Ujjain’s famous Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple has now introduced a new real-time monitoring system. This new setup will ensure transparency and efficiency in its VIP and protocol darshan arrangements. Here’s everything you need to know about the latest development at one of India’s most important Lord Shiva temples.
Real-Time Tracking For VIP Darshan In Ujjain Mahakaleshwar Temple
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The Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple is one of the twelve most sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Interestingly, it is also the only Jyotirlinga that faces south. Now, as per a report by Navbharat Times, a real-time surveillance system has been introduced for VIP darshan at the temple. This new system has been implemented to ensure complete transparency and efficiency in the darshan process.
It has been launched under the guidance of Temple Administrator Pratham Kaushik. A tech-based setup will now track every VIP entering the temple premises. According to the Navbharat Times report, when a VIP such as a politician, judicial officer, celebrity, or journalist arrives for darshan, their details will be entered into Google Docs. A temple employee will be stationed at the temple’s Shankh Gate to record all required information on a computer for complete digital tracking.
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How Does This System Work?
Reportedly, the data entered into Google Docs will instantly be accessible on the phones of Administrator Pratham Kaushik and Assistant Administrator Ashish Palawadia. The Google Docs system will allow real-time tracking and record details like who visited, when they arrived, which gate they used, how long they stayed, how many people accompanied them, and which employee handled the protocol process.
Additionally, there will be a three-level verification, and all live feeds will be immediately updated on the officials’ phones. The live monitoring continues throughout the day. This system was first introduced in the first week of October and has already started showing good results.
Why Did The Temple Introduce This System?
The Mahakal Temple in Ujjain is considered one of the holiest sites for Lord Shiva devotees. Every year, the temple attracts millions of visitors, many of whom opt for protocol darshan. Under this system, officials and dignitaries can get special access for a donation of ₹250.
However, reports revealed irregularities in the process. It was found that some temple employees allegedly allowed devotees to enter the temple illegally by accepting payments ranging from ₹1,100 to ₹2,000 per person. Therefore, to prevent such misuse in the future, the temple has now decided to make the entire protocol darshan process digital and transparent.
So, what do you think of this new change? Do share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Cover Image Courtesy: Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, Wikipedia/ Ashverse and @ujjain_kai_mahakaleshwar/ Instagram
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