Ujjain: The Mahakal Temple Management Committee has been issued a final warning to remove the photo of the temple’s peak and the sacred symbol ‘Om’ from the packets of Laddu Prasad. This directive follows a petition filed by prominent religious figures, including Mahant Sukhdevanand Brahmachari, Guru Shrimahant Yoganand, Brahmachari Shri Shambhu Panch Agni Akhara from Chhatribagh, Indore, and Pt. Sharad Kumar Mishra, Guru Swami Radhakantacharya Maharaj from Shri Durgashakti Peeth, Mhow.
Despite a court order issued on April 24 by the Indore High Court Bench, the images have not yet been removed. The court had mandated the removal within 90 days, but the committee requested additional time. Now, four months later, the images remain on the packets.
High Court lawyer Abhisht Mishra, representing the petitioners, has labeled this as contempt of court. He emphasized that the committee has been given a 10-day ultimatum to comply with the order. Mishra highlighted that devotees often discard the empty packets, which he argues is disrespectful to Sanatan Dharma.
The controversy centers on the belief that throwing away packets bearing sacred images is an insult to the religion. The petitioners argue that the temple committee’s delay in redesigning the packets shows a lack of respect for the court’s order and the sentiments of the devotees.
The Mahakal Temple’s Laddu Prasad is highly revered and sought after by devotees from across the country and abroad. The packets, available in various sizes, are a significant part of the temple’s offerings. The committee has been urged to expedite the redesign process to avoid further legal action and uphold the sanctity of the religious symbols.
