRI MAHAKAL
11
th
June 2017
This brief description comprises visual observation
of Lord Mahakaleshwara Shiv Linga for its potential
erosion due to pooja offerings by devotees.
By an invitation from Mahakaleshwara Mandir
Samiti, I along with Dr.Awadesh Bhatt visited the
Lord Mahakaleshwar Temple on 08th June 2017 at
2:00 pm for performing the above task. For obvious
reasons, it was possible to have an only limited ob
servation and thus, only torch and hand lens was
used.
The following observations were made:
1. The Sacred Shiva Linga is approximately 2 feet in
diameter and 2 feet in height.
2. The Shiva Linga is made up of Sandstone (looks
very similar to Vindhya Sandstone which occurs in
the nearby areas).
144
3. The sandstone is of arenaceous in nature with the
major percentage of quartz clasts of the size generally
less than 2 mm. The clasts are clearly visible through
a hand lens.
4. The other clast material appears to be feldspar (or
thoclase) giving the rock a typical pinkish colour.
5. The matrix is also of an almost similar composition.
6. The cementing material is mostly siliceous. How
ever, a small amount of calcareous/feldspathic (not
distinguished by lens observation) cementing materi
als is also present.
7. The cementing material other than siliceous matter
is likely to undergo dissolution when exposed to the
acidic environment. As a result, there may develop
tiny depressions (or pits) over the Shiva Linga.
8. The depressions or pits may occur when adulter
ated/impure pooja materials are offered over Shiva
Linga during Abhisheks. The corrosion, in the long
run, may occur due to touching of Shiva Linga with a
variety of impure pooja materials including adulter
ated milk, curd, sugar, sugarcane juice, flowers etc
during Abhishek or other special pooja which are per
formed regularly.
10. Once even a small pit is formed, these materials
may get into the rock and, may try to loosen the bond
ing by various chemical processes.
11. As the rock is largely composed of a siliceous ma
terial, the process of chemical reaction is supposed to
be of very low intensity, practically negligible. The
other constituents (other than silica) of the rock, how
ever, are vulnerable to such impure/adulterated pooja
materials.
12. A more systematic and scientific investigation
may be needed to come to a firm conclusion.
145
13. Nonetheless, at this stage, it is suggested that im
pure or chemically adulterat4ed pooja materials must
be avoided by offering over Shiva Linga."
21.The Minutes of the Meeting dated 13.6.2017 of the Temple
Committee have also been placed on record vide R1/4. The relevant
portion is extracted hereunder:
“ SHRI MAHAKALESHWAR MANDIR SAMITI, UJ
JAIN
MINUTES OF MEETING DATED 13.06.2017
Today a meeting was held in the Administrative of
fice of Mahakaleshwar Temple under the Chairman
ship of Shri S.S. Rawat, Administrator, and Joint Col
lector, with regard to as to how Lord Mahakaleshwar
Jyotirlinga can be best protected. The following mem
bers were present:
1. Dr. Prakashendra Mathur Archeologist
2. Pt. Pradeep Sharma ExSamiti Member
3. Pt. Ashish Sharma Representative of
Pujari
4. Pt. Ashok Sharma Purohit
5. Shri D.V.S. Rawat Pollution
Department
6. Shri Shailesh Kumar Gupta Food Controller
A discussion was held by the members present at
the meeting in respect of erosion in the Jyotirling and
following suggestions were proposed by the Commit
tee:
S.N
.
Subject Suggestion
1.Consideration/discussion on
the milk to be offered to the
God (Bhagwan)
There is a tradition
of Dugdhbhishek of
Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar. In
146
this regard, it was
suggested that high
quality milk may be
used. There must
not be any
adulteration in the
milk. Stringent rules
may be made in this
regard. For this
purpose, the Temple
Committee (Mandir
Samiti) may make
arrangement for
milk at its own level.
For this purpose,
‘Sanchi' can be used
and in future, by
upgrading Temple
Gaushala more, the
milk may be brought
directly from the
Gaushala to the
temple and the milk
imported from
outside sources may
be strictly
prohibited.
2.Consideration/discussion on
the issue of Panchamrut
Poojan (offering)
The Panchamrut
ablution is done
every day to God
Shiva. In this
regard, it was
suggested that
Panchamrut may be
prepared by the
Temple Committee /
Samit itself. For this
purpose, it may
provide highquality
milk and curd at its
own level and may
not directly mix
sugar in the
147
Panchamrut. For
this purpose, sugar
dust may be used.
The quantity of
Panchamrut, as
already prescribed
for 1
¼ liter, may be
complied with.
Honey (Shahad) etc
may be made
available from the
Gramodyog etc.
3.Consideration/discussion on
worship/offering materials
On the shops
situated outside the
temple, the
offering/worship
articles suggestion
in, viz. Abeer, Gulal,
Kumkum (Saffron)
etc. In this regard, it
was suggested that
the Mandir Samiti
(Temple Committee)
may fix a shop or
the Samiti may itself
run a shop where
pure worship
materials may be
available. The
worship materials
being sold presently
in the outside area
of the Temple may
be prohibited/
restricted
immediately.
4.Discussion on ‘Jalpaatra’ For Jalabhishek
(water ablution) of
Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar, the
Jalpaatra has been
installed at the
Jaldwar
148
(Watergate). The
said Jalpatra may
be cleaned every
day with hot water
so that the acid
being gathered in
the pipe etc. may
not be gathered/
accrued.
5.Consideration of the issue of
constantly being Sandstone
garland etc on the ‘Jyotirling
of Bhagwan (the God).
Constant
Jalabhishek (water
ablution) is done to
the Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar
from 06 O’clock
morning till 4.30 PM
in the evening. For
this purpose, a big
garland etc may
remain constantly
on the ‘Jyotirling of
Bhagwan’ so that
water, milk etc may
not fall directly on
the Jyotirling.
6.Consideration of the issue of
a test of water, milk, and
articles etc.
This suggestion in
the meeting that the
articles and
materials from
which the worship
etc of Bhagwan
Mahakaleshwar
crowd every day, all
these may be tested
once, from which
this fact may be
clear that which
material is
positive/suitable for
the Jyotirling and
which materially
affects the Jyotirling
149
negatively.
Sd/
Administrator & Joint Collector
Shri Mahakaleshwar Mandir Samiti
Ujjain”
CONSTITUTION OF COMMITTEE OF ASI/ GSI BY THIS COURT
22.This Court vide order dated 25.8.2017 had constituted a
Committee of two officers of the Archaeological Survey of India and two
officers of the Geological Survey of India to submit the report. Following
is the relevant extract of the order:
“A proposal has been submitted by Mr. Tushar
Mehta, learned ASG for a constitution of an Expert
Committee and to nominate the names of two officers
of Archaeological Survey of India and two officers of
Geological Survey of India. It is submitted by Mr.
Mehta that the officers are experts in the field.
The Central Government suggests the following
team :
1.For Archaeological
Survey of India
1. Shri Madan Singh
Chauhan, Regional
Director, (Archaeologist),
ASI, Central Region,
Bhopal
2. Dr. V.K.Saxena,
Director (Science),
(Archaeological Chemist),
ASI, Science Branch,
Dehradun
2.For Geological Survey
of India
1. Shri Hemraj
Suryavanshi, Dy. Director,
General, State Unit,
Madhya Pradesh, GSI,
150
Bhopal.
2. Shri L.L. Vishwakarma,
Director, GSI, Bhopal
The Union of India shall bear the expenses of the
Committee so formed. The Committee to study/survey/
analyze/examine Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlingam of Ujjain
(MP) and to prepare a report containing the rate at which
the deterioration in the size of Lingam is taking place, if
any, and the measures/ steps/ precautions to be taken
to ensure that this deterioration/shrinkage of the
Lingam stops. Let the Committee also study the other
structures and also the temple and submit what steps
are required to be taken to overall improve the entire
premises and for its preservation.
Let the Committee make a study and report seeing
as how much deterioration of Lingam has taken place
during the last threefour decades and what remedial
steps have to be another part.
Let the Committee submit a report be within a
period of four weeks from today. A copy of the report as
and when submitted be furnished to the learned counsel
for the parties. We request the Administrator to extend
fullest cooperation.
List the matter on Tuesday i.e. 03.10.2017.”
REPORT BY EXPERT COMMITTEE OF ASI/ GSI
23.Following is the report (excluding photographs) submitted by the
aforesaid Experts of ASI and GSI:
“ REPORT
ON THE STUDY / SURVEY / ANALYSIS / EXAMINATION OF
MAHAKALESHWAR JYOTIRLlNGAM OF UJJAIN (MP)
BY :
1: Madan Singh Chauhan, Regional Director, A.S.I., Central Region,
151
Bhopal
2: Dr. V.K. Saxena. Director (Science), A.S.I., Science, Branch
Dehradun
3: Hemraj Suryavanshi, Dy. Director General, GSI, Bhopal
4: L.L. Vishwakarma, Director (G.S.I.), Bhopal
ABOUT THE REPORT
This report is being submitted to the Additional Solicitor General of
India by the Committee Members of Archaeological Survey of India
(ASI) and Geological Survey of India. Conservation status and the
causes of decay/deterioration of the Jyotirlinga in general on the
basis of his knowledge of the subject and experience in the field.
The report is divided into 4 (Four) Chapters.
1
st
Chapter of the report deals with the archaeological and religious
significance of the Mahakal temple and need for its proper
maintenance and restoration made by Madan Singh Chauhan,
Regional Director, ASI, Central Region, Bhopal.
2
nd
Chapter of the report deals with the general observations made
by Dr. V. K. Saxena, Director (Science), ASI with respect to the
overall decay/deterioration of the Jyotirlinga on the basis of his
knowledge of the subject and experience in the field.
3
rd
Chapter deals with the Geoscientific study of the Shivalinga
made by Hemraj Suryavanshi Dy. Director General and L.L.
Vishvakarma, Director, Geological Survey of India, Bhopal.
4
th
Chapter deals with the suggestions and recommendations and
remedial measures.
CONTENTS
CHAPTER∙ I
1: RELIGIOUS AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF
UJJAIN AND MAHAKAL TEMPLE
1.1: Introduction
1.2: Religious and historical significance
1.3: Prevalence of tangible and intangible heritage in Ujjain
1.4: Archaeological evidence
152
1.5: Mahakal temple and premise
1.6: Condition of garbhagriha and shivalinga
1.7 A: Shivalinga, modification, and effect
B:Morning worship and material used in the worship
1.8: Maintenance and restoration of temple premise and activities
CHAPTER II
2: NATURAL (PHYSICO~CHEMICAL) WEATHERING OF STONE WITH
REFERENCE TO MAHAKAL JYOTIRLlNGA
2.1 General Chemical Characteristics of Some of the Offerings Used
During Rituals:
Milk
Dahi or curd
Homemade deshi Ghee
Honey
Sugar products
Sandal or Chandan
Bhang (Cannabis)
Abir or Gulal
Kanku or Kumkum
Fruit juices
Bhasm/ Ashes of cow dunks cake
Oil lamps, Dhoop or incense sticks
2.2. Natural Weathering of sandstone
A: Water A major cause of the decay of stone
B: Biological decay or Biodeterioration of stone
2.3. Examination of the Mahakal Jyotirlinga and Garbhgriha
A: General Observation of the Jyotirlinga
B: Drainage facilities for the disposal of the liquids and solids
C: Electrical fittings
2.4. Other Observations
CHAPTER III
GEOSCIENTIFIC STUDY OF JYOTIRLINGAM MAHAKALESHWER,
UJJAIN
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Observation and studies of Jyotirlingam
3.2.1 Visual observation
3.2.2 Studies based instrument
3.2.2(a) Spectral studies by Spectroradiometer
153
3.2.2(b) Portable XRF studies
3.3 Water analysis by portable water analysis kit and ICPMS
Instruments
3.3.1 Ash analysis
3.4 Discussion and interpretation
3.4.1 Extent of weathering
3.4.2 Causative factor
3.4.3 Weathering through ages
CHAPTER IV
A: SUGGESTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
B: REMEDIAL MEASURES
DETAILS OF ANNEXURES
I. Worship schedule and offering material of Jyotirlingam,
Mahakaleshwer Temple, Ujjain
II. Spectroscopy study of Jyotirlingam of Mahakaleshwer temple,
Madhya Pradesh, XRF Study of Jyotirlingam of Mahakaleshwer
Temple, Ujjain
III(a) Approximate chemical analysis of Lingam rock by portable
XRF instrument
IV(a) Chemical analysis of water samples from Mahakaleshwer
temple premises, Ujjain
(b) Trace element analysis in water samples from Mahakaleshwer
premises Ujjain
IV(c) Chemical analysis of bhashma offered to Jyotirlingam: and
ash samples from Mahakal temple
1.1 INTRODUCTION : On the direction of the Additional Solicitor
General of India, the Director General, Archaeological Survey of
India, in his office letter no. 33/BO/2017M dated 24.8.2017
recommended names of undersigned for the Committee to assess
the deterioration of Shivalinga of Mahakal Temple at Ujjain and to
prepare a report containing the rate at which the deterioration in
the size of Lingam is taking place during lost threefour decades, if
any, and the measures/steps/precautions to be taken to ensure
this deterioration/ shrinkage of the Lingam stops. Beside that to
study the other structures and also the temple and submit what
steps are required to be taken to the overall improvement of the
entire premise and for its preservation. In pursuance of the
direction, the temple known as Mahakal or Mahakaleshwar at
154
Ujjain was inspected by the Committee Members jointly on
7.9.2017.
Before putting the observation on the assessment of the
Shivalinga and temple of Mahakal and other subsidiary shrines
inside the premise it was felt inevitable by the committee to
highlight its Archaeological, Historical and religious significance so
that, on that perspective, an assessment could be made.
In Ujjain, Mahakal temple is located in the west of the city on
the bank of River Kshipra in ancient time that area was known as
Mahakala Vana (Mahakal forest). It is 192 km west of capital city
Bhopal and takes around three hours by road journey from Bhopal
to reach here.
Mahakal temple is one of the most venerated temples known
by this name and one of the twelve famous Jyotirlingas shrines of
the country.
1.2 RELIGIOUS AND HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE
The grandiose of Mahakal and Ujjain / Avanti occurs equally in
the ancient texts of Brahmanical, Buddhist and Jaina sects.
Avanti has been referred as country and Ujjain as its capital in
the ancient texts. The first name of "Avanti "is liter in the
Yajurveda for the meaning of protection. It is said that Ujjain was
also named as Avanti and this name is nomenclatured after the
name of Avanti: a son of Kartaviryaarjuna of Mahishamati
kingdom. In Meghadut of Kalidasa, Abhidhanchintamani and in
Naradapurana it was termed as Avantika, Avantikapuri,
Avantinagari or Avantikapur, Vishala, Pushkarandini, Nandini,
Amravati, Kanakashringa, Kushasthali, Padmavati, Kumudvati,
and Pratikalpa. It is believed, existed in six kalpas and in each
Kalpa it was called as Swarnashringa, Kushasthali, Avantika,
Amravati, Chudamoni, and Padmawati. In kathasaritsagara, it is
mentioned that Ujjain was called in four names in four yugas like
Padmavati Bhogawati, Hiranyawati, and Ujaini. In Kuvalayamala
its name is referred as Kushal Nagari.
It is said that during the churning of the sea by the gods
and demons then begun the wild scramble for immortality with
the demons chasing the gods across the skies and in the process,
a few drops of nectar were split and fell at Hardwar, Prayag,
Nasik, and Ujjain.
155
There are different meanings of "Ujjain' and 'Ujhain". It
means protection, a tradition wherein people worshipped Indra for
rain, in Gujarati and Prakrit it means a picnic, in Sanskrit, it is
called as udyan or garden. In the north Himalayan region, it
means attempt for any special task while in the Malwa tradition
this word is called when people worship Lord Indra by keeping fast
for rain.
ln Pali language it is called Ujani, in Prakrit Ujaiyani,
Ptolemy referred it as Ozen, HuenTsang calls it Ujayana, Arab
geographer referred it as Ujjhen and in the coins, name occurred
as Ujani. In the Mrichchakatika play of Sudraka of 5
th
century AD,
Ujjain was inhabited by various communities viz. Shakas,
Tushars, Greeks, Persians, Magadha, Kirata, Kalinga, Bongo,
Mahishak, Chole, Pandya, trader of Kerala and several prostitutes.
In the Skandapurana there are references to seven seas or
Saptasagaras mentioned as Pushkar Sagara, Kshira Sagara,
Goverdhan Sagara. Rantnakar Sagara, Vishnu Sagara,
Purishottama Sagara and Rudra Sagara. The Rudra Sagara is
mentioned in the Mahakal Vana (nearby the Mahakal temple). As
a religious city, Ujjain occupied the same place as of the Benaras,
Goya, Mayapuri, and Kanchipuram. By the 6th century BC, Avanti
with its capital at Ujjain is mentioned in Buddhist literature as
one of the four great powers along with Vatsa, Kosala, and
Magadha. Ujjain locates on the ancient trade route which
connected north India to the south via Mathura Ujjain
Mahishmati Paithan and then to western Asia. Periplus gave the
accounts of Ujjain referred by him as Ozene is to the east of
Barygaza (Broach) which fed all commodities of the trade like
onyx, porcelain, fine muslins. mellow coloured muslins and
cotton, spikenard and costusbodellium. In the Udaipur, prashasti
mentions Vakati I of Paramara dynasty as the king of Avanti and
they are said to form their capital at Mahakala vana at present
Ujjain. The Mahipal and his kalachuri confederate Bhamana deva
are said to have conquered the territory up to banks of Narmada
including Ujjain and Dhar. The downfall of this wealthy city begun
in 1234 with the invasion of IItutamish of Slave dynasty of Delhi
who along with the, also dismantled Mahakafa temple and in
search of treasure he dismantled Shivalinga from the jaladhari or
pithika and thrown into kotitirtha and picked up golden idols
including idol of Vikramaditya and brought to Delhi.
