Vrindavan Banke Bihari Temple: Darshan time changed

 

Earlier in the month, the district administration had added facilities like car parking near the temple and shoe deposition at footwear collection centers for the convenience of the devotees.

Darshan timings at the Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan have been changed by the temple authorities, while security measures at the temple have also been upgraded ahead of Govardhan Puja on Wednesday.

The timing of Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan will change from October 27. The temple is currently open for darshan from 7:30 am to 12 noon and from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Security measures around the temple have also been beefed up ahead of the Govardhan Puja to be held on Wednesday.

Speaking about the change, Munish Sharma, the temple's manager, said, "Now the temple doors will be closed at 1 pm for Rajbhog service. In the morning shift, the temple will open at 8.45 am, and there will be a brief pause till 1 pm. The deity's bhog seva (lunch). In the afternoon session, the temple will open from 4.30 pm to 8.30 pm with a brief break for the deity's bhog (dinner)."

Meanwhile, speaking about the change in security arrangements, Mathura SP (Rural) Trigun Bisen said, "Several lakhs of pilgrims are likely to circumambulate the hill Govardhan. One-way system for 'darshan' at the Dan Ghati temple will be used. Will be strictly followed."

As per reports, adequate force has been deployed at major temples and the Parikrama Marg, while police in plain clothes have also been deployed in all major temples to avoid pickpocketing, chain snatching and misbehavior with women.

Earlier in the month, the district administration intensified arrangements for devotees at the Banke Bihari temple ahead of Diwali celebrations. The celebrations during the festival of lights usually see crowds flocking to the city to offer prayers.

The district administration had added facilities such as shoe deposit facilities at shoe collection centers for car safe and parking space near the temple premises.

Two devotees died and seven others were injured in a stampede at the temple in August, caused by crowds during Janmashtami celebrations.