Authorities have increased security around a centuries-old Shiva temple recently rediscovered in Varanasi’s Madanpur area. This follows the recovery of three idols from a well near another ancient temple in Sambhal last week.
The rediscovered temple in Varanasi, believed to be approximately 250 years old, is identified as the Siddheshwar Mahadev Temple. Located near the Dashashwamedh police station, it came to light during ongoing works in the area. Municipal Commissioner Akshat Verma stated that further action concerning the temple’s management and preservation would be determined by the police.
“Whatever action has to be taken, has to be done by the Police. I can’t comment in this regard… The concerned department is taking action,” Verma said.
Sambhal Temple Discovery and Reopening
In Sambhal district, the Shiva-Hanuman Temple, closed since 1978, was reopened on December 14 during an encroachment clearance operation. During the process, three idols were unearthed from a well near the temple.
Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shrish Chandra provided details about the idols:
“These are broken idols that were found during the digging of the well. There is an idol of Lord Ganesh. The other one seems to be of Lord Kartikeya, more details are being sought. The area has been secured so that excavation can be done smoothly.”
Prayers and rites have resumed at the reopened temple, with devotees painting slogans such as ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ and ‘Har Har Mahadeva’ on its walls.
Community Reaction
Vishnu Sharan Rastogi, patron of the Nagar Hindu Sabha, emphasized the significance of reopening the Sambhal temple after 46 years, noting its closure due to the lack of a resident priest. The rediscovery of the idols and reopening of the temple have been met with enthusiasm among local devotees, who have hailed it as a moment of cultural and spiritual revival.