During the time of Mughal king Akbar, a city wall was
constructed around the city for the defense of Ujjainisand Nandi
156
Darwaja, Kaliadeh Darwaja, Sati Darwaja, Dewas darwaja and
Indore darwaja were the various entrances to the city.
In 1658 a battle took place near Ujjain in which Aurangzeb
and Murad defeated Maharaja Jaswant Singh of Jodhpur who
was fighting on behalf of Prince Dara.
Thereafter Sawai Jai Singh was made governor of Malva by
Muhammad Shah who built an observatory and several other
temples over there. In the 17th century, this region of Malwa came
under the sway of Maratha who constructed numbers of temples
in Ujjain and modern Ujjain came into existence. During this
period the artists especially painters of Poona and Kangra styles
flourished their art in the structures of Ujjain and distinctive
wooden carving on the balconies and galleries were decorated in
Ujjain. Thereafter this legendary city of Ujjain came under the
control of Scindias from 1750 1810. Ramoji Scindia was powerful
Sardar of Maratha who made Ujjain the capital of Malwa. He
remained always busy in the wars hence his diwan
Ramachandra baba look after the affairs of Ramoji Scindia. On
the information supplied by the local brahmins regarding
dumping of Shivalinga into the kotitirtha by Iltutamisha,
Ramachandra baba exposed that Shivalinga and installed inside
the main place and constructed temple over the original place.
Thus present temple is of Maratha period. In 1810 Doulat Rao
Scindia shifted his capital at Gwalior and subsequently, Ujjain
lost its commercial importance.
1.3 PREVALENCE OF TANGIBLE AND INTANGIBLE HERITAGE IN
UJJAIN
As stated above that Ujjain is a very ancient city of great religious
and heritage significance even today there are numbers of
temples with living tradition existing over here preserving both
tangible and intangible heritage of the country. Apart from the
Mahakal temple, other known temples in Ujjain are 84 temples
dedicated to Lord Shiva in different names as below;
1: Augusteshwara Mahadev,
2: Gurihshwar Mahadev,
3: Dudeshwar Mahadev,
4: Damrukeshwar Mahadev,
5: Anadikalpeshwor Mahodev,
6: Swaranjaleshwar Mahadev,
7: Tivisthpeshwar Mahadev,
157
8: Kapaleshwar Mahdev,
9: Swargdwareshwar Mahadev,
10: Karkotakeshwar Mahadev,
11: Siddheshwar Mahadev,
12: Lokapaleshwar Mahadev,
13: Kameshwar Mahadev,
14: Kutumbeshwar Mahadev,
15: Indradumneshwar Mahadev,
16: Ishaneshwar Mahadev,
17: Apsareshwar Mahadev,
18: Kolkleshwor Mahadev,
19: Nagchandreshwar Mahadev,
20: Pratihareshwar Mahadev,
21: Kukuteshwar Mahadev,
22: Karkateshwar Mahadev,
23: Meghnadeshwar Mahadev,
24: Mahalayeshwar Mahadev,
25: Mukteshwar Mahadev,
26: Someshwar Mahadev,
27:Anarkeshwar Mahadev,
28: Jateshwar Mahadev,
29: Rameshwar Mahadev,
30: Chavaneshwar Mahadev,
31: Khandeshwar Mahadev,
32: Pattaneshwar Mahadev,
33: Anandeshwar Mahadev,
34: Kanthadeshwar Mahadev,
35: Indraeshwar Mahadev,
36: Markandeshwara Mahadev,
37: Shiveshwara Mahadev,
38: Kusumeshwara Mahadev,
39: Akrureshwara Mahadev,
40: Kundeshwara Mahadev,
41: Lumpeshwara Mahadev,
42: Gangaeshwara Mahadev,
43: Angarkeshwar Mahadev.
44: Utaareshwar Mahadev,
45: Trilochaneshwara Mahadev,
46: Veereshwara Mahadev,
47: Nripeshwara Mahadev,
48: Abhayeshwara Mahadev,
49: Prithukeshwara Mahadev,
50: Sthavareshwara Mahadev,
51: Shooleshwara Mahadev,
52: Onkareshwara Mahadev,
53: Shree Vishveshwara Mahadev,
158
54: Kanheshwara Mahadev,
55: Singheshwara Mahadev,
56: Revanteshwora Mahadev,
57: Ghanteshwara Mahadev,
58: Prayageshwara Mahadev,
59: Siddheshwara Mahadev,
60: Matangeshwara Mahadev,
61: Soubhageshwara Mahadev,
62: Rupeshara Mahadev,
63: Sahastradhanukeshwara Mahadev,
64: Pashupateshwara Mahadev,
65: Brahameshwara Mahadev,
66: Jalpeshwara Mahadev,
67: Kedareshwara Mahadev,
68: Pishachamukteshwara Mahadev,
69: Sangameswar Mohadev,
70: Dudhareshwar Mahadev,
71: Yogeshwar Mahadev.
72: Chandradityayeshwara Mahadev,
73: Karbheshwar Mahadev,
74: Rajsthaleshwar Mahadev,
75: Badleshwar Mahadev,
76: Aruneshwar Mahadev,
77: Pushpadanteshwara Mahadev,
78: Abhimukteshwara Mahadev,
79: Hanumanteshwara Mahadev,
80: Swapneshwara Mahadev,
81: Pingleshwara Mahadev,
82: Kayavarohaneshwar Mahadev,
83: Bitkeshwar Mahadev, Durdureshwar Mahadev.
These Mahadeva's temples are in the Ujjain city itself while
out of eightyfour the temples of four are within the same
premise of the Mahakaleshwara temple. These are
Anadikalpeshwara Mahadev, Thrivisthapreshwara Mahadev,
Chandradityeshwara Mahadev, and Swapneshwara Mahadev.
Besides Shiva temples in the city, there are nine temples
dedicated to lord Vishnu known by "Nau Narayana" (nine
Narayana) are; 1: Ananta Narayana, 2: Satya Narayana, 3:
Purushottama Narayana, 4: Adi Narayana 5: Shesha Narayana,
6: Padma Narayana, 7: Laxmi Narayana, 8: Badri Narayana, 9:
Chaturbhuja Narayana.
Other religious and heritage places are Avanti devi temple,
Bade Ganesh temple, Harsiddhi Shakti Peeth, Ramghat, Datta
159
Akhada, Chaubis Khamba, Gopal Temple, Yogeshwar tekri
(Tope), Nagar kot Maharani temple, Chaunsath Yogini, Sandipani
Ashram, Mangalnath, Angareshwor, Ramajanardan temple,
Chitragupta temple, Gada Kalika temple, Vindhyavasini temple,
Tomb of Matsyanath, Bhrutahari cave, Kalbhairava temple,
Siddhvatta, Kaliadehmahal, Ashtachiranjivi, Rinmukteshwar,
Aagyabetal, Veer Durgadas ki chhatri, Vedshala, Chintamani
Ganesha, Novagriha temple, Iskon temple, Ramanujakot, and
Archaeological Museum.
1.4 ARCHAEOLOGICAL EVIDENCE:
The site of ancient Ujjain is not however identical with the
modern city of Ujjain. As the time passed, the socalled Mahakal
vana converted into a populous city while the ancient city is now
a desolate waste and known as Garh which is situated at the
north of the modern city of Ujjain and converted into a tabled
land of about 9 15 m above the adjoining plain.
The excavation carried out in the preindependent era and
after was done in a different location nearby the city. In the first
excavation of the site in Ujjain in 193839 Garde, its
archaeological potentiality was proved by the findings of a large
miscellany of coins, terracotta, beads, and pottery etc. after that
further excavation was carried out in vaishya tekri, kumhar tekri
and pallevali or kankar tekri where excavation yielded brick
stupas. In the Kumahar tekri, other antiquities were also
recovered dated of 1
st
century BC. Thereafter further excavation
was carried out in 195558 and 196465.
In 1955 58, Site of excavation was chosen at Garh Kalika
mound where significant result was found in; period I; 750 to 500
BC; black and red ware, bright redware, double slipware and few
sherds of PGW and remains of rampart and remains of mud brick
fortification of about 74.67 to 197 m wide enclosed by moat,
evidence of road of 7.32 m wide, other objects of iron which may
go back about 1000 BC. In period 11, NBPW with the association
of thick grey ware and unslipped redware remains of structure
made of mud, mud brick and stone rubble, ring wells, punch mark
coins and ivory seal bearing inscription dated 2
nd
century BC was
obtained. In period III, evidence included antiquities and remains
dated in three phases i.e. from Sunga, Satvahana, Kushana, and
Gupta period (200 BCSOO AD). From late Gupta to early Parmara
period (500AD 900 AD) and from Parmara to Muslim (900 1300
AD). In the period IV, apart from other antiquities coins of
160
Aurangazeb, Shah Alam, Daulat Rao Scindia and Jankoji Rao
Scindia were recovered.
In 1964 65 excavations a small structure of limestone basin
was found associated with NBP.
1.5 MAHAKAL TEMPLE AND PREMISE: There are total 142 small
and large temples including Mahakal temple inside the temple
premise, of them, some are raised independently on the floor of
the premise and some attached in the niches and cells of the main
and other temples but all are counted and venerated separately.
At the southwest of the Mahakal temple has Anadikalpeshwar
Mahadev temple on a slightly raised platform now converted into
a new construction in red stone flooring all around the temple
and steps at the north side for reaching to the temple. This
temple also faces east and consists of a Nandi mandapa,
saonotnorciooa, mandapa, and garbhagriha. Garbhgriha enshrines a
Shivalinga within jaladhari. The garbhagriha, mandapa, and
pillars of sabhamandapa and Nandi mandal appear old while the
roof of the latter two are new constructions and painted in pink
colour.
On the right of the Anadikalpeshwar temple has
Briddhakaleshwar temple on the same level of floor as the former
laid in red stone flooring like Anadikalpeshwar, this temple is
also repaired with unmatched paintings on the roof of main
shikhara and mandapa, while on the walls of mandapa, new
stones are added in between the pillars to cover the mandapa.
Just backside of the Briddhakaleshwar temple is a small
shrine constructed only to enshrine an old sculpture of Lord
Vishnu which is now in a poor state of preservation as a thick
patina of oil and other offering material has been developed over
this image.
On the east side of the Anadikalpeshwar and
Briddhakaleshwar temples are other shrines of various
dimensions dedicated to different deities. All these are painted in
pink and red colors. They all are raised on the different level of
the floor covered in red stone flooring. All the shrines are more or
less modified with marble, red stone, and modern tile flooring
and paintings of many different colors especially at the inner
sides of the shrines. In some of the temples like Balavijaya
Maruti temple whole interior and exterior has been changed with
161
modern tiles used on the floor and walls.
On the west side of the Mahakal temple is kotitirtha
(ancient pond) surrounded by the modern structures and
dharamshalas at north, west and south sides. In between the
kotitirtha and structures, there is a sufficient space developed
with stone steps all around for leading to the kotitirtha. Besides
that, numbers of miniature shrines raised in four pillars and
topped by round dome like shikhara enshrining each with
Shivalinga, are built around the pond indicating of kotitirtha
(innumerable pilgrimage).
Beside that numbers of small shrines are raised at the front
side (eastnorth) of the main temple in varying sizes and
dimensions.
The garbhagriha (sanctum) of Mahakal appears basically a
cave enshrined with Shivalinga. It is quite deep below the ground
level. There is no physical evidence available there about the
construction of original temple, but as of now, the temple
existing over the main sanctum is of very late period probably of
Maratha period (18
th
century AD) wherein some of the traits of
bhumija style of Parmara period appears adopted in the walls and
shikhara of the shrine. Therefore, it can be inferenced that prior to
this temple of Maratha period, here was the temple in the Bhumija
style of which traits were adopted in the present temple.
Over the sanctum, Mahakal temple faces east, supported
by total 48 pillars arranged in 7 rows but when sanctum, where
the main Jyotirlingam enshrines, is entered, it can be reached
from two the narrow passages from east and west sides through
two doorframes on the south and the north sides. The general
public is allowed to enter through north side doorframe while
south doorframe has been used by the staff and VIPs for
entering into the garbhagriha (sanctum). The south side
doorframe is composed of three shakhas and is approached by a
flight of steps down to the ground floor whence another
doorframe of plain design opens at south into the garbhgriha.
On the north side, doorframe, plain in design, has cladded
in silver metal and ornamented in religious figurines, symbols
and canopied by snake at the fintel.
In the premise, Mahakal temple occupies a central place.
Besides that, there are about 142 other temples in small and
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large size constructed within the premise. Of them
Briddhakaleshwar and Anadikalpeshwar temples are
considerably larger and almost corresponding in core style and
both locates at south of the Mahakal temple, other dedicated to
Sakhshigopal, Veerbhadra Mahadev, Ichcha Ganesh,
Mangalnath Avantikadevi, Koteshwar Mahadev, Rakeshwar
Mahadev, Suryamukhi Hanuman, Balahanuman, Bhadrakali,
Siddha tantra, Ram mandi, Narsimha, Nilakantheshwar,
Kashivishvanath, Annapurna Devi, Gayatridevi, vitthalnath ere
are small. Mahakal temple is constructed in three floors above the
ground floor. Each floor at the front is provided by a portico
supported with pillars.
The underground floor is dedicated to the Mahakal wherein
garbhagriha enshrines a shivalinga, ground floor to Omkareshwar
wherein another small shivaling enshrines, the first floor has a
cell, and second consists of a sanctum with Shivallinga, also a
sculpture of Nagchandreshwar is placed inside a niche on the
north wall of the 2
nd
floor and covered by a glass window.
On the south side at the ground floor, a doorframe opens
into narrow steps leading to the 1
st
and 2
nd
floors which appear
not for general public but only for pujaris for worshipping
Nagchandreshwar. It appears that prior to Maratha period whole
temple might have constructed in parmara style and when fallen
it was probably attempted to restore in the same style but could
not be adopted in ditto, therefore, a new Pushpa had evolved with
a blend of Parmara Maratha style. Architecturally, the temple
can be classified into three broad part from below to top
consisting of vedibandha, jangha, and shikhara. From the ground,
each projection raises equally up to the jangha and then to the
top where it terminates into a large finial. On the ground floor,
there is each portico provided on the north, west and south sides
to enter the sanctum of this floor by doorframe of plain design.
There is no extraordinary decoration on the outer walls except
moldings at lower walls and miniature shrines at the shikhara. At
the ground level whole temple has been supported with 48 pillars
on front side and pilasters on the corners of the walls.
1.6: CONDITION OF GARBHAGRIHA AND JYOTIRLINGA/
SHIVLINGA/ LINGAM
In the ground floor, the garbhogriho of Mahakal is almost a
square cell measuring 4.16 x 4.16 m enshrining with a Shivalinga
within jaladhari with silver encasing measuring a length of 2.08 m
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and dia in 1.27 m. Generally, the mouth of jaladhari opens into
the north side but here it opens at the east direction.
The inner walls and ceiling of the sanctum are cladded with
the silver sheets and decorated with different religious symbols
and images and niches on the east, west and north walls are
provided and enshrined with a metal sculpture of Kartikeya,
Ganesha, and Goddess Parvati respectively and they are in folkish
style. In 1996 these sculptures made of silver were placed inside
the niches which earlier were in marble stones.
A silver sheet embossed with tracery has been provided on
walls of the garbhgriha in 2016. The walls are tracered in two
parts; the lower half with the motifs of (+) design while upper with
the motifs of Pushpa, Kalasha, trishula, swasthik, ardhachandra,
shankha, dhanushaBana, gada, kamandal, Nandi, chimta,
swastika dwaja, Simha and such many other religious symbols.
The ceiling has been interestingly incised with Rudrayantra
of 271 distichs. We were informed by the local Pujaris that this
silver ceiling has been provided in 1996 when earlier ceiling which
was of silver plaque inlayed with stones, were fallen. The yantra
was recreated in the same style as it was in original and installed
in the silver sheet and fixed slightly upward than the earlier one.
There are two silver lampstands (deepdaan) inside the
garbhagriha on either side of the Shivalinga which originally are of
stone but encased in brass. In 1994 brass encasing of both were
replaced with silver cladding.
1.7 A: SHIVALINGA, MODIFICATION, AND EFFECT
Shivalinga/ Jyotirlinga of Mahakal is considered as sthavara or
Achala and Swayambhulinga or Uttamottamalinga (most superior
linga). In the kamikagama, Swayambhulinga is described as one
which rose up and came into existence by itself and had existed
from time immemorial. As such even if such type of linga is
slightly damaged they need no jirnodhwaro (resetting up).
In the garbhagriha sandstone shivaling is directly rose at the
center and within the jaladhari (Saluka ) facing east. It is 67.5 cms
in height and 42.97 cms India within the jaladhari of 127 cms
India and 208 cms in length. In 28.12.1924 portion of Jalandhari of
silver which cost 12 and was stolen from the main temple,
another jaladhari of silver were installed in 20.9.1925 along with a
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brass parapet (Katra) around the shivalinga. In 1994 again brass
parapet donated by the devotee was replaced with silver. There is
no brahamasutra line found on the east surface of the shivalinga
rather in place of it, two semiround lines at the bottom are, in
such a way that one line comes within the other. This sort of line
appears natural not by the manmade. On the same side, the
depressions have occurred on the bottom and lower side. On the
west surface of shivalinga, depressions are noticed at the bottom
and lower side while on the upper side they are least. On the
north side, there is no depression noticed. On the south side.
whence devotees can have a view the Shivalinga from the hall,
there is no such depression noticed except a round delve on the
bottom occurred due to chipped off.
There is a tradition of sixtime worships performed in a day
inside the garbhogriha and it is called as Bhasma Arti, Datyodak,
Bhoga Arti, sandhya pooja, sandhya arti and shayana arti. These
worships the starting from early morning to night between 46
am, 7 7:45 am, 10 10:45 am, 5 5:45 pm, 7 7:45 pm and
10 10:45 pm respectively. The main ingredients offered in the
pooja are water, milk, curd, honey, ghee and sugar, liquid
perfume, a pest of sandalwood, pest of cannabis and flowers. In
the first morning pooja apart from these, the ash of dry cowdung
has sprinkled over the shivalinga at the last.
