In Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal, authorities have found damaged idols inside the well of the Bhasma Shankar temple, which reopened on December 14 after being closed for 46 years.
Search during anti-encroachment drive
The temple was reopened as a result of a massive anti-encroachment operation aimed at removing unauthorized structures in the area. During this process, the temple, previously hidden by the illegal construction, was exposed. After excavation of a well inside the temple complex, three damaged idols including representations of Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya were recovered.
Officials’ response
Sambhal Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Sreesh Chandra said the idols were found while cleaning and filling the well with debris and soil. The area has been protected to facilitate further excavation and conservation efforts. ASP Chandra said, “There is an idol of Ganesha, another appears to be of Lord Kartikeya. More details are being sought.”
Community involvement
Since the re-opening of the temple, devotees have been actively involved in the restoration of the site. They have painted religious slogans like ‘Om Namah Shivay’, ‘Har Har Mahadeva’ on the walls of the temple. The administration has implemented measures such as cleanliness of the premises, restoration of electricity connection, installation of CCTV cameras for security to facilitate worship.
The Bhasmashankar Temple, which will be reopened after decades, has become very popular. Officials have reportedly approached the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for carbon dating to determine the age and historical significance of the recovered idols.
The anti-encroachment campaign continues in Sambhal, focusing on reclaiming public spaces and addressing issues such as unauthorized construction and electricity theft. The discovery of temples and statues has added a cultural and historical dimension to ongoing efforts in the region.