A Hanuman temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, has drawn attention after its structure was demolished as part of a road-widening project, while repeated attempts to relocate the idol reportedly failed. The Khade Hanuman Temple, located along the Kanthal Chauraha–Chhatri Chowk road, is being affected by infrastructure work undertaken ahead of Simhastha 2028. Local accounts claim that the temple is around 170 years old. Scroll down to know more.
Attempts To Move Ujjain’s 170-Year-Old Hanuman Idol Fail
The road-widening project is part of preparations for Simhastha, the major religious gathering held in Ujjain every 12 years. Millions of devotees are expected to visit the city during the festival, with many travelling to take a holy dip in the Shipra River and visit its prominent temples.
The Ujjain Municipal Corporation and district administration had reportedly planned to relocate the idol to a new site near Tanki Chowk. While the surrounding temple structure has largely been removed, the standing Hanuman idol remains at its original location. According to reports by MP Tak and Amar Ujala, officials and workers made four attempts to shift the idol using heavy machinery over the past few days. All the attempts reportedly failed, after which authorities stopped using heavy equipment.
Officials are now considering a more detailed examination of the idol and its base. Authorities are reportedly planning to scan the structure before deciding how it can be safely relocated without causing any damage.
Why Devotees See The Hanuman Idol’s Failed Relocation As A ‘Divine Sign’
The failed attempts have triggered a wave of discussion on social media. Some devotees have described the incident as a possible “divine sign”, suggesting that the deity does not want to be moved from the site. Temple priest Mahesh Bairagi told MP Tak that the repeated failures could be interpreted as a sign that the deity should remain in place. However, he also stressed that if the idol has to be relocated, it should be done carefully and in the same form in which it currently stands.
Also Read: Why Devotees Can No Longer Touch Lord Ganesha Idol At THIS Temple In Gokarna
The temple’s history has also entered the discussion. While local accounts place its origins around 170 years ago, there are claims linking the idol to an even earlier period, including the Paramara era. These historical claims, however, have not been conclusively established. For now, the idol remains at the site under a temporary canopy as authorities await expert assessment. The situation has raised a larger question about how infrastructure development can proceed while protecting places and objects that hold deep religious and cultural significance.
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FAQs
What is the name of the temple in Ujjain?
The temple name is Khade Hanuman Temple in Ujjain.
What is Ujjain famous for?
Ujjain is most famous for the Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple, home to one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
Is 2 days sufficient for Ujjain?
Two days are completely sufficient to explore the main temples, ghats, and cultural sites of Ujjain without feeling rushed.