There are 37 families of Brahmins of Ujjain who are
responsible for conducting pooja in the temple in a traditionally
scheduled time and for each pooja, at least 3 to 5 Poojaris are
deployed at a time and in special occasion more are deployed.
B: MORNING WORSHIP AND MATERIAL USED IN THE WORSHIP
A group of Brahmins attends the Mahakal pooja at morning
hour wherein at least five Brahmins take part. Morning worship
of Lord Mahakal is very interesting. It starts at around 4 am daily
and for that devotees remains in the queue since early midnight
so that they could have a view of the god and pour a lota of water
over the Shivalinga.
At the beginning every devotee pours water over Shivalinga
one by one and then worship starts with chanting of mantras
and offering of doodh (milk), shakkor (sugar), dahi (curd), shahad
(honey), panchamrita (mixture of five], gangajal and at last itra
(liquid perfume) over the linga (liquid perfume) over the linga.
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After offering of all these stuff, shivalinga is cleaned by the water
then process of decoration begins followed by putting handful
pile of cooked rice on the top of the shivalinga then three
garlands one by one around the pile, preparing of forehead by
using pest of sandalwood, then pundarika, eyes, nose, lips etc.
The eyes are decorated by putting silver pieces and lips by
Vermilion, thus a face of Shiva is prepared towards the south
side of linga whence it can be viewed by devotees seating at the
south side hall. At least five Brahmins attend the pooja of them
one does this ornamentation, other perform other activities like
giving articles (samagri) to him, cleaning and bringing other parts
of the sanctum and providing other articles of worship (pooja
samagris) into the garbhagriha. After completing decoration, a
garment is worn over the Shivalinga in such a way that top and
sides the while face remains open. Then kundala, kapalamala
made of silver are worn followed by a chhatra, over the Shivalinga,
made of same metal. After that worship begins by offering dhoop
with a dhoopadan made of silver. After that Shivalinga is covered
by a garment and one of the Pujari made an announcement that
lady devotee may avoid to see the Shivalinga now, because they
were going to pour dry ash of cow dung (bhasma) over the
Shivalinga. , is a kind of indication of digamber (nude) form of
Shiva that's why lady devotees are called to veil. By doing so
poojari takes a bale of ash in his right hand and sprinkles over
the Shivalinga till it is finished and for that, it takes around five to
seven minutes while the whole process of pooja takes more than
one and half hour to finish.
At last, Shivalinga is cleared from the articles offered over
the linga and ornamentation and one by one Arti added earlier for
decoration is removed and it is cleaned again by the plain water.
Thereafter group of ladies of the city enter the garbhagriha to offer
milk over the lingo followed by other devotes, thus the order of
coming devotees and pouring milk over the redware begins whole
day except the pooja hours as referred above. In the pooja of 5
pm, the decoration of the lingo is again done almost in the same
pattern as stated above while in the rest four pooja at 7 am, 10
am, 7 pm and 10 pm decoration is not done.
As per the information provided by the temple poojari the
offering material used in the morning pooja includes; milk (5 litre)
curd (1 kg), ghee (1 kg), honey (1 kg), sugar (250 grams),
sandalwood paste (100 grams), cannabis (100 grams), liquid
perfume, abeer (100 gram), gulaal (100 grams), kanku (100
grams), rice (250 grams), garland (5 nos), flowers (1 kg), vilvapatra
(1008 nos), gangajal, gulabjal, juice of fruits (5 kg), coconut water
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(1 litre) and juice of sugarcane (litre). For the decoration of lingo
cannabis (1 kg), cashew nut (250 gram), almond (250 grams),
pistachios (250 grams) and chooroli (250 grams).
1.8 MAINTENANCE AND RESTORATION OF TEMPLE PREMISE
AND ACTIVITIES
As stated above, in the temple premise has numbers of
small and large temples corresponding to more or less in
architecture to each other. But except main temple and walls of
Briddhakaleshwar and Anadikalpeshwar temples, rest of the
shrines are reflected as modern temples due to modification,
crappy restoration and paintings are done in white, cream and
red colours.
At the interior of the main temple, silver cladding in the
garbhagriha, tiles in the walls of the passage leading to garbhagriha,
tiles in the walls of cells and niches, tiles on the first and second
floors have been provided. In the Anadikalpeshwar temple, the
roof of the sabhamandapa and mandapa are altered. In the
Anadikalpeshwar temple, the roof and walls of the mandapa have
been replaced with new one. In the Balavijay Hanuman temple
whole the interior and exterior walls and roof of the temple has
been replaced with modern vitrified tiles and painting and pillars,
arches of outer courtyard and ceilings with oil paintings. The
floor of the premise is constructed in red flog stones and level of
the floor of each temple arranged with steps. Besides that, some
new constructions have been also constructed between the old
temples and some are still going on in the premise.
Apart from the daily worship in the temple, there are other
activities being carried out and looked after by the Mahakaleshwar
Temple Management Committee. These activities are:
A: Daily cleaning of the temple premise, gaushala, Vedic samsthan,
Vikram Kirti Mandir, rasoi of the temple and surrounding area of the
temple premise. Cleaning is done by outsourcing.
B: Rasoi is maintained by the committee wherein about 5560 staff
is engaged in cooking and serving bhog to the visitors free of cost.
The Bhog is available from morning 11:00 am to night 11: 00 pm.
C: An another Laddu Prasad unit is also being run by the
committee, which cooked laddu as a prasad and sale to the
devotees every day,
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D: Temple committee runs two ambulances for giving medical
assistance to the peoples of nearby villages. One doctor and one
nurse have been also engaged to render free medical checkup and
medicines to the public.
E: One Shavavahan is kept for free carrying of dead bodies to
deliver at the cremation place for the funeral. It is a free service.
F: One bus is also run by the committee for carrying visitors to
show important religious places of Ujjain.
G: In the pravachan hall several programmes are organized in the
month of the Sravan month (Monday), Uma sanjhimahotsava in
Ashvin month which includes preaching by renowned kathakar,
shastriyo sangeet, and other cultural programmes like
bharatnatyamma etc. programme.
H: Temple Vedic Sansthan is established to educate students of
class VI to XlI on Vedic literature and Sanskrit. Presently about 6
teachers are educating 70 students in the Sansthan.
I: Temple committee is maintaining gaushala at Chintamani area
wherein about 100 cows are reared. The milk of the cow has been
used in the worship and other ceremonies of the temple.
CHAPTER 11
NATURAL (PHYSICO~CHEMICAL) WEATHERING OF STONE
WITH REFERENCE TO MAHAKAL JYOTIRLINGA
In this chapter, natural causes (PhysicoChemical) of weathering
of stone in the context of Jyotirlinga have been discussed in
general keeping in view the offerings (ingredients) used during the
prayers/rituals of the lingam.
Rituals including Bhasm (Ash) Aarti and Abhishekas on the
lingam starts right from the dawn of the day and continue
throughout with short intermittent breaks. A large number of
devotees visit the temple daily and offer many ingredients and
puja samagree as a part of the ritual with great religious belief
and Astha. The number of devotees increases appreciably on any
auspicious day or during festivals. These offerings due to their
physical or chemical characteristics may interact differently with
the minerals of natural stone (Ungam). This continuous
interaction, in the long run, may be responsible for appreciable
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damage to the substrate (Lingam).
2.1 General Chemical Characteristics of Some of the Ingredients:
It is important and imperative to consider the Normal
Chemical Characteristics of the ingredients which are generally
offered by the devotees in order to have a better understanding of
the physicochemical or GeoChemical Interactions of these
products with the stone of which this jyotirlinga is carved out.
These are briefly discussed below:
Milk: The milk is a biological fluid having following gross
composition:
Srl.
No
Name
of
Cattle
Water Fat ProteinLactoseAsh
1 Buffalo84.20 6.6 3.9 5.0 0.7
2 Cow 86.30 4.9 3.4 4.0 0.7
Physico Chemical analysis of Dahi in percentage
Homemade Desi Ghee:
The chemical composition of Homemade Pure Ghee:
Small chain saturated fatty acid (SFA): 12.5% Monosaturated fatty acid
(MUFA): 19.91% Long Chain fatty acids (SFA): 73.77% Mediumchain
Fatty acid (SFA): 20.17%
169
fat ProteinAsh Total LactosepH Total plate Total coli
dissolve count form count
solid (cfu/ml)
(10
7
)
3.60 3.27 ± 0.68
±
15.63 ±
4.73
±0.
5.05 7.68
±0.01
2.32
±0.11
±
0.43 0.02 0.1 01 ±
0.50 0.21
Colour flavor Texture M.P. Refractive Moisture %
Index Acidity
White Pleasant Granular 29
°C
1.4530 0.4 3.0
Honey:
Average Composition of floral and honeydew Honey is as below :
SN. Characteristics or Floral Honey (%) Honey Dew Honey (%)
Constitution
1 Granular Tendency
Few clumps of crystals
1/8 to ¼ each layer
Few clamps of crystals
1/16 to 1/8 inch layer
2 Colour Dark half of White Light of amber
3 Moisture 17.2 16.3
4 Laevulose 38.19 31.80
5 Dextrose 31.28 26.08
6 Sucrose 1.31 0.80
7 Maltose 7.31 8.80
8 High Sugar 1.50 4.70
9 pH 3.91 4.45
10 Free acidity 22.03 49.07
1 1 Lactones 7.11 5.08
12 Total acidity 29.12 54.88
13 Ash 0.16 0.73
SN Composition Average in percentage
1 Sucrose 8.18.7%
2 Reducing Sugar 36%
3 Oligosaccharides 0.06 0.6%
4 Polysaccharides 0.20.8%
(including Gums and
Dextrans)
Sugar Products:
Average Chemical Composition of Sugar Products is:
Sandal (Chandan):
Major compositions of sandalwood powder or Oil are: Alpha Santatot
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41.0 55% and Beta Santalol 41.0 55 %.
Bhang (Cannabis):
The buds and leaves of Cannabis are ground into a paste to prepare
Bhang. The Biodeterioration component is Cannabidiol and delta9
tetrahydrocannabinol.
These compounds believed to have Antifungal, Antibacterial and
Antibiotic property.
Abir or Abeer and Gulal:
If these products are not derived from natural flowers/herbs, may
contain synthetic dyes which are manufactured through the
chemical process most likely with nonstandard parameters and
hence the resulting colours may have toxic effects of abrasion on
sensitive objects.
Kanku (Kumkum):
It is either made from turmeric or any other local material. The
dried turmeric powder is mixed with slaked lime which turns the
rich yellow colour of the turmeric into a red colour. Modern
Kumkum (Sindoor) mainly uses Vermilion. Orangered pigment
vermilion is purified and powdered form of cinnabar or mercury
sulfide.
Fruits Juices:
On many occasions, devotees offer fruit juices of a different variety.
These fruit juices may have a different chemical composition and
pH value depending upon the nature of the fruit.
The pH value of some of the fruit juices is given below. This pH
value represents the acid or basic character of any solution.
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S No. Seasonal Fruits (Juice) pH
1 Cheekoo 5.36
2 Plums 3.604.30
3 Apple 3.30 4.00
4 Mango 3.404.80
5 Watermelon 5.185.60
6 Pineapple 3.204.00
7 Pomegranate 2.933.20
8 Papaya 5.206.00
9 Guava 3.64.10
10 Orange 3.304.19
11 Grapes 3.003.75
12 Sugarcane 5.26.8 (Crude Juice 3A)
13 Coconut water 1.5 5.2
Bhasm / Ashes of
Cow Dung Cakes:
We have been informed that ashes of Cow Dung Cakes are being used
during the Bhasm Aarti. Good quantity of ash is generally used every
day through sprinkling using a muslin cloth. Sample has been collected
and our preliminary analysis (XRF) (courtesy: Wadio Institute of
Himalaya Geology, Dehradun) revealed that the ash collected is quite
rich in Silica Content (around 63%), Oxide of Calcium (10.75%), oxide
of Magnesium, Aluminium, Phosphorous, Potassium, Iron and traces of
oxides of Titanium and Manganese. The solubility of the Bhasma in
water is almost negligible, however, in acid, it is sparingly soluble.
Microscopic observation of the bhasmas carried out in the
laboratories of the Director (Science) Dehradun revealed the
amorphouscrystalline character of the Bhasm. This
characteristic of the Bhasm expected to have abrasive action on
the soft objects.
Burning of Oil Lamps, Dhoop or Essence Sticks:
Oil lamps, Dhoop or essence sticks use carbon/charcoal
powder mixed with some oil and aromatic compounds. When
allowed to burn, thick smoke or fumes are emitted into the air
which generally creates the biofilm of black soot on the interior
wall surface of the temple. This may be aesthetically unpleasing
but more importantly, may induce a slow process of decay in the
material on which it deposits.
Note: Above analytical data represent the chemical composition and
general characteristics of the materials as per references available and
does not speak about the actual materials except Bhasm being used
172
during the rituals or about any sample of those materials.
2.2. NATURAL WEATHERING OF THE SANDSTONE
Sandstones are Clastic Sedimentary Rock and are susceptible to
decay if exposed to the natural environment or manmade adverse
deteriorating conditions. (Details of the formation/genesis of such
rocks and their geological/mineralogical properties are discussed
in Part 3 of the report).
While examining the Mahakal Jyotirlinga, its decay/
damage/deterioration due to the use of different ingredients used
during the daily ritual, it is necessary to refer to the Natural
weathering process of Sandstone of which this Jyotirlinga is
carved out.
It is very important, but also very difficult to assess where the
natural process of weathering of stone finishes and the damage
induced in the stone due to human activity starts to exacerbate
stone decay. To recognize the mechanisms of stone decay it is
necessary to examine the natural processes of weathering.
A: Water A Major Cause of Decay of Stone:
Stone decay depends on many factors. The wet climate is one of
the slipware factors of decay and ingress of water or moisture in
the core of the stone causes dissolution of active mineral cement
(Fe and Mg Carbonates]. The decay of feldspars and the swelling of
kaolinite further weaken the subsurface, the weak zone
encouraging the detachment of the surface patina, and granular
disintegration subsequently. As a result, the most common decay
types encountered include granular disintegration, pitting,
blistering, flaking, dissolution, the formation of fissures, and crust
formation. The precise character and the effects of, depending on
the mineralogy of the rock and durability of sandstone, therefore,
depends on its framework mineral composition and secondary
cement.
The environment of High humidity is equally injurious to stone as
it keeps the stone wet for a long time and triggers the process of
solubilization of minerals. Water may contain some soluble salts
and ingress of water in the matrix of the stone may carry these
salts within the stone. Wet and dry cycle thereafter cause
efflorescence of salt on the surface and may result in peeling off
of the top layer of the stone.
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B: Biological Decay or Biodeterioration of sand Stone:
The qualitative and quantitative development of Biological
Elements on stone and resulting process of Biological Decay is
strictly linked to environmental conditions as a whole.
The biological decay of stone may be induced as a result of Bio
GeoChemical interactions of the microbiological metabolites
secreted by different categories of macro and microbiological
species with the stone matrix. These biological species may be
Phototrophic or Nonphototrophic.
In the present context, nonphototrophic biological species have
a significant role to play as far as the decay of the Jyotirlinga is
concerned. The growth of the microorganisms of this category
and the action of their biological metabolites on the stone
depends on the following factors:
Light
Nutritive Factors
Environment to which Stone is exposed
However, macro and microbiological species may cause both
mechanical and chemical damage to the substrate but in the
present context, the chemically induced damage is important to
be considered. Some of the metabolites may be chelating and
some may have a different affinity of reaction to certain metals
elements.
As during the rituals and Abhishekas milk/ curd/ or any
other milk/ fruit product are used, the bacterial action is
generally expected on the stone if the fermented products rich in
certain species of bacteria are not washed away at regular
interval of time.
Different species of Lactobacillus bacteria are generally
present in milk products and under optimum conditions i.e.
suitable temperature and humidity, they start to multiply with
appreciable rate utilizing the lactose a good nutrient for bacteria
present in the milk products. During the process of multiplication
of the bacteria and consequent fermentation process, lactic acid
is expected to be released in different quantity in the solution. If
this fermented product is not discarded or utilized, it may result
in the formation of a byproduct of more acidic nature which may
be more injurious to the substrate. General Chemical reaction
involved in the process is given below.
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C12H22O11 + H20 C6H1206 + C6H1206
Lactose Galactose Glucose
C6H1206 OH COOH
Galactose Lactic Acid
Other species of bacteria (Sulphur and Nitrogen) are also
expected to grow in the stagnant medium rich in cellulosic
material and carbohydrate.
The large amount of flowers, Bilva Patra and other materials
offered by the devotees to the Jyotirlinga when not removed with
a periodical interval, attract bacterial action on these materials.
This bacterial action may also be injurious to the stone including
sandstone because mild acid products released through the
metabolic activities of microorganisms may react with the metal
ions of the sandstone very easily causing disintegration of the
substrate through leaching of the cementing material.
2.3. EXAMINATION OF THE MAHAKAL JYOTIRLINGA AND
GARBHGRIHA:
The Jyotirlinga was carefully examined by the team on 7
th
September 2017 after the Bhasm Aarti in order to make an
assessment with regard to its decay due to the use of different
materials during rituals. We have also been present during the
early morning Bhasm Aarti to record the process of this great
ritual and to have information about the ingredients generally
used during the puja.
A: General Observations of the Jyotirlinga:
There is only one entrance door on the Southern side for the
devotees to enter in the Garbhgriha and there is no room for
Parikrama around the Jyotirlinga. All the devotees offer materials
for rituals and do Abhishekas on the Jyotirlinga from the Western
and Northern side of the Garbhgriha. Jyotirlinga is fixed on a
circular pedestal of silver metal. It was not possible to visualize
the bottom portion of the Lingam and its depth under the floor
surface. The dimension of the lingam above the pedestal has
already been discussed earlier. As far as general conservation
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status of the Jyotirlinga is concerned, chipping of the polished
layer may be seen mostly on the eastern and western side having
caused depressions or pits. These characteristics may be seen
elsewhere also on the lingam.
