In a moment that was both historic and moving, the Banke Bihari Temple in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, opened its treasury for the first time in 54 long years on the auspicious day of Dhanteras. This sacred location had been closed since 1971. And its reopening was an occasion filled with tradition, joy, and devotion, significant for the entire nation.
Banke Bihari Temple In Mathura Reopened Its Treasury After Over Five Decades
In accordance with a Supreme Court order, the reopening was held on Saturday under the direction of a High-Powered Committee. To ensure complete safety and transparency, the entire process was videographed and carried out under tight security.
Sandeep Singh, a Mathura Circle Officer, shared that the temple’s treasury is being cautiously reopened in compliance with court orders, the Economic Times reported. To ensure safety, the forest and fire departments have teams on site, among other security measures. The treasury has been closed for more than 50 years, so no one knows the precise state. Hence, the authorities have made sure that every precaution is being taken.
Because the treasury had been sealed for such a long time, officials wanted to be prepared for every situation. Fire safety was a key focus, with special backpack-style fire extinguishers brought in, according to The Economic Times. These extinguishers cut off the oxygen supply to quickly put out fires. The presence of forest department personnel ensured that the old structure and surroundings remained protected.
Opening It On Dhanteras Makes It Even More Significant
The last time this treasury was opened was in 1971, under the supervision of the temple’s then committee president, as per The Economic Times report. The doors had stayed closed ever since, and among devotees, it had practically become a legend. Diwali, one of India’s most cherished holidays, begins on Dhanteras, the day selected for this reopening.
Lord Dhanvantari, the Goddess of Wealth Lakshmi, Lord Kuber, and Lord Ganesha—deities linked to wealth, prosperity, and good health—are honoured on this day. On Dhanteras, people all over the nation purchase gold, silver, and other valuables in the hopes of bringing prosperity and good fortune into their homes.
For Lord Banke Bihari’s followers and the people of Mathura, it was an even more memorable Dhanteras. The reopening of the temple treasury after half a century seemed to be a direct gift from the god.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/Aman Kumar