The Babulnath Temple in Mumbai is one of the most ancient and sacred temples in Mumbai. Several devotees visit the temple every day to offer their respects. One of the major reasons that draws devotees to Babulnath is the old Shivling that it houses. Devotees come from far and wide to get blessings from the sacred relic. However, of late, it has been noticed that the Shivling is starting to have cracks and barriers.
Shivling In Babulnath Temple Has Cracks; Here’s Why
When the cracks were first discovered a few days ago, the trustees asked for the help of experts from IIT Bombay. They wanted the experts to find out what was causing the cracks. After a thorough analysis, the IIT Bombay experts found that the cracks were caused due to several items that it was subjected to during its worship.
There is a practice of pouring milk, water, and other items on the Shivling. This practice is known as ‘Abhishek.’ Experts found that doing ‘Doodh Abhishek’, pouring milk over the relic, is causing damage to it. Additionally, using adulterated materials like sandalwood, kumkum, gulal, ashes, etc. is also exacerbating the damage to the Shivling.
As such, the temple is only allowing devotees to do Jal Abhishek now. This means that the devotees will only be able to pour water on the sacred relic to seek its blessings. They will not be allowed to pour milk or other items.
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About The History Of The Ancient Temple
This decision has ruffled some feathers among the devotees and not everyone is happy about this. Many have complained that they would like to offer their respects in the same way they used to before the COVID-19 pandemic happened.
However, it is important to keep in mind that the decision was taken to preserve the Shivling. The Babulnath temple in Mumbai is one of the oldest temples in the country. It is said that the temple dates back to the 12th century AD. The Shivling that it houses is said to be even older than that.
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When was the last time you visited this historic and legendary temple? Let us know in the comments below!
Cover Image Credits: Flickr