The top of the Jyotirlinga appears to have good polish but on
the southern side the polish has been considerably damaged
and fine minerals of sandstone are exposed. The polish on the
top of the lingam is difficult to differentiate if it is the original
polish or has been developed and is maintained due to the
rubbing of the offering materials on the Lingam particularly on
the top portion during the Bhasm Aarti. A halfspherical
chipped off the mark on the stone is visible on the Southern
side and two parallel spherical marks originated from top of the
lingam moving downwards on the Eastern side.
The team has also witnessed that liters of water / Ganga jal are
offered by the devotees daily. Good quantity of milk, curd, a
small quantity of honey, ghee and other materials are also Katra
during the Bhasm Aarti including a lot of flowers and belpatra.
However, during the Abhishekas of Jyotirlinga, water/Ganga jal
is supposed to wash away the milk products and carbohydrates
but at many places especially on the bottom of the lingam, we
have observed thick accumulation of sticky, slimy fermented by
products of milk including carbohydrates. This accumulation is
expected to invite bacterial action if not, washed away regularly.
The bacterial action on the stone is, however, a slow process but
expected to cause damage to the substrate if not controlled in
time. The bacterial action on the flowers and other offering
materials may also invite fungal growth which in combination
with the bacterial action may be more harmful to the substrate.
Bhang is also offered to the Jyotirlinga during the Bhasm Aarti
but the bhang paste generally contains alkaloids and phenolic
compounds which are not expected to cause damage to the
stone. The presence of alkaloids and phenolic compounds rather
help to control biodegradation as these compounds also show
antibacterial and antifungal properties. The offering of Bhasm
and other powder offering materials are expected to have certain
chemical compounds, the rubbing of which on the lingo may
cause damage to the top layer of the stone. The offering of fruit
juices is also expected to be injurious to the stone because of their
low PH value and acidic characters.
The sealing of joints around the Jyotirlinga has been observed to
be severely damaged which may be a cause for infiltration of
offerings including water which may also lead to bacterial action
176
and moisture related damage to the stone.
The Marble flooring has also developed pits most likely a sign of
deterioration as a result of cumulative actions of all deteriorating
factors.
The walls of Garbhgriha are now covered with a silver metal sheet
which has lost original polish. As far as general ambiance of
Garbhagriha is concerned, the average temperature between 4 A.M
to 6 A.M has been recorded as 23.5
o
C and humidity as 78%. The
high percentage of the humidity is also important as retention of
moisture within the Garbhagriha creates favorable conditions for
biological activities. This also keeps the Jyotirlinga wet throughout
the day which is a negative feature as far as the decay of the
lingam is concerned.
B: Drainage Facility for the Disposal of the liquids and Solids:
The committee has observed that all the liquid and solid waste
are generally collected through drainage in a small pit outside the
Garbhagriha from where these are pumped out with the help of
the electrical motor.
It would be appropriate if this disposal system is improved so that
humidity level in the vicinity of the Garbhgriha is maintained
suitably and cleanliness may be ensured in the surrounding area.
(C) Electrical fittings in the Garbhgriha also demand major
renovation keeping in view the safety reasons and to make the
environment of the Garbhgriha more healthy and pleasing.
2.4 OTHER OBSERVATIONS:
Besides the Jyotirlinga and Garbhgriha of the Mahakal Temple,
following observations have also been made by the Committee
and the Committee feels that action may be taken for better
Conservation and Preservation of ancient structures and stone
figures. Periodical Inspections, Preventive conservation, and
Preservation may be ensured for such ancient stone figures of
religious importance.
CHAPTER III
177
GEOSCIENTIFIC STUDY OF LINGAM MAHAKALESHWER
UJJAIN, MP
3.1 Introduction:
In the proceeding of Court No 10 of Honorable Supreme court of
India, SLP Civil No 15459 of 2017.Upon hearing the counsel and
on the proposal submitted of Learned Additional Solicitor General
Shri Tushar Mehta, the Court made the following committee from
GSI and ASI comprise of Shri Hemraj Suryavanshi and Shri L.L.
Vishwakarma from GSI and Shri Madan Mohan Chouhan and Dr.
V.K. Saxena from ASI to study / survey/ analysis examine
Mahakaleshwer Jyotilingam of Ujjain (MP) and to prepare a report
containing the rate of which the deterioration in the size of
Lingam is taking place, if any, and the
measures/steps/precautions to be taken to ensure that this
deterioration/shrinkage of Lingam stops. The Committee also
study the other structures and the temple and submit what steps
are required to be taken to overall improve the entire premises
and for its preservation. The Committee makes a study and
reports inter alia as how much deterioration of Lingam has taken
place during the last threefour decades and what remedial steps
have to Sardar.
The committee Members of ASI and GSI jointly visited Ujjain on
7.9.2017 to assess the deterioration of Jyotirlingam of
Mahakaleshwer and to discuss the scope of the area of work for
the GSI and ASI team.
The GSI will carry out identification of rock type and its
composition of Jyotirlingam workout causes of deterioration in
the size of Jyotirlingam if any and suggest remedial measure. ASI
will study the archaeological and conservational aspect of the
temple premises, apart from carrying out chemical studies of
offering material to the Jyotirlingam
Geological Survey of India, Bhopal team has assessed the
limitation and accordingly methodology and instrumentation has
been selected for the detailed study of the lingam rock. Since
rock sample cannot be taken out from the Jyotirlingam for detail
studies, therefore, visual observation, as well as studies based on
nondestructive methods like remote sensing technique with an
instrument named Spectroradiometer, was adopted to identify the rock
and ascertain its composition. The instrument as well as two
expert scientists from Nagpur office were called. The Nagpur
178
team was reached Ujjain on 10/9/2017 and carried out his work
on 11/9/2017. The team has collected spectral signature of
lingam rock and matched with standard spectral signature
available with spectral library of CHQ of GSI, Kolkata.
Another nondestructive method by portable XRF studies of
lingam rock was felt necessary to cross checks the identification
made by the remote sensing technique. Therefore, one portable
XRF instrument along with one scientist was called from GSI,
Jaipur. Portable XRF machine was used to collect information on
12/09/2017 at 19 points in Jyotirlingam rock to study the
composition of Jyotirlingam rock in weathered part as well as on
nonweathered part of Lingam. Based on these studies remedial
measures ware worked out to reduce the extent of chemical
weathering.
Apart from this water sample, ash samples, samples of offering
items like bhang, cow dung were collected and analyzed to
ascertain the real cause of chemical weathering and to suggest
suitable remedial measure to improve the overall environment of
the temple premises ware suggested.
3.2 Observation and studies of Jyotirlinga:
3.2.1 Visual observation: The Shiva Lingam measuring 67 cm in
height and 47.97 cm in diameter situated over silver coated
Jaladhari of 208x127x30 cm in size. The lingam rock is pinkish
buff coloured orthoquartzite similar to quartzite of Vindhayans.
It is massive, hard and compact fine to medium grained, well
sorted arenaceous quartzite compose of quartz occasionally with
minor feldspar with the siliceous matrix. Majority of the grains
are quartz along with minor orthoclase giving light pinkish brown
shade to the lingam rock. The cementing material is siliceous with
minor ferruginous impurities.
There are traces of two bedding plane on the left side of the lingam
rock with a minor change in grain size and composition along
these plane. These bedding planes are visualized as an imprint in the
forms of a slightly depressed linear groovelike structure due to
differential weathering, but on the fresh surface exposed in pits
developed in lower part of lingam in the eastern side, these
imprint of bedding are not visible by naked eyes.
3.2.2 Studies based instrument:
179
(a) Spectral studies by Spectroradiometer:
On the basis of visual observation as well as studies based on
remote sensing technique with the instrument named
Spectroradiometer was adopted to identify the rock and ascertain
its composition. Two experts Geologist one from GSI Nagpur &
another from GSI Kolkata along with Spectroradiometer
Instrument have carried out studies of the lingam. The team has
collected spectral signature of lingam rock on 11/09/2017 and
matched these signature with the standard spectral signature of
rocks available in the library at GSI headquarter Kolkata. Total 10
no of spectral signature from a different part of the Shiva Lingam
was collected. This study also confirms that the Lingam rock is
quartzite, mainly composed of quartz, orthoclase and a minor
amount of mica in the matrix.
(b) Portable XRF studies:
Portable XRF studies of lingam rock were felt necessary to cross
check the identification made by visual observation as well as with
the remote sensing technique, therefore one Chemist from GSI
Jaipur was called to carry out a study of Lingam with Portable
XRF machine. Total 19 observation points were recorded by the
instrument on 12/09/2017 on lingam. The objective of this study
was to ascertain the approximate composition of lingam rock in
weathered part as well as on nonweathered part for confirmation
of its identification. Based on these studies remedial measures
were worked out to reduce the extent of chemical weathering. The
composition of Lingam rock worked by this instrument conform
its sedimentary nature with the presence of minerals of zirconium
and titanium in traces. Observation at 19 spots from the
instruments over the lingam rock was taken and the silica percent
ranges from 66 to 92.6% in 10 samples, out of which 7 spot
samples have more than 75% silica. It conforms that the rock is
orthoquartzite. Methodology and analytical result are enclosed as
AnnexureIII.
3.3 Water analysis by portable water analysis kit and ICPMS
Instruments:
Water analysis of the temple premises was carried out at seven
selected locations and it was found that the pH value of water
being used in the offering is high ranging from 8.4 to 8.7
Water is a universal solvent and dynamic medium which
180
necessitates its analysis. Ionic Product of pure water at 25°C is 1x
1O
14
.Water is composed of H
+
ion and OH
ion.
H2O H
+
+ OH
(Ionic product)
In pure water of the hydrogen ion (H
+
) and hydroxyl ion (OH
) is
equal. Hydrogen ion (H
+
) is responsible for acidity and hydroxyl
ion (OH
) is responsible for the alkalinity of medium i.e. if
hydrogen ion (H
+
) increases in the medium the acidity will increase
and if hydroxyl ion (OH
) concentration increases in the medium
than alkalinity will increase. The H
+
and OH
concentration is
measured in terms of pH value which is the negative logarithm of
H
+
concentration in water.
pH = Log [H
+
]
If any liquid is having pH less than 7 then it will be acidic, and if it
is more than, it will be alkaline/ basic in nature. pH 7 is
considered neutral.
Weathering of rock increases on exposure to acidic as well as, as
well as two expert scientists from Nagpur office, medium as
compared to neutral medium; due to increase in electrochemical
reaction. On exposure of high silica material to acidic medium
have no significant weathering effect but on exposure to
basic/alkaline medium weathering increases by following reaction:
SiO2 + 2KOH –> K2SiO3 + H2O
On the bacterial decomposition of any organic matter, carbon
dioxide gas (C02) releases with the rise of temperature and C02
react with water to produce carbonic acid (H2CO3)
CO2 + H2O –> H2CO3
Sansthan
Storage tank below lingam produced carbonic acid may react
with alkaline water having high pH and up to some extent
neutralization reaction may happen as:
H2C02+2KOH>K 2C02+H20+Heat
The pH of the tank is less than the water of Kotiteerth pond,
which is alkaline in nature and deleterious to the siliceous
material.
3.3.1 Ash analysis:
181
Three ash samples (1), from Bhasmaaarti of Jyotirlingam, (2),
cow dung used for making bhasma in mahakal temple and (3)
from Bhopal were analyzed for comparative studies.
Bhasma is being used in the bhasmaaarti range in pH from 9.07
to 10.2 in an aqueous medium having 7 pH; on the other hand,
the water of Kotiteerath pond is alkaline in nature. If alkaline
water is mix with bhosmo. , the combination will further enhance
pH of the medium and produce a more adverse effect on lingam
and increase rote of chemical weathering (Annexure IV c).
Use of cow ghee, milk, curd, honey etc is a regular phenomenon.
As a matter of fact pH of some of these articles might induce
deterioration but in view of the religious sentiments, the ageold
practices cannot be stopped, but the amount of the material may
be restricted in order to reduce further deterioration. The only
effect of these semisolids appears to be their pH value in general
pH value of cow milk ranges between 6.6 to 6.8, pH of curd 4.5 to
6.0, pH of coconut water (matured) will be 5.2 and honey may
range from 3.9 to 6.0 in pHs
3.4 Discussion and interpretation :
Since centuries the temple is a center of attraction to the Hindu
society. It was situated on the bank of kshipra River. The great
kshipra had changed its course in past it was flowing close to the
Mahakal temple and gradually shifted its course to the present
channel, now local people talk about guptkshipra which flows
below the kotiteerath pond and supplying water to the temple
premises since years.
3.4.1 Extent of weathering:
The lingam rock is hard and compact medium to finegrained
wellsorted orthoquartzite as seen in above photos from a
different direction. Majority of the grains are quartz along with
minor orthoclase giving light pinkish brown colour to the
Jyotirlingam rock. The cementing material is siliceous with
minor ferruginous impurities. It is hard and compact and
sustainable in the ideal natural environment. Close observation
of lingam reveals that there is the signature of chemical
weathering on the eastern and western side of the lingam.
Observation of day to puja pattern and offering of milk curd,
honey bhang etc. as well as the traditional ritual it is seen that
the effect of chemical weathering is more pronounced in the
eastern and western side of the lingam. The northern side (Front,
182
facing devotees) is devoid of any weathering pits. Similarly, the
back side is also least affected by the process of chemical
weathering. The causative factors for the localised development
of pits are the topic of research for our team. We have gone
through the ill side effect of offering material and the area
affected by the offering.
3.4.2: Causative factor:
(1) The ambiance and climatic parameter of Jyotirlinga room are
somewhat similar to a subtropical climatic condition where
alternate wet and dry spell is in practice. The offering supply's
bacteria through curd organic compound and lodging of these
compounds in pits enhance the process of attacking and
dissolving cryptocrystalline siliceous cement in the rock resulting
in loosing and removal of grains in this way the chemical
weathering is progressing.
(2) Silico is stable and inert in most of the form but the
cryptocrystalline form of silica is prone to attack by the alkaline
substance (like potassium hydroxide KOH) and will dissolve at
room temperature in alkaline solution as express in this reaction.
(reference from Google).
SiO2+2KOH=K 2Si03+H20
The formation of potassium metasilicate is the cause of chemical
weathering which is soluble in water the rate of reaction is very
slow but continuous with the passage of time.
Water quality of the Kotiteerath pond has pH value 8.4 which is
alkaline in nature, this water being offered continuously to
Lingam rock during Jalabhishek. Ash offered in the bhasmaarti
also contains alkaline compound and the pH value of ash in
aqueous media using pure water is 9.1 which is highly
deleterious to siliceous rock. During Bhashmaarti ash are poured
over the lingam and then after water of Kotiteerath are used in
jalabhishek which is reacting and producing causative factor to
enhance the chemical reaction stated above resulting in the form
of chemical weathering and removal of silica grains and
development of pits in lingam rock.
3.4.3: Weathering through ages:
Though the rate of weathering is very slow and cannot be
perceived by single observation as these pits have been spotted 60
183
years ago when Hon'ble first President of India. Shri Rajendra
Prasad and Hon’ble first Vice President and second President of
India, Shri Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan were spotted worshipping of
Jyotirlingam in Mahakal temple at Ujjain and the patch of Pits in
the eastern side of the Lingam has also been spotted during that
time. In a span of 60 years, these pits have increased at a slow
rate in number and size. (Photo no.58) Projecting the rate of
erosion there is no alarming situation at present but some
precautions are necessary as a remedial measure to protect the
lingam for posterity and manage the deterioration.
CHAPTER∙ IV
A: SUGGESTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
1.The Jyotirlingam rock has been identified as orthoquartzite
which is hard and compact and highly siliceous in nature in
which the silica content varies from 7592% analyzed by portable
XRF studies. Apart from visual observation spectral signature by
spectroradiometer were collected, matched with the standard
signature of orthoquortzite available in GSI, spectral lab.
2.The deterioration of lingam has Sandstones and increased
in last 4050 years as depicted in photos no 14 and 58; the
deterioration is continuous Sandstone can be managed with
remedial measures.
3.The water of temple premises used in Jalabhishek is highly
alkaline in nature the pH value ranges from 8.4 to 8.7 which is
reactive with the cryptocrystalline siliceous cementing material of
orthoquartzite at room temperature and causing deterioration in
Jyotirlingam.
4.The tradition of Bhasmaarti using ash of Cow dung (as per
temple pujaris) has pH value ranges from 9.07 to 10.20 in an
aqueous medium.
5.The ageold practices cannot be stopped but the amount of
material can be restricted/ minimized in order to reduce
deterioration. The quantity of offering as listed in Annexure I
contain milk, curd. into, honey, sugar, leaves, petals, and flowers,
accumulate in pits promote the growth of bacteria at room
temperature resulting in pH variation is also a cause of
deterioration.
184
6.Presence of major and minor oxide and trace elements of
rock enhance the electrical conductivity of the water to a high
level which can cause deposition of salt in pores/ pits and
chipping of material by chemical weathering.
7.Poor drainage sanitation and water spillage were also
spotted in the temple premises.
8.The Use of water (jal /Ganga Jal) throughout the day for
Abhishekas of the Jyotirlinga by the devotees should be restricted
to a minimum.
9.Use of milk and other milk products including ghee and
honey should be minimized to a small quantity and made
symbolic in nature to satisfy the religious requirement.
10.Rubbing of Jaggary / Sugar powder and other powdery
material on the Jyotirlinga may be restricted/ minimized.
11.Use of a lot of flowers / Bel Patra etc. may also be made
symbolic as the use of such huge materials keep the Jyotirlinga
wet all the time and hinders natural breathing of the stone which
is essential for the good state of the Jyotirlinga.
12.Use of metal buckets, offerings pots, and other utensils
should be replaced with wooden / Good Plastic materials in order
to avoid mechanical abrasions.
13.lf possible, entry of devotees in the Garbhgriha may be
limited by making a management plan. Devotees may be
permitted for short duration at a time to avoid the crowd in
grabhgraha. This is important as there is only single entry door
which is also used as an exit door.
