Advance booking for Ujjain temple darshan

Ujjain, Dec 29 (UNI) To check the rush of pilgrims, the authorities of the famous Mahakaleshwar temple here have opted for advance booking for the darshan during ''Bhasmarthi'' in the wee hours on new year day.

Traditionally, ash from crematorium is used for 'Bhasmarthi', but, of late, even ash from burnt cowdung has become an alternative.

The Mahakaleshwar temple, one among the 12 Jyotirlingas in the country, is the only temple where ''Bhasmarti'' is performed daily.

More than 500 devouts had already sought permission for 'Bhasmarthi darshan' on the new year day, though the capacity inside the temple was for nearly 200 people, temple administrator Shubhkaran Sharma said. Internet and fax have come in handy to apply. No entry fee is charged.

A year ago, nearly 200 pilgrims were present for the darshan on new year day. In the last fortnight, there was a sharp increase in the arrival of pilgrims, including VVIPs, Mr Sharma added.

Elaborate arrangements have been made to manage heavy rush of pilgrims on December 31 and January 1, when entry inside the sanctum sanctorum would be banned. Security has also been tightened.

UNI XC-KD VV1454