14.Every effort should be made to keep the Garbhgriha dry
and clean including the passage and surroundings.
15.All the damaged area of marble floorings and sealing of
joints etc. should be repaired to avoid water percolation through
the damaged area.
16.1f possible provision may be made for air circulation in the
Garbhagriha.
185
17.Arrangements for disposal of waste may be improved and
should be made more effective.
18.Scientific / Chemical treatment of any stone object with
periodical inspection and preventive conservation may, however,
help to preserve the object for quite long time but in case of
Jyotirlinga it may not be appropriate to consider such treatment
as the treatment of the Jyotirlinga may not be acceptable to the
common people because of their great faith and religious beliefs.
Only preventive conservation methods may be helpful to keep the
Jyotirlinga in the best of its conservation state.
19.Sincere efforts should be made to preserve the originality of
the main temple and other structures of historical importance in
the premises. Modern materials should be avoided for general
maintenance.
20.The antiquarian remains of the premise including the main
temple of Mahakal can be classified mainly into four groups; a:
Some stone sculptures in loose and fixed nature assigned to 7th
8
th
century AD, b: Some sculptures of 11
th
12
th
century AD, c:
Main temple and other subsidiary shrines of 18
th
century and d:
Other remains viz wooden box, copper drum, seating benches and
some metal work etc of 19
th
20
th
century. Numbers of stone
sculptures placed in the temple premise at different places like
embed in the walls, on the floors, and in the abandoned rooms
needs to be properly maintained, documented, identified and
displayed in a proper place so that they could be preserved for
future generation and could be in use of researchers and students
of art and architecture.
21.Some unwanted restoration works have been done on the 1
st
and 2
nd
floors of the Mahakal temple by laying of modern tiles on
the floor. This sort of flooring does not match in any way with the
ambiance and old architecture of the temple. On the north and
south sides of the temple, iron scaffoldings are placed attached to
the main temple. We were told that the scaffoldings are provided
for installing iron stairs for climbing of the visitors to the temple
on the top floor to worship Chandranageshwar. On this floor, a
sculpture of Chandranageshwar with his consort is placed inside
a niche covered with a glass window and devotees or visitors
would be allowed to reach there. During our visit, we were
informed that earlier temporary arrangement was made there by
186
way of installation of iron stairs in the occasion of Nagapanchami
when lacs of visitors used to visit here. Providing of this sort of
installation is not only the eyesore in the ancient temple premise
but it would lead a new tradition in future and put an adverse
effect on the old temples when such a huge crowd of devotees will
reach the top floor. Therefore, it should be avoided for the safety
of the public and to maintain the ambiance of the temples.
22. While the campus consisting of old temples have been
reflecting with white, cream and red colours as outer walls and
shikhara of almost all the temples are painted with these colours
and flooring with tiles and red stones. Beside that some new
constructions have Abhishek the carried out. This sort of
constructions and development in an ancient heritage place
should be avoided and proper conservation should be carried out
with the help of conservators and expert of ancient architecture.
23.The significance of Mahakal temple and Ujjain is not only
for the people of Ujjain and Madhya Pradesh, rather for the people
of the whole country too, therefore keeping this thing in mind, it
is inevitably required to develop this most religious and heritage
sire with proper care and maintenance so that its cultural and
tangible fabric could not be disturbed. Presently there are
numbers of the temples inside the temple premise probably of the
same period as the Mahakal temple but these temples are
conserved in crappy manner by adding eyesore paintings on the
walls and some weird addition to the old structures. Some new
constructions are done and some other constructions are
presently going on there. Therefore, it is suggested that no new
construction may be allowed within the temple premise and
restoration and development of the old temples and structures of
the premise may be rectified and restored with the assistance of
Archaeological Conservators. Apart from the various activities as
referred above, Temple committee can create a heritage cell for
maintenance and restoration of the old temples and structures
inside the premise.
24.It is stated earlier that Ujjain is a very ancient city and
there are numbers of old structures, temples, ponds, houses,
platforms nearinfrared etc around the temple premise still in
extent, these old structures ore the valuable heritage and integral
part of temple premise, needs to be identified and restored
accordingly. If it is possible for the state government, 500 m all
around the temple premise can be preserved with old structures
187
and removed from the modern constructions. Wherever open
space is found, that can be landscaped and developed so that its
religious ambiance could be maintained and preserved.
B: REMEDIAL MEASURES:
1.Water quality of the temple premises may be improved;
special care should be taken to water used in Jalabhishek ritual,
potable water range in pH from 6.8 to 7.2 are ideal for
jalabhishek and cleaning of the Jyotirlingam.
2.Ash used in bhasmaarti ranges in pH from 9.07 to 10.2 in
aqueous media is one of the causes of deterioration in lingam,
the ritual can be minimized to symbolic in nature so that the
deterioration can be minimized. The lingam should be thoroughly
cleaned after bhasmaarti and ensured that no trace of ash
remains over it, then only Jalabhishek may be allowed.
3.The ambient temperature of the lingam room (Grabhgrah
may be 1720 degree Celsius and efforts may be made to keep
dryness in most of the time of the lingam to minimize the rate of
chemical reaction, bacterial and fungal growth.
4.Use of ghee, milk, curd, honey, etc. is a regular item of
offering since ages, therefore, cannot be stopped, but the
quantity and quality of material may be minimized in order to
minimize the deterioration.
5.Proper disposal of temple garbage may be arranged and
insured that it should not contaminate the kotiteerath pond.
Improvement in sewer line and sanitation may also be managed
to keep the premises neat and clean. An arrangement may be
made to stop draining off rain and used water into kotiteerath
pond.
6.Periodical monitoring of all these remedial measures is also
essential to check further deterioration and to maintain
garbhagriha and Jyotirlingam and to maintain its natural
ambiance.
ANNEXURE I
WORSHIP SCHEDULE AND OFFERING MATERIAL OF
JYOTIRLINGAM, MAHAKALESHWER TEMPLE, UJJAIN
188
TIME EVENT
04:00 AM Opening of Temple door
04:00 to 04: 15 AM
Temple cleaning followed by an offer of
Panchamrit (Milk, Curd, Ghee, Honey
and Sugar)
04: 15 to 04:40AM
Jalabhishek by Pilgrims (Katitirathpond
water), 15 to 20 minutes.
04:40 to 05:00 AM
Abhishek by Priest (Material list
attached).
05:00 to 05:15 AM Cleaning and Drying by dry cloths
05:15 to 05:30 AM Decoration.
05:30 to 05:35 AM
Bhasamaarti (Ash worship) by ash and
bearing ornaments.
06:00 to 6:45 AM
Again Jalabhishek by pilgrims, water
offered.
06:45 to 07:00AM
Entry closed and cleaning of the temple.
07:00 to 07:15 AM Worship of other deities
07: 15 to 07:30 AM ChandanAbhishekafter cleaning.
07:30 to 07:45 AM Aarti
07:45 to 09:45 AM
Again Jalabhishek by pilgrims (using
Ujjain Municipal Supply water)
09:45 to 10:00 AM Cleaning.
10: 00 to 10:45 AM Chandanabhishek and Bhogaarti.
10: 45 AM to 04:45 PM
MilkWater Abhishek by Pilgrims and
worship
05:00 to 05:20 PM
nearinfrared started by panchamrit
Abhishek.
05:20 to 05:45 PM Decoration by Bhang and Chandan.
05:45 to 07:00 PM Dry worship.
07:00 to 07:45 PM Evening Milk Bhog.
07:45 to 10:30 PM
Open to Public for Worship with flowers
and belpatra
10:30 to 11: 00 PM Sayan Aarti (Sleeping worship).
ANNEXURE II
189
SPECTROSCOPY STUDY OF JYOTIRLINGAM OF
MAHAKALESHWER TEMPLE, UJJAIN, MADHYA PRADESH
By: Prem Babu, Director and Uday Kumar Ghosh, Sr. Geologist
Spectroscopy is the study of light as a function of wavelength
that has been emitted, reflected or scattered from solid, liquid
or gas (Clark, 1999). Reflectance and emittance spectroscopy of
natural surfaces are sensitive to specific chemical bonds in
materials, whether solid, liquid or gas. Moreover, spectroscopy
has the advantage of being sensitive to both crystalline and
amorphous materials, unlike some diagnostic methods, like X
ray diffraction (Clark,1999). Spectroscopy's other main
advantage is that it can be used for near (e.g. in the laboratory)
to far away (e.g. to look down on the Earth, or up at other
planets) objects. Laboratory and field spectroscopic studies of
rocks/minerals/other materials help in understanding the
entire realm of variability in spectral signature of particular
rocks/minerals/other materials. Reflectance spectra have been
used for many years to obtain compositional information of the
Earth surface. Therefore, spectroscopy is being used
increasingly in geoscientific studies to detect the mineralogical
composition of rocks/minerals of earth surfaces and other
planets of the universe.
Different types of minerals absorb and scatter incident energy
in the different wavelength region. When we examine the
maxima and minima of spectral reflectance curve, minima are
caused by molecular absorption and we call these as
absorption features or absorption bands. Absorption of a
particular mineral rock depends upon its atomic structure and
chemical composition. Absorption of a particular object
depends upon the electronic and vibrational process. The
electronic processes are very sensitive invisible to near infrared
(VNIR) region whereas vibrational processes are sensitive in
shortwave infrared (SWIR) region. The VNIR region is very
important to detect ferric & ferrous iron, manganese, copper,
cobalt, chromium, nickel etc., whereas SWIR region is useful in
detection of hydroxyl bearing minerals, carbonate, phosphate,
borates, arsenates, vanadates, silicates etc, The hydroxyl (OH)
is generally bound to Mg, Feor AI. The water molecule (H20)
gives rise to overtones as seen in the reflectance spectra of H20
bearing minerals. The first stretches of OH occur at 1.4 um:
and the combination of HOH bond with the OH stretches are
found near 1.9 um. The OH group commonly occurs in
190
multiple crystallographic sites of a specific mineral and is
attached to metalions. Thus, a combination of metal OH plus
OH stretch occurs at 2.22.3 um and is the diagnostic of
mineralogy. Spectroscopic study of Mahakaleshwer Lingam was
carried out using highend portable field spectroradiometer to
know the compositional information of the surface of Lingam at
Ujjain. Madhya Pradesh. Spectroradiometer used in the present
study has a very good signal to noise ratio (SNR), with finer
spectral resolution and spectral interval suitable for detecting
the subtle absorption features characteristic of the constituent
minerals of the rock exposed on the surface under
examination. It detects the energy reflected by the surface
material. Spectra Vista Corporation (SVC HR 1024i)
spectroradiometer used in the present study has two types of
detectors one 512 element Si photodiode detector operative in
3501000 nm and two separate, In Go As photodiodes operative
in 10002500 nm.
Collection of Spectral Signature using 'SVC 1024i'
Spectroradiometer. Before taking the spectral measurement of
Mahakaleshwer Lingam the entire area was properly cleaned
and dried (using drier) to obtain maximum reflectance from the
field of view. The rest of the area was covered with dark cloth to
avoid unwanted reflectance from the surroundings.
Measurement Procedure:
The SYC HR 1024i spectroradiometer has spectral range of
3502500 nanometer (nm), with finer spectral resolution of
3.5nm @ 3501000,9.5 nm @1000 1850nm and 6.5nm @
1850 2500. The instrument was optimized properly before
taking a spectral measurement. Measurement of the radiance
of a white reflector (reference panel) is also essential before
initiating the measurement, as it helps in recording the
irradiance of the illuminator for a reflectance measurement.
The light source for illuminating (using a tungsten halogen
source lamp) the sample was kept at approximately 45° angle
and measurement was token by pointing sensor (fore optics as
well as fibre optics) vertically over the sample to make the
phase angle of 45° (phase angle corresponds to the angle
between the illumination source and measurement point) so
that the measurements which speak about the volume of
reflected energy emanated from the rock (characteristic of the
internal chemistry) are collected and it would reduce the
specular reflection from the object which is dominantly the
191
result of surface smoothness. The 40 optical lens was used
while taking the spectral signature of the Lingam.
The following necessary steps were taken into consideration while
making the measurements.
5.Source of the illumination is well calibrated so that there
should be minimal fluctuation in irradiance in successive
measurement.
6.Precautions were taken so that there is no physical
blockade of light and shadow of the person who is taking
measurements does not fall over the sample.
7.The sample should be larger in dimensions than the ground
sample diameter (GSD) of foreoptics.
8.Data was saved in personal digital assistance (PDA) and
downloaded into the computer for further analysis.
Processing of Spectral Curve:
Spectral signatures thus collected is processed using SVC HR
1024i software to remove the overlap at the junction of visible
(VIS) & near infrared (NIR) and NIR & SWIR region and remove
higher order kinks to derive the curve with characteristic "spectral
features". The spectral file format generated in the SVC 1024i
spectroradiometer instrument is saved as sig file format which
stores wavelength and full width at half maximum (FWHM) values
(spectral resolution) and other necessary information. After pre
processing the signature is exported to ENVI software for
generation of spectral library. The ENVI software retrieves the
wavelength data and FWHM value from the spectral reflectance files
and appends it to the header file created for each spectral
signature. ENVI has a spectral library builder tool to generate
new spectral library builder tool to generate a new spectral
library from a variety of spectra sources, including ASCll files,
other spectral libraries, ROI means, spectral profiles and plots.
The collected spectra are automatically resampled to an input
wavelength space using FWHM information. After feeding all the
necessary information finally, the rock library is generated by
using lab spectra.
The spectral signature of Mahakaleshwer lingam, Ujjain, MP:
192
The spectral signature was collected at different faces of
Mahakaleshwer Lingam like near top, back, left, right, primary
bedding plane, pitted surface etc. For each location number of
measurements using foreoptics as well as fiber optics were
taken and were later averaged to get the final spectra.
Interpretation
The spectral signature of left and right side shows absorption at
2.19 µm indicating presence of phyllosilicate minerals (AIOH
bearing minerals) and absorption in VNIR (O.568 µm) region is
due to iron oxide stains. But the fore optic spectra show high
reflectance in NIR as compared to fiber optic spectra that is
possibly due to the presence of some organic material on the
surface and also due to the differential field of view of spectral
measurement. The combination of HOH bend & OH stretches is
found at 1.93 µm that indicate the presence of water molecule in
the sample. The additional overtone feature of OH stretches has
been noticed at 1.4 µm.
The spectra of near top & back side show absorption at
2.19 µm that indicate the presence of phyllosilicate minerals (AI
OH bearing minerals) and absorption in VNIR (O.543 µm) region
is due to iron oxide stains. But the fore optic spectra show high
reflectance in NIR as compared to fiber optic spectra that are
again due to the presence of some organic material in the surface and
also due to the differential field of view of spectral measurement.
The combination of HOH bend & OH stretches is found at 1.93 µm that
indicate the presence of water molecule in the sample. The additional
overtone feature of OH stretches has been noticed at 1.4 µm.
The fiber optic spectra of all pitted surface show absorption at
2.19 µm indicate the presence of phyllosilicate minerals (AIOH
bearing minerals, and absorption in VNIR region is due to iron
oxide stains. The variation of absorption depth at VNIR has been
noticed which varies from 0.565 to 0.731 µm and this is due to
the presence of differential iron oxide stains at the different pitted
surface. The combination of HOH bend & OHˉ stretches is
found at 1.93 µm that indicate the presence of water molecule in
the sample. The additional overtone feature of OHˉ stretches has
been noticed at 1.4 µm.
From overall observation, it is found that most of the diagnostic
absorption occurs at 2.19 µm and absorption in VNIR region is
possibly due to differential iron oxide staining at different
193
surfaces. No other diagnostic absorption due to other alteration
mineral was noticed.
All the spectral signatures were analysed with existing rock
library of GSI as well as USGS mineral spectra and it the that the
spectral signatures fit well with quartzite based on its absorption
features in SWIR region.
Continuum removed (continuum or background is the overall
albedo of the reflectance curve) spectra of Lingam & USGS
phyllosilicate mineral shows diagnostic spectral absorption at
2.19 µm which confirms the presence of phyllosilicate mineral.
Summary: Based on the spectroscopic study of the lingam of
Mahakaleshwer temple Ujjain, MP, it can be summarised that
the spectral signatures of the surface of lingam show presence
of quartz with a minor amount of phyllosilicates. Beside
presence of some organic matter at a few locations could also
be noticed.
References: Clark, R.N. 1999; Spectroscopy of Rocks and
Minerals, and Principles of spectroscopy(pp3),
http://speclab.cr.usgs.gov .
XRF STUDY OF JYOTIRLlNGAM OF MAHAKALESHWER
TEMPLE, UJJAIN
The XRF study of the Jyotirlingam of Mahakaleshwar temple,
Ujjain was carried out using portable SkyrayExplorer 5000 ED
XRF instrument.
ED (Energy Dispersive) Xray spectrometer is based on the
principle of Xray fluorescence (XRF) which is a nondestructive
technique. The atoms, illuminated by highenergy Xray, emit X
ray spectra with certain characteristics, the wavelength of which is
related to the atomic number of an element. Therefore, by
determining the wavelength, we find the composition of the
sample and start the qualitative analysis; by measuring the line
intensity and comparing with a known standard, we get to know
about the content of the element and start the quantitative
analysis. The Explorer5OOO instrument consists of mainly three
systems: excitation, optics and detector system. The excitation
system, including a miniature Xray source, filter, and collimator,
is used to generate Xrays. Xrays irradiating to the sample
194
produce Xray fluorescence with sample characteristics,
transforming into voltage signals through the detector, the signal,
after being amplified and data acquisition, is sent for computer
processing to get the required test data. The detection system
mainly includes i) AMP and digital multichannel data acquisition
system, ii) Embedded PDA Equipped with dedicated Xray
fluorescence analytical software. The detection limit is down to
ppm level.
The XRF study of the lingam was carried out by directly placing the
nosepiece carefully on the Lingam surface by holding the
instrument in hand. The surface of the lingam was more or less
rough at all points scanned using the is. On each side of the
lingam, we started to analyze from the bottom position to the top
position. The total scanning time for each point was 60 seconds.
For qualitative analysis of the elements in the sample, whether it is
a natural one or in a strange shape, this instrument can be directly
used for a test. But for accurate quantitative analysis, we need to
do some sample processing. There is some inherent limitation
which may lead to measurement error; rough surface,
inhomogeneity in composition etc.
APPROXIMATE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF LINGAM ROCK BY
PORTABLE XRF INSTRUMENT
FRONT FACING NORTH BACK FACING NORTH
SPEC
NAME
LING
AM-4
LINGAM
– 3
LINGAM
– 2
LINGAM
– 1
BOTTOM
LINGAM
– 6
(CEMENT
ING
PORTION
OF THE
BASE)
LING
AM –
BAC
K5
LINGAM
– BACK4
(TOP
MOST)
LINGAM
– BACK3
LING
AM
BACK
2
LINGA
M
BACK1
(BOTT
OM
MOST)
Mg O
(%)
0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.2208 0.00000.0000
5.87686.1319 0.0000 0.7162 5.3121 8.083
1
6.3068 5.7163 11.731
9
3.4060
SiO 2
(%)
92.627
9
89.454337.148013.384616.7793 88.73
00
74.774174.621781.186
2
16.0813
P (%)0.56680.7992 0.5796 0.4026 0.8395 0.335
8
0.4442 0.3337 0.34350.2922
As (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Se (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Rb (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Sr (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Y (%)0.00200.0025 0.0014 0.0014 0.0000 0.001
7
0.0010 0.0008 0.00100.0000
195
Zr (%)0.01090.0328 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.009
5
0.0252 0.0142 0.00000.0000
Nb (%)0.01910.0195 0.0080 0.0100 0.0104 0.018
6
0.0119 0.0144 0.01380.0096
Mo
(%)
0.08890.0903 0.0427 0.0481 0.0202 0.085
6
0.0669 0.0599 0.08140.0281
Pd (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Ad (%)0.01730.0178 0.0164 0.0165 0.0101 0.017
4
0.0170 0.0175 0.01740.0155
Cd (%)0.02340.0513 0.0427 0.0485 0.0000 0.061
3
0.0305 0.0337 0.05680.0120
Sn (%)0.10470.1021 0.1033 0.1033 0.1021 0.102
8
0.1029 0.1031 0.10270.1036
Sb (%)0.00000.0080 0.0016 0.0000 0.0072 0.011
1
0.0000 0.0046 0.00420.0000
Ba (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Hf (%)0.00020.0001 0.0001 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0003
Ta (%)0.00000.0000 0.0016 0.0018 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
W (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Au
(PPm)
0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
P2O3
(%)
1.29821.8303 1.3275 0.9220 1.9228 0.769
0
1.0173 0.7643 0.78680.6691
S (%)0.00000.0211 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.2173 0.0905 0.05210.0000
SO4
(%)
0.00000.0634 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.6519 0.2714 0.15630.0000
K (%)0.11040.5955 0.3539 0.4735 0.4665 0.839
5
0.6304 0.3445 0.22750.3164
K2O
(%)
0.13330.7190 0.4273 0.5717 0.5632 1.013
6
0.7611 0.4160 0.27470.3821
Ca (%)0.47312.5745 1.5076 1.1806 6.1020 1.551
6
1.7748 1.5767 1.51070.1713
CaO
(%)
0.54412.9606 1.7337 1.3577 7.0172 1.784
3
2.0410 1.8132 0.1970
Ti (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
TiO
(%)
0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
V (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Cr (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Mn
(%)
0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0009 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Fe (%)0.07540.0991 0.0421 0.0274 0.0496 0.152
2
0.1598 0.1452 0.13130.0277
Fe2 O3
(%)
0.10770.1415 0.0602 0.0392 0.0709 0.217
4
0.2283 0.2074 0.18750.0396
Co (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
196
Ni (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Cu (%)0.00310.0000 0.0017 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0070 0.0159 0.01010.0000
Zn (%)0.00000.0000 0.0229 0.0638 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0071 0.09730.0000
Hg (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Pb (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0711 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0011 0.00410.0000
Bi (%)0.00000.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.000
0
0.0000 0.0000 0.00000.0000
Peak 1653.
0000
1653.
0000
1647.
0000
1649.
0000
1655.
0000
1655.
0000
1652.
0000
1651.
0000
1649.
0000
1645.
0000
Cps 17391.
0000
18507.
0000
15614.
0000
15688.
0000
12188.
0000
1775
4.
0000
16378.
0000
15787.
0000
16737.
0000
13791.
0000
Count52249
6.
0000
555942.
0000
468960.
0000
471219.
0000
366273.
0000
5332
49.
0000
491980.
0000
474277.
0000
50261
4.
0000
414329.
0000
APPROXIMATE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF LINGAM ROCK BY
PORTABLE XRF INSTRUMENT
LEFT FACING WEST RIGHT FACING EAST
SPEC
NAM
E
LINGAM
- LEFT 5
(TOP
MOST)
LINGA
M – 4
LINGA
M – 2
LINGA
M – 1
BOTTO
M
LINGA
M –
RIGHT5
(TOP
MOST)
LINGA
M –
RIGHT6
LINGA
M –
RIGHT4
LINGA
M –
RIGHT2
LINGAM
-RIGHT1
(BOTTO
M MOST)
Mg O
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00003.77270.00000.00000.00000.0000
0.0000 3.46127.51091.96633.34071.90811.44157.20042.7364
SiO 2
(%)
43.560768.992377.250445.910668.134343.969744.846266.240616.6197
P (%)0.3531 0.81930.74400.72900.20990.68190.39620.60410.5817
P2O
3%
0.8087 1.87661.70391.66970.48081.56170.90741.38361.3322
S (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
SO4
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
K (%)0.2790 0.98320.64340.85250.45241.21420.05890.92660.2368
K2O
(%)
0.3368 1.18720.77691.02940.54621.46600.07111.11880.2860
Ca
(%)
0.7907 1.13990.14930.00000.21150.40310.56220.25490.1753
CaO
(%)
0.9093 0.16080.17170.00000.21150.40310.56220.25490.1753
Ti (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00830.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
TiO2
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.01390.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
V (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Cr (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Mn 0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
197
(%)
Fe (%)0.0396 0.05970.02440.07400.06220.08220.02670.05830.0299
Fe2
O3(%)
0.0566 0.08520.03490.10570.08880.11750.03810.08330.0427
Co(%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Ni (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Cu
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Zn
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
As
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Se (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Rb
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Sr (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Y (%) 0.0000 0.00200.00000.00230.00090.00270.00000.00130.0000
Zr (%)0.0000 0.02310.00020.03170.00000.01240.00000.00400.0001
Nb
(%)
0.0136 0.01450.01210.01500.01130.01440.01250.01390.0073
Mo
(%)
0.0468 0.07330.03820.08200.03900.06510.03900.08180.0361
Pd
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Ag
(%)
0.0155 0.01690.01470.01710.01620.01730.01550.01680.0144
Cd
(%)
0.0160 0.04150.02040.01340.04740.04710.01250.00000.0091
Sn
(%)
0.1033 0.10100.10240.10210.10270.10410.10320.10360.1024
Sb
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.02430.01360.00760.0000
Ba
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Hf
(%)
0.0000 0.00070.00000.00030.00000.00040.00010.00030.0003
Ta (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
W (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Au
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Hg
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Pb
(%)
0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Bi (%)0.0000 0.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.00000.0000
Peak1657.
0000
1650.
0000
1651.
0000
1644.
0000
1653.
0000
1655.
0000
1652.
0000
1650.
0000
1650.
0000
Cps 14256.
0000
16559.
0000
13441.
0000
17087.
0000
15057.
0000
17596.
0000
13714.
0000
16334.
0000
13452.
0000
Count428321.
0000
497363.
0000
403741.
0000
513179.
0000
452296.
0000
528369.
0000
411934.
0000
490609.
0000
404073.
0000
CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF WATER SAMPLES FROM
MAHAKALESHWAR TEMPLE PREMISES, UJJAIN
198
S.
N
o.
Ref.
No
Sampl
e
locati
on/
time
pHTempCon
d. at
25*
C
µs/
cm
TDSSAL
INI
TY
CO
3
HCO
3
Total
hardnes
s
CaMgClN
a
KNo3PO
4
SO
4
Unit (*C) ppmSPUppmppm ppm pp
m
ppmpp
m
pp
m
pp
m
ppmpp
m
pp
m
1UJT/0
1/w/2
017
Pot
above
linga
m @
5.15
PM
7.7828.528705220.46NIL274.5320 7615.617067116 0254
2UJT/0
2/w/2
017
Pot
below
linga
m @
5.15
PM
8.2027.48864518046Nil317 330 7614.41257011120350
3UJT/0
3/w/2
017
Kotite
erth@
1.45
PM
8.4129.88173
6
10410.9566353.8500 6839.620512
0
12
8
1400.773
4UJT/0
4/w/2
017
Rudra
sagar
@
5.00
PM
8.7029.288495090.4518244 270 4020.415010
3
1905424
5UJT/0
5/w/2
017
Shipr
a
River
@
8.45
PM
8.3229.059205330.496 292.8340 8415.6135731119448
6UJT/1
A/M
W/17
Lalad
hariw
ater@
3.45
PM
7.628.06173
9
10430.96NILNIL 920 36
0
2.428514
0
21
9
18016194
7UJT/2
A/M
W/17
Nirma
lya @
3.45
PM
6.228.71134
9
8090.73NILNIL 660 20
0
19.220092747514101
ISO
10500
standa
rd
value
6.5- 8.5
500 200 300 753025020
0
(
W
H
O)
50 200
TRACE ELEMENT ANALYSIS IN WATER SAMPLES
FROM MAHAKALESHWER TEMPLE, PREMISE
All value in ppb
199
Sample
Name
19997-I 19997-2 19997-319997-419997-5 19997-6 19997-7
Ref NoUJT/03/W/2
017
UJT/1A/WM/20
017
UJT/1B/
WM/201
7
UJT/4/
W/2017
UJT/01/W/
2017
UJT/2/W/2
017
UJT/05/W/
2017
Locatio
n
KotiTirath
Pond
MahakalJal
adhari base
Tank-
2,Offere
d Water
RudraSa
gar Lake
Municipal
Water
before
offering
Jaladhari
water after
jalavishek
Shipra
River,
Ramghat
Be <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Sc 2.34 1.19 1.17 <0.7 <0.71 0.70 0.7
V 90.29 13.07 <5 10.17 11.53 11.18 11.26
Cr <4 23.43 26.31 <4 <4 <4 <4
Mn <0.5 90.75 237.162.26 268.51 269.42 37.07
Fe 519.39 1991.71 1448.52164.02299.64 265.58 259..34
Co 0.12 0.74 0.72 0.34 0.64 0.63 0.06
Ni <0.5 5.75 2.90 <0.5 <.0.5 <.0.5 0.0<
Cu 1.23 13.91 <0.5 <0.5 17.56 10.55 <0.5
Zn <0.2 812.03 219.970.2 16.40 0.69 <0.2
Ga <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
As 12.98 5.96 2.93 4.78 2.69 2.66 2.64
Se <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100 <100
Rb 13.47 202.15 65.19 3.48 6.43 6.47 6.21
Sr 968.51 574.94 432.10253.36369.56 376.06 405.15
Y <0.1 0.11 0.04 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01
Cd <0.01 0.10 0.06 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01
Cs 0.08 0.59 0.19 <0.2 <0.2 0.02 0.02
Ba 36.11 73.69 83.91 25.74 51.77 51.51 55.32
La <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03
Ce <0.04 0.40 0.13 <0.04 <0.04 <0.04 <0.04
Pr <0.005 0.05 0.03 <0.005<0.005 <0.005 <0.005
Nd <0.03 0.22 0.11 0.01 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03
Sm <0.03 0.05 0.04 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03
Eu <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03
Gd <0.02 0.05 0.03 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02
Tb <0.002 0.01 <0.002<0.002<0.002 <0.002 <0.002
Dy 0.008 0.05 0.03 <0.008<0.008 <0.008 <0.008
Ho 0.003 0.01 0.01 <0.003<0.003 <0.003 <0.003
Er <0.005 <0.005 <0.005<0.005<0.005 <0.005 <0.005
Tm <0.003 <0.003 <0.003<0.003<0.003 <0.003 <0.003
Yb <0.006 0.02 0.01 <0.006<0.006 <0.006 <0.006
Lu <0.003 <0.003 <0.003<0.003<0.003 <0.003 <0.003
Pb <0.05 6..03 2.61 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5
Bi 0.18 0.07 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 <0.03 0.31
Th <01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01
U 1.27 <0.02 <0.2 <0.2 0.62 0.64 0.76
Ti 6.97 28.15 14.12 7.61 5.77 5.73 5.12
Ge <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1
Zr <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05
Nb <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.01 <0.1
Mo 10.36 5.23 1.38 1.37 1.54 2,21 2.06
200
W <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5
Re 0.01 0.01 0.01 <0.002<0.002 0.01 0.01
Hg <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1
Hg sample analysed by P.R. Nimje Chemist Chemical Division Central
Region Geological Survey of India Nagpur Lab on 15.9.2017 and other
samples are analysed by M.S. Dahat, Sr. Chemist, P. Vamshi Krishna,
Asst. Chemist under the supervision of Smt. Shobha Rani Suptd
Chemist on 19.9.2017 at Chemical Division Southern Region, GSI
Hyderabad Lab.
CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF BHASMA OF LINGAM AND ASH SAMPLES
FROM MAHAKALESHWER TEMPLE
As
aforesaid report was furnished on 13.10.2017, thereafter suggestions
and objections were invited.
RESPONSE OF THE TEMPLE COMMITTEE TO REPORT OF EXPERT
FROM ASI/ GSI :
24.Response to the report has been filed by the Temple Committee
on 13.10.2017. The same is extracted hereunder:
“RESPONSE OF THE RESPONDENT NO.1/ MANDIR
SAMITI TO THE REPORT ON THE STUDY/ SUR
VEY/ANALYSIS/ EXAMINATION OF MAHAKALESH
WAR JYOTIRLINGAM OF UJJAIN (M.P.0 DATED
02.10.2017 CONDUCTED BY THE COMMITTEE
CONSTITUTED BY THIS HON’BLE COURT.
201
S.NO Ref. No. pH SiO2% Cao%P% P2O5%
1 Ash (Bhasham) from the
Lingam mix in standard water
media (7 pH)
9.0742.0511.2010.0823.0
2 Ash from cow dung mix in
standard water media (7pH)
Ujjain Market
9.6651.7512.324.229.67
3 Ash from cow dung mix in
standard water media (7 pH)
Bhopal Market
10.246.317.203.227.37
It is submitted that this Hon’ble Court vide order
dated 25.08.2017 constituted an Expert Committee
consisting of two officers of Archaeological Survey of
India and two officers of Geological Survey of India.
This Hon‘ble Court directed the Committee so consti
tuted to study/survey/analyse/examine Ma
hakaleshwar Jyotirlingam of Ujjain (M.P.) and prepare
a report containing the rate at which the deterioration
in the size of Lingam is taking place, if any, and mea
sures/ steps/ precautions to be taken to ensure that
this deterioration/ shrinkage of the Lingam stops. Let
the Committee also study the other structures and
also the temple and submit wheat steps are required
to be taken to overall improve the entire premises and
for its preservation.
Further, the Committee was also directed to make a
study and report inter alia as how much deterioration
of Lingam has taken place during the last threefour
decades and what remedial steps have to be taken.
In compliance with the same, the Committee consti
tuted by this Hon'ble Court has submitted a report
dated 02.10.2017 on 03.10.2017.
This Hon’ble Court vide order dated 03.10.2017 al
lowed the Answering Respondent to file their sugges
tions/objections with respect to the Report.
The Answering Respondent is submitting its point
wise response to the suggestions, recommendations
and remedial measures made by the Committee con
stituted by this Hon'ble Court vide Annexure R1.
In view of the foregoing is the most respectfully
prayed that this Hon'ble Court may be pleased to
pass appropriate order as deem fit and proper and
thus render Justice. The Answering Respondent un
dertakes to comply with all the directions, this
Hon'ble Court may render in the interest of protection
of the Idol.
S.
No
SUGGESTIONS,
RECOMMENDATION
RESPONSE OF THE
MANDIR SAMITI TO
202
. S AND REMEDIAL
MEASURES MADE
BY THE EXPERT
COMMITTEE
CONSTITUTED BY
THIS HON’BLE
COURT
THE SUGGESTIONS,
RECOMMENDATION
S AND REMEDIAL
MEASURES MADE
BY THE COMMITTEE
CONSTITUTED BY
THIS HON’BLE
COURT
1.The Jyotirlingam rock
has been identified as
orthoquartzite which
is hard and compact
and highly siliceous in
nature in which the
silica content caries
from 7592% analyzed
by portable XRF
studies. Apart from
visual observation
spectral signature by
spectroradiometer
were collected,
matched with the
standard signature of
orthoquartzite
available in GSI,
spectral lab.
Agree with the
observation.
2.The deterioration of
lingam has been
noticed and increased
in last 4050 years as
depicted in photos no
14 and 58; the
deterioration is
continuous in nature
can be managed with
remedial measures.
That the report is
based on photographs
taken in the year viz:
photo No.1 to 8. The
Mandir Samiti is
ready and willing to
take all necessary
remedial measures as
recommended by the
expert committee
constituted by this
Hon'ble Court to
conserve the lingam
namely; minimizing
and regulating the
203
water, flowers, and
offerings immediately.
3.The water of temple
premises used in
Jalabhishek is highly
alkaline in nature the
pH value ranges from
8.4 to 8.7 which is
reactive with the
cryptocrystalline
siliceous cementing
material of
orthoquartzite at room
temperature and
causing deterioration
in Jyotirlingam.
The Mandir Samiti
shall install an R.O.
plant to maintain the
pH value of the water
at around 7. The
devotees shall be
allowed to use on 500
ml of water in a
copper vessel only.
4.The tradition of
Bhasmaarti using ash
of cow dung (as per
temple pujaris) has
pH value ranges from
9.07 to 10.20 in
aqueous medium.
The Mandir Samiti
submits that before
pouring of ash over
the Lingam the
Committee is ready to
cover the Lingam with
a cotton cloth and
after pouring of ash
idol would be
completely cleaned by
superfine cotton cloth.
5.The ageold practices
cannot be stopped but
the amount of
material can be
restricted/ minimized
in order to reduce
deterioration. The
quantity of offering as
listed in Annexure I
contain milk, curd,
ghee, honey, sugar,
leaves, petals, and
flowers, accumulate in
pits promote the
growth of bacteria at
room temperature in
Use of ghee, milk,
curd, honey etc. shall
be restricted to not
more than 1.25 litres
per devotee. Further,
this material shall be
of ISI standard and a
random check of these
puja materials shall
be insured by the
Committee.
204
pH variation is also a
cause of deterioration.
6.Presence of major and
minor oxide and trace
elements of rock
enhance the electrical
conductivity of the
water to a high level
which can cause
deposition of salt in
pores/ pits and
chipping of material
by chemical
weathering.
After Jalabhishek by
the Lingam which
concluded by 5 p.m.
every day. The
Lingam shall be
properly cleaned and
dried to minimize the
water content and
thereafter only dry
pooja shall be
permitted every day.
7 Poor drainage
sanitation and water
spillage were also
spotted in the temple
premises.
The Mandir Samiti
submits that the
process of expansion
of drainage system is
under the process and
shall be completed at
the earliest.
8 The use of water
(jal/Gangajal)
throughout the day for
Abhishekas of the
Jyotirlinga by the
devotees should be
restricted to a
minimum.
The Mandir Samiti
shall install an R.O.
Plant to maintain the
pH value of the water
at around 7. The
devotees shall be
allowed to use only
500 ml of water in a
copper vessel only.
9 Use of milk and other
milk products ghee
and honey should be
minimized to a small
quantity and made
symbolic in nature to
satisfy the religious
requirement.
Use of ghee, milk,
curd, honey etc. shall
be restricted to not
more than 1.25 litres
per devotee. Further,
these materials shall
be of ISI standard and
a random check of
these pooja materials
shall be insured and
used.
10Rubbing of Rubbing of Sugar
205
Jaggary/Sugar
powder and other
powdery on the
Jyotirlinga may be
restricted/minimized.
powder shall be
banned.
11Use of lost of
flowers/Bel Patra etc.
may also be made
symbolic as the use of
such huge materials
keep the Jyotirlinga
wet all the time and
hinders natural
breathing of the stone
which is essential for
the good state of the
Jyotirlinga.
Dryers and fans will
be used to avoid
moisture. Belpatra
and flowers are used
on the upper part of
shivling and do not at
all hinder natural
breathing of the stone.
12Use of metal buckets,
offerings posts, and
other utensils should
be replaced with
wooden/Good Plastic
materials in order to
avoid mechanical
abrasions.
There are no
mechanical abrasions
since metallic utensils
used for jalabhishek
do not touch or abrase
the jyotirlinga.
13If possible, entry of
devotees in the
Grabhgriha may be
limited by making a
management plan.
Devotees may be
permitted for short
duration at a time to
avoid the crowd in
grabhgraha. This is
important as there is
long single entry door
which is also used as
an exit door.
Offering by devotees
cannot be avoided as
it relates to the
religious faith of the
devotees. However, a
management plan is
already made and
implemented wherein
only limited devotees
are permitted at a
time.
14.Every effort should beTo maintain the
206
made to keep the
Garbhgriha dry and
clean including the
passage and
surroundings
ambient temperature
of the lingam room
(Grabhgarh) at 1720
degree Celsius, more
air conditioners shall
be installed. Further,
all efforts shall be
made to keep the
Grabhagarh and its
surroundings dry and
clean.
15.All the damaged area
of marble floorings
and sealing of joints
etc. should be
repaired to avoid
water percolation
through the damaged
area.
Accepted
16.If possible provision
may be made for air
circulation in the
Garbhyagriha
Accepted
17.Arrangements for
disposal of waste
may be improved and
should be made more
effective.
Accepted. It is
submitted that Shri
Mahakaleshwar
temple is ranked in
top 10 most clean
Iconic places by
Government of India
in Swwach Bharat
Abhiyan.
18.Scientific/Chemical
treatment of any stone
object with periodical
inspection and
preventive
conservation may,
however, help to
preserve the object for
quite long time but in
case of Jyotirlinga it
Accepted
207
may not be
appropriate to
consider such
treatment as the
treatment of the
Jyotirlinga may be
acceptable to the
common people
because of their the
faith and religious
beliefs. Only
preventive
conservation methods
may be helpful to
keep the Jyotirlinga in
the best of its
conservation state.
19.Sincere efforts should
be made to preserve
the originality of the
main temple and other
structures of historical
importance in the
premises. Modern
materials should be
avoided for general
maintenance.
Offering by devotees
cannot be avoided as
it relates to the
religious faith of the
devotees. However, a
management plan is
already made
wherein only limited
devotees are
permitted at a time.
Crowd management
and lives of devotees
will be of utmost
priority forth temple
committee.
20.The antiquarian
remains of the
premise including
main temple of
Mahakal can be
classified mainly into
four groups; a: some
stone sculptures in
loose and fixed nature
assigned to 7th 8th
Accepted.
208
century AD, b: some
sculptures of 11th
12th century AD, c:
Main temple and other
subsidiary shrines of
18th century and d:
Other remains viz.
wooden box, copper
drum, seating
benches and some
metal work etc of 19th
20th century.
Numbers of stone
sculptures placed in
the temple premises
at different placed like
embed in the walls,
on the floors, and in
the abandoned rooms
needs to the properly
maintained,
documented,
identified and
displayed in a proper
place so that they
could be preserved for
future generation and
could be in use of
researchers and
students of art and
architecture.
21.Some unwanted
restoration works
have been done on the
1st and 2nd floors of
the Mahakal temple
by laying of modern
tiles on the floor. This
sort of flooring does
not match in any way
with the ambience
and old architecture of
the temple. On the
The Mandir Samiti
submits that the
constructions work
being carried out for
best and convenient
passage for devotees.
Necessary and
precautionary works
will be done as lakhs
of devotees throng the
temple during
Nagpanchmi.
209
north and south sides
of the temple, iron
scaffoldings are
placed attached to the
main temple. We were
told that the
scaffoldings are
provided for installing
iron stairs for climbing
of the visitors to the
temple on the top floor
to worship
Chandranageshwar.
On this floor, a
sculpture of
Chandranageshwar
with his consort is
placed inside a niche
covered with a glass
window and devotees
or visitors would be
allowed to reach
there. During our visit,
we were informed
that earlier temporary
arrangement was
made there by way of
installation of iron
stairs in the occasion
of nagapanchami
when lacs of visitors
used to visit here.
Providing of this sort
of installation is not
only the eyesore in
the ancient temple
premise but it would
lead a new tradition
in future and put an
adverse effect on the
old temples when
such a huge crowd of
devotees will reach
Abhishek the top floor.
210
Therefore, it should be
avoided for the safety
of the public and to
maintain the
ambiance of the
temples.
22.While the campus
consisting of old
temples have been
reflecting with white,
cream and red colors
as outer walls and
shikhara of almost all
the temples are
painted with these
colors and flooring
with tiles and red
stones. Besides that,
some new
constructions have the
carried out. This sort
of constructions and
development in an
ancient heritage place
should be avoided
and proper
conservation should
be carried out with the
help of conservators
and expert of ancient
architecture.
Accepted
Mandir Samiti is
carrying out works to
restore the heritage
look of the temple.
23.The significance of
Mahakal temple and
Ujjain is not only for
the people of Ujjain
and Madhya Pradesh,
rather for the people
of the whole country
too, therefore keeping
this thing in mind, it is
inevitably required to
develop this most
Accepted
Shree
Mahakaleshwar
temple management
committee has plans
to create a heritage
cell for maintenance
and restoration of the
old temple and
structures inside the
premise.
211
religious and heritage
site with proper care
and maintenance so
that its cultural and
tangible fabric could
not be disturbed.
Presently there are
numbers of the
temples inside the
temple premise
probably of the same
period as the Mahakal
temple but these
temples are conserved
in crappy manner by
adding eyesore
paintings on the walls
and some weird
addition to the old
structures. Some new
constructions are
done and some other
constructions are
presently going on
there. Therefore, it is
suggested that no
new construction may
be allowed within the
temple premise and
restoration and
development of the old
temples and
structures of the
premise may be
rectified and restored
with the assistance of
Archaeological
Conservators. Apart
from the various
activities as referred
above, Temple
committee can create
a heritage cell for
maintenance and
212
restoration of the old
temples and
structures inside the
premise.
24.It is stated earlier that
Ujjain is a very
ancient city and there
are numbers of old
structures, temples,
ponds, houses,
platforms etc around
the temple premise
still in extant, these
old structures are the
valuable heritage and
integral part of temple
premise needs to be
identified and
restored accordingly.
If it is possible for the
state government, 500
m all around the
temple premise can be
preserved with old
structures and
removed from the
modern construction.
Wherever open space
is found, that can be
landscaped and
developed so that its
religious ambiance
could be maintained
and preserved.
Accepted
Subject to necessary
repairs and
maintenances for the
preservation of the
heritage building to be
carried out from time
to time by temple
committee.
25.On 13.10.2017, following order was passed by this Court:
“Heard learned counsel for the parties.
This Court had constituted a Committee on
25.08.2017 consisting of Shri Madan Singh Chauhan,
Regional Director (Archaeologist), ASI, Central Region,
213
Bhopal; (ii) Dr. V. K. Saxena, Director (Science),
(Archaeological Chemist), ASI, Science Branch,
Dehradun; (iii) Shri Hemraj Suryavanshi, Dy. Director,
General, State Unit, Madhya Pradesh, GSI, Bopal; and
(iv) Shri L.L. Vishwakarma, Director, Su: MP, GSI,
Bhopal. They have submitted their reports which are
exhaustive. Respondent No.1 Temple Committee has
filed its response to various proposals made by the
Expert Committee. They have filed pointwise response
contained in Annexure R1. The Temple Committee has
suggested certain remedial measures. In the
circumstances, it is appropriate to request the Temple
Committee to consider the various recommendations. It
was also stated that let the Committee take a decision
for implementation of the recommendations which are to
be accepted as it is a primary responsibility for the
Committee to manage the affairs. Let a considered firm
decision The opening regarding implementation.
We appreciate the gesture of the counsel for the
parties as it is not adversarial litigation but in order to
improve the overall situation and to protect and preserve
the Lingam of Mahakaleshwar. It was also stated that
the Committee has decided to regulate the timings etc.
and various suggestions were made during the course
of hearing. Let Committee take a decision considering
the overall interest and rise to the occasion by doing the
needful. Let the Committee consider the report of the
experts and its stand taken in the annexure R/1 filed
by them and pass appropriate resolutions as prayed by
counsel for respondent No.1.
Be listed on 27.10.2017.”
RESOLUTION DATED 26.10.2017 PASSED BY TEMPLE
COMMITTEE:
26.Pursuant to the order dated 13.10.2017, resolution has been
passed by the Committee on 26.10.2017 filed as Annexure R1 and the
same is extracted hereunder :
“Keeping in consideration the
suggestions/objections and recommendations of the
Expert Committee constituted by the Hon’ble Supreme
214
Court and also in compliance of the order dated
13.10.2017 passed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court, the
Temple Management Committee hereby passes the
following Resolution covering point 1 to 24 of the
suggestions/objections and recommendations of the
Expert Committee constituted by the Hon’ble Supreme
Court to protect and preserve the Mahakal Shivlinga :
1. That the devotees shall be permitted a fixed amount
of water measuring 500 ml in an appropriate small pot
per devotee for Jalabhishek.
2. That the water for Jalabhishek shall be taken from
the R.O. machine installed during Simhastha, 2016, for
which a connection shall be provided near the Garbh
Grih to maintain the pH value at ‘7’.
3. That at present during Bhashma Aarti, half of the
lingam is being covered with cloth but as per the
directions, in fifteen days, the whole of the Shivalingam
shall be fully covered with a dry cotton cloth during
Bhasma Aarti.
4. That for Abhishek only up to maximum 1.25liter
mil/panchamruit per devotee shall be permitted.
5. That after Jalabhishek by the lingam which is
concluded by 5 P.M. every day. The Lingam shall be
properly cleaned and dried to minimize the water
content and thereafter only dry pooja shall be permitted
every day.
6. At present captive sewerage, treatment technique is
being used for treatment and the same shall be
continued till the sewerage treatment plant is installed
for which steps are being taken which will require
minimum one year time.
7. That rubbing of sugar powder on Shivlinga has been
fully banned and instead the use of Khandsari is being
promoted.
8. That dryers and fans will be used to avoid moisture.
Bel Patra and flowers shall be used on the upper part of
215
shivling to avoid any obstruction in natural breathing of
stone.
9. That the crowd management shall be strictly followed
as done on big festivals namely Simhashtha, 2016,
Mahashivratri, Nagpanchmi and month of Shravan
where maximum crowd appears on those holidays and
weekends. During such time the committee is using
barricades for dong Darshna from outside the main
Garbhgrih and limited devotee are also permitted in the
garbhgrih at a time. Similar arrangement shall be
ensured on normal days also.
Various IT proposals have been received to use
technology for effective crowd managing strategies, e.g.
IT based queue management.
10. That all possible efforts shall be taken to maintain
an ambient temperature of the lingam room (Grabhgarh)
at 1720 degree Celsius. The Garbhgrih shall be kept
dry, neat and tidy. Further, an AUTOMATIC CLIMATE
CONTROL SYSTEM using sensors shall be fitted in
Garbhgrih to give information about temperature and
humidity which shall help in effective regulation and
monitoring of environmental factors.
11. That damaged area of marble flooring and sealing of
joints etc. shall be repaired within a period of six
months.
12. That all efforts should be made for creating of
heritage cell and for restoration/repairs and
maintenance of all items of historical importance. Steps
are being taken for the structure and role of the heritage
cell.
13. To preserve antiques in premises of temple
nameplates are being affixed in front of various small
temples mentioning the names of the temples and their
era etc.
14. It shall be ensured that no new significant
construction is carried out in temple premises but so far
as the convenience and smooth passage in the premises
216
is concerned construction will be done with a due
permission of the competent authorities.
15. It The application that in order to implement the
above resolution a minimum period from one month to
one Year may be sought from the Hon'ble Supreme
Court."
ORDER DATED 27.10.2017
27.Following is the relevant portion of the order was passed by this
Court on 27.10.2017 :
“During the course of hearing on behalf of respon
dent No.1Shri Mahakaleshwar Mandir Committee, a
copy of the Resolution that has been unanimously
passed on 26‘" October 2017 has been placed on record.
It is stated that Resolution No.1 to 8 are being imple
mented.
Mr. Ashok Chitale learned senior counsel for the
petitioner has raised objections to some of the Resolu
tions that have been passed and seeks time to file re
ply/suggestions which would be in the interest of all.
Let the suggestions be filed by the petitioner and other
respondents, if any, within a period of fifteen days from
today. Reply thereto may also be filed by the Temple
Committee within next seven days.
Geological Survey of India and Archeological Sur
vey of India may also submit their proposals within a
period of fifteen days from today on the basis of the res
olution that has been passed by respondent No.1 on
26.10.2017 and objections/suggestions to the aforesaid
resolution.
List on 30
th
November 2017."
217
RESPONSE OF EXPERT COMMITTEE TO THE RESOLUTION DATED
26.10.2017 OF THE TEMPLE COMMITTEE:
28.With respect to the resolution passed by the Temple Committee
dated 26.10.2017, the Expert Committee appointed by this Court of ASI
and Geological Survey of India has submitted the following suggestions:
“The Expert Committee has gone through the
resolution passed by the temple committee and
submitting following suggestion:
We have described in our original report that many
offerings including Jal used during the rituals of
abhisheka are the main cause of deterioration to the
Jyotirlingam. We have suggested all offerings of the
material to be symbolic in nature with pure quality and
treated water of potable quality with pH value range
from 6.8 to 7.2 to minimize the adverse effect. Apart
from this, the periodical monitoring and proper
management of these crucial parameters are required to
manage this problem.
Suggestions/ Objections on the resolution passed by
the temple committee are as below:
Resolution of temple Committee:
Keeping in consideration the suggestions/ objections
and recommendations of the Expert Committee
constituted by the Hon’ble Supreme Court and also in
compliance of the order dated 13.10.2017 passed by
the Hon’ble Supreme Court, the Temple Management
Committee hereby passes the following Resolution
covering point 1 to 24 of the suggestions/ objections
and recommendations of the Expert Committee
constituted by the Hon’ble Supreme Court to protect and
preserve the Mahakal Shivlinga:
218
16.That the devotees shall be permitted a fixed amount
of water measuring 500 ml in an appropriate small pot
per devotee for Jalabhishek.
Expert Committee’s comment: Agrees
17.That the water for Jalabhishek shall a from the R.O.
machine installed during Simhastha, 2016 for which a
connection shall be provided near the Garbh Griha to
maintain the pH value at ‘7’.
Expert Committee’s comment: Agrees
Suggestions: The pH value of jalabhishek water may
vary as per variation in the source of supply of water
which has to be controlled by treatment ranging from
6.8 to 7.2 pH, but a periodical monitoring may be done
for maintaining the abovementioned range.
18.That at present during Bhashma Aarti, half of the
lingam is being covered with clothThe similar but as per
the directions, in fifteen days, the whole of the
Shivalingam shall be fully covered with a dry cotton
cloth during Bhasma Aarti.
Expert Committee’s suggestion: Due to bhasma aarti
ash particle retained in the pits over the lingam will
react with water and increase its pH value, resulting
aggravate the corrosion process of the lingam, therefore,
the lingam should be fully covered with thick cotton
cloth/ transparent polyfilm during bhasma aarti. The
Lingam should be thoroughly cleaned after Bhasma
aarti and ensure that all residual ash particle should be
removed from the lingam, then only jalabhishek with
clean and potable water with pH value range from 6.8
7.2 may be allowed.
19.That for Abhishek only up to maximum 1.25litre
milk/ panchamruit per devotee shall be permitted.
Expert Committee’s suggestion:
That for Abhishek only up to maximum 1.25litre
milk/panchamruit per devotee are appropriate, but
during the rush time and special occasions such amount
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may increase enormously, therefore, it is suggested that
the quantity may be reduced to symbolic in nature.
20.That after Jalabhishek of the lingam with is
concluded by 5 P.M. every day. The Lingam shall be
properly cleaned and dried to minimize the water
content and thereafter only dry pooja shall be permitted
every day.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees.
21.At present captive sewerage, treatment technique is
being used for treatment and the same shall be
continued till the sewerage treatment plant is installed
for which steps are being taken with will require
minimum one year time.
Expert committee’s suggestion: Kotiteerath water
may be treated periodically and ensure that rainwater
of the temple premises, as well as drain off water from
the temple premises, should not be drained into the
pond and contaminate the kotiteerath pond.
22.That rubbing of sugar powder on Shivlinga has been
fully banned and instead the use of Khandsari is being
promoted.
Expert Committee suggestion: rubbing of any offering
material may be banned to stop further abrasion of the
lingam. A devotee may be allowed to offer their offering
symbolically but shall not be allowed to rub any
material over the lingam.
23.That dryers and fans will be used to avoid moisture.
Belpatra and flowers shall be used on the upper part of
Shivling to avoid any obstruction in natural breathing of
stone.
Expert Committee’s comment: Agrees
24.That the crowd management shall be strictly followed
as done on big festivals namely Simhashtha, 2016,
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Mahashivratri, Nagpanchmi and month of Shravan
where maximum crowd appears on those holidays and
weekends. During such time the Committee is using
barricades for dong Darshna from outside the main
Garbhgrih and limited devotee are also permitted in the
Garbhgrih at a time. Similar arrangement shall be
ensured on normal days also.
Various IT proposals have been received to use
technology for effective crowd managing strategies, e.g.
IT based queue management.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees
25.That all possible efforts shall be taken to maintain an
ambient temperature of the lingam room (Grabhgrah) at
1720 degree Celsius. The Garbhgrih shall be kept dry,
neat and tidy. Further, an AUTOMATIC CLIMATE
CONTROL SYSTEM using sensors shall be fitted in
Garbhgrih to give information about temperature and
humidity which shall help in effective regulation and
monitoring of environmental factors.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees
26.That damaged area of marble flooring and sealing of
joints etc. shall be repaired within a period of six
months.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees
27.That all efforts should be made for the creation of
heritage cell and for restoration/ repairs and
maintenance of all items of historical importance. Steps
are being taken for the structure and role of the heritage
cell.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees
28.To preserve antiques in premises of temple nameplates
are being affixed in front of various small temples
mentioning the names of the temples and their era etc.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees
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29.It shall be ensured that no new significant construction
is carried out in temple premises but so far as the
convenience and smooth passage in the premises is
concerned construction will be done with a due
permission of the competent authorities.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees
30.It is further resolved that in order to implement the
above resolution a minimum period from one month to
one Year may be sought from the Hon’ble Supreme
Court.
Expert committee’s comment: Agrees”
ORDER DATED 30.11.2017:
29.Following order was passed by this Court on 30.11.2017 :
“We are concerned, and so express our anguish, as
to the way in which the orders which have been passed
so far in the matter are being misrepresented in media
and otherwise. We have not passed any interim
direction with regard to the manner in which the
religious ceremonies have to be performed in the Temple
at Mahakaleshwar, Ujjain. This Court has not passed
any order whatsoever that, during the Bhasma Aarti,
what rituals can, or what rituals cannot be, performed,
and neither it is the job of this Court to interfere in such
rituals. This Court has not passed any order in this
regard. We are concerned in the petition about the
protection of the lingam and how it can be done. For this
purpose, this Court has appointed a Committee of
Experts of G.S.I. as well as the A.S.I., and they have
submitted their reports. They are yet to be finally
considered by this Court.
A notice issued by the Managing Committee on
Board has been placed before us today, indicating that
this Court has directed that how much water has to be
offered on the lingam by the devotees or about the
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quantity of Panchamrit etc. This Court had issued no
such direction. In fact, it appears that the Committee
itself has taken various decisions and they are being
implemented. The Notice Board which has been put by
the Managing Committee of the Temple should be
removed forthwith i.e. by today itself, and it is open to
the Committee to put it on the Notice Board as per its
resolutions if any. In case any wrong or misleading
reporting is made by the media, in any form, at the
instance of any person about the order passed by this
Court, the person so responsible for such wrong
reporting, misrepresentation about the order shall be
liable to be dealt with in accordance with law. It is
regrettable that there has been wrong reporting at
somebody's instance. We caution the parties before us
that they should not indulge in any such wrong
reporting, in any manner whatsoever, and if it is found
that any wrong reporting is made, the same shall be
viewed seriously, and the person responsible for it shall
be dealt with in accordance with law.
List the matter for further hearing on 4th December
2017."
30.As it was noticed that misrepresentation was being made with
respect to the order passed by this Court and unrest was tried to be
created on the ground that this Court is interfering with the religious
rituals to be performed in the temple during Pooja. Thus we have
clarified that we have not interfered with the same. Aforesaid direction
holds good for this order also and to be scrupulously observed by all
concerned. The only objective of entertaining the writ petition on the
aforesaid question was just to ensure that all the rituals which may be
necessary be performed however to ensure that the Lingam does not
deteriorate any further.
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31.It is apparent from the report that there is a decay of the Lingam
and certain damage has been noted by the Expert Committee. Negative
factors have also been pointed out in extensive details. Activities
regarding the daily cleaning of temple premises, gaushala, Vedic
samsthan, mandir, rasoi of the temple etc. have been pointed out. The
study has been done by Spectroradiometer, portable XRF studies, water
analysis, ash analysis, the extent of weathering etc. Various
suggestions and recommendations had been made including the
remedial measures Mr. Madan Singh Chauhan, Regional Director, ASI,
Central Region, Bhopal report is contained in the first chapter. The
second chapter contains the report submitted by Dr. V. K. Saxena,
Director (Science), ASI, Science Branch, Dehradun. The third chapter
deals with the Geoscientific study of the Shivalinga made by Mr.
Hemraj Suryavanshi, Deputy Director General and Mr. L. Vishvakarma,
Director, Geological Survey of India, Bhopal.
32.It has been noticed in the report of the experts of the ASI and GSI
that deterioration of Lingam has taken place during the last 40 to 50
years as depicted in photos 1 to 4 and 5 to 8 annexures with the report.
It is further observed that the deterioration is continuous in nature and
can be managed with remedial measures.
33.It has been pointed out that the water analysis of the temple
premises used in the Jalabhishekam is highly alkaline in nature and
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pH value ranges from 8.4 to 8.7. Various other causes have been
delineated in the report of the experts. In all 24 causes have been given.
Milk particularly contaminated one, sugar, leaves, petals and flowers,
poor drainage sanitation and water spillage, use of the water should be
minimum. Rubbing of jaggery/sugar powder should be restricted or
minimized. Use of a lot of flowers and leaves also keeps the Jyotirlingam
wet all the time and hinders natural breathing of the stone of
Jyotirlingam. Use of metal buckets, pots, utensils also causes abrasions
to the Lingam. If possible entry of devotees in Garbh Griha should be
limited. Garbh Griha should be kept dry and clean. There should be
proper air circulation in Garbh Griha. Arrangements for disposal of
waste may be improved and should be made more effective. Since
scientific/chemical treatment may not be acceptable, preventive
conservation methods may be helpful to keep the Jyotirlingam in the
best of its conservation state. Considering the historical importance of
the premises, use of modern materials in the premises should be
avoided so as to maintain the antiquity. There is a need to identify the
sculptures and they are required to be properly documented and
identified.
34.Some unwarranted restoration work has also been noticed by the
Committee in para 21. That should be looked after and remedial
measures should be taken as suggested in the report.
225
35.In para 22 certain new constructions have been pointed out. Let
the conservation be carried out with the help of conservator and experts
of ancient architecture. Other suggestions have been made in the
report. Paras 1 to 24 of these are required to be looked into and suitable
remedial measures should be taken by the Temple Committee.
Remedial measures suggested in the report with respect to water
quality, maintaining the pH value from 6.8 to 7.2, cleaning of
Jyotirlingam, also requires to be observed in the best possible manner
by the Committee and ambient temperature be maintained from 17 to
20 degree Celsius. Use of ghee, milk, curd, honey etc. be minimized.
36.There should be proper disposal of temple garbage and it should
be ensured that it does not contaminate the Kotiteerath Pond. Better
use of flowers would be that they are recycled for the production of
scent/itra. For that project may be prepared by the administration with
the help of concerned bodies or on the basis of PPP. Cleaning methods
should be modernized.
37.It is apparent from the response of the Committee filed pursuant
to the order dated 25.8.2017 of this Court that the Committee has
agreed (1) to save the Lingam by minimizing the flowers and offerings
material. (2) It has also been resolved that the Temple Committee shall
install an RO plant to maintain pH value of water at 7 and devotees
should be allowed to use minimum water. (3) Temple Committee has
also resolved that during Bhasma Aarti also they will take appropriate
226
steps which may be permissible. (4) As permissible, use of ghee, milk,
curd, and honey shall be restricted per devotee. These materials shall
be of ISI standards. (5) Lingam shall be properly cleaned and dried after
Puja. (6) Expansion of drainage system was under process and be
completed at the earliest. (7) Rubbing of sugar powder on the Lingam
shall be banned. (8) It would be ensured that there is no harm caused
to the Jyotirlingam. (9) There is a management plan to permit limited
devotees at one time in Garbh Griha so that there is no stampede. (10)
They are ready to maintain the temperature of garbhgriha from 17 to 20
degree Celsius. There should be more air conditioners. (11) Damaged
area of marble flooring and sealing of joints shall be repaired. (12)
Provision has to made for proper circulation of air in garbh griha. (13)
Arrangements for disposal of wastes have to be improved.
38.Preventive conservation methods shall be used by the Committee.
Efforts shall be made to preserve the originality and antiquity of the
temple.
39.They have to also ensure that they will undertake necessary steps
for saving structure and life of devotees during Nagpanchmi. Let a plan
in this regard be prepared within two months. It is also directed that let
them make an effort for the preservation of historical monument the
new development work if any, should only be made to match with
ancient nature of the temple so that its heritage look is maintained. As
227
to the recommendations as mentioned in para 22 of the report of the
Experts Committee, same have been accepted by the Committee. Let
the Committee implement the recommendations as agreed to and
resolved by it. Considering the national and international importance,
Temple Committee has rightly resolved to create a Heritage Cell for
maintenance and restoration of the old temples and structures inside
the premises. Let such cell be created at the earliest.
40.In compliance of the order dated 13.10.2017 the Committee has
passed various resolutions accepting various recommendation of the
Expert Committee quoted above. The Expert Committee of ASI and GSI
has filed response to the various resolutions passed by the Committee.
The Expert Committee has also agreed with most of the resolutions.
However, it has made certain suggestions which are to be considered by
the Committee and implemented in best possible manner.
41.Expert Committee suggestion in respect of Kotiteerath Pond water
to be treated periodically and to ensure that the rainwater of temple
premises, as well as drainage water from the temple premises, should
not be drained into the pond and contaminate the Kotiteerath Pond.
Has to be implemented in true spirit.
42.Committee of expert has also suggested that rubbing of any
offering by devotees may be stopped. Devotees may be allowed to offer
their offerings symbolically but not to be allowed to rub any material
228
over the Lingam. Let the Committee consider the aforesaid aspects and
to ensure that as far as possible no rubbing is done by the devotees on
the Lingam or by any material. The committee has also pointed out that
no new significant construction to be carried out in the temple premises
except so far as convenience and smooth passage in the premises is
concerned, let the resolutions be carried out and fully implemented as
resolved by the Committee on time bound basis for different stages
within one year.
43.With respect to the method of “lingarchan”, i.e. the method of
linga pooja, the 27
th
chapter of “Ling Mahapuranm” has been placed on
record. That contains a detailed method of lingarchan running into 54
strotam. Apart from that “Shiv Mahapuranam”, Vayveey Sanhita
containing details of Shastrokt Shiv Poojan method in twentyforth
chapter has been placed on record. Pooja of different lingam may be
somewhat different. It is for the experts in the field of religion to decide
about the rituals and ceremonies to be performed. It is not for this
Court to make suggestions in this regard.
44.It is not within the jurisdiction of this Court to dictate or to
prescribe or restrain the religious practices and Pujas to be performed
in temple. They are required to be performed, as rightly pointed out, in
accordance with the ancient rituals and practices but, at the same time,
it has to be ensured that no damage is caused to the lingam. The
229
temple which is known as Mritunjaya Mahadev and is most ancient
Jyotirlingam in one of the ancient cities of India, Ujjain. ‘Simhast’ is
also organised 6 years and 12 years which has international importance
visited by several millions of people. The Government spends thousands
of crores of rupees for development of infrastructure in Ujjain for each
such occasion and lot of development has taken place. Owing to all
these development work, Ujjain has come up. But at the same time very
cause of all developments, the Lingam of Lord Shiva requires to be
preserved, protected by way of preventive conservation methods.
45.In order to ensure purity of pooja materials and to prevent further
erosion of Lingam it would be appropriate and fitness of things that a
plan is prepared regarding the entire offering materials on the lingam to
be manufactured and provided by temple itself as is done in several
famous temples in the Southern part of India and other places. By
pouring the adulterated Milk, Ghee, Kumkum, Gulal, Abir containing
chemicals due to adulteration is improper and cannot be permitted to
be part of the ritual. Lingam cannot be permitted to be destroyed by
chemical reactions of impure materials or by pouring of the dirty water
such acts of offerings cannot be allowed and as are done innocently by
the people unaware of ill effect on lingam. Had devotees been aware of
all these, adverse effect of their Puja on the Lingam of their God itself of
which they are performing Puja for the spiritual or other gains they
would not have even dreamt of doing it. Let the Temple Committee and
230
other stakeholders rise to the occasion and take positive steps in this
direction in reasonable time.
46.It was also pointed out that use of Bhang (cannabis) has been
started in recent past. It has been started approximately for the last 50
years and that is one of the causes of erosion as per the petitioner.
Earlier it used to be offered symbolically. It is for the Temple Committee
to decide on these rituals and which material to be used by it and in
which quantity for purpose of Puja by Temple and for how much time,
in what manner Bhang should be applied and in what rituals. Let
Committee consider it with help of scriptures and experts. How its use
can be best modulated by the Committee itself, considering past
practices, as the ultimate duty of Committee is to make preservation of
the Lingam itself for its existence and for that it has to consider and
adopt what is the best mode of performing the rituals, what are the
materials which should be used and in what quantity but it has to be
ensured that the materials are not impure and are without such
chemicals which may cause erosion of the lingam itself otherwise the
very purpose of Puja would be defeated.
47.Puja is to be performed in such a manner which should be
befitting to the deity and not to cause erosion itself of lingam for which
so much infrastructure exists. Lingam is known as ‘Mrityunjaya
Mahadev’, who prevents from destruction, it cannot be permitted to be
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destructed. Lingam cannot be permitted to be exploited in a manner it
is destroyed. If one believes in the concept of real pooja, such Pooja is to
be performed by pure materials as purest of thoughts. No spiritual or
other gain can come if Puja is performed in a manner which damages
the deity itself as that would amount to displeasing the saviour. That
would be against the basic tenets of performance of Pooja and of
making offerings.
48.Let the Temple Committee also invite and consider various views
for further improvement of the temple. Let the Temple Committee make
an endeavour along with other stakeholders to prepare/manufacture
the offering material in purest of the form and by such time it becomes
a reality to make an arrangement in such a manner that only pure and
unadulterated materials are offered in pooja on Lingam. No impure and
adulterated material is offered in Puja and the resolutions made by the
Temple Committee are scrupulously observed by all concerned.
49.Let a concrete plan be made by the Committee for further
improvement including its Gaushalas. Let existing Gaushala and
kitchen be improved and modernize and for that purpose, in case,
additional land is required, plan be prepared and implemented with the
help of all concerned so that temple becomes selfsufficient to provide
all pooja material based on milk product etc.
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50.On merits, we find that the decision by the Single Bench has
rightly been set aside by the Division Bench for the various reasons
mentioned in the order and in particular in view of the fact that in the
impugned order the Division Bench has relied on decision in
Ramchandra Mangilal & Ors. v. State of M.P. ILR (1991) MP 444 = (1987)
MPLJ 668 which had been affirmed by this Court as SLP against it was
dismissed. Hence no case for interference on merits is made out.
51.We appreciate the gesture to all concerned in acting with
positivity for the preservation of Lingam. We direct the ASI and GSI
teams as has been constituted that has visited and had submitted the
report to make a visit in January 2019 and submit a report in this
regard with respect to the position of the lingam and improvements
made as per suggestions made in the report.
52.Before parting with the judgment, we would like to reiterate that
there should not be any misreporting of the Court’s order, as specified
in our order dated 30.11.2017. Any violation on this count shall be
viewed seriously and sternly with appropriate consequences, wherever
necessary. It is hereby made clear that we have not interfered with
religious ceremonies to be performed in the Temple. Registry is directed
to preserve the original combined report of the Expert Committee as
part of the record as it is a valuable document.
53.The appeal is accordingly disposed of.
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54.We appreciate the assistance rendered by Mr. Tushar Mehta, the
Additional Solicitor General of India, and all other counsel who
appeared in this case for various parties and also appreciate the gesture
of the experts of the Expert Committee.
.……………………………J.
(ARUN MISHRA)
…………………………….J.
(UDAY UMESH LALIT)
NEW DELHI;
MAY 02, 2018.
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