• Source:JND

The Madhya Pradesh High Court's Indore Bench on Friday delivered a significant verdict on the Bhojshala complex in Dhar, recognising it as a temple dedicated to Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati). The court also directed the authorities to explore efforts to bring back the idol of the goddess, which is believed to be currently housed in a British museum in London.

How Did The Idol End Up In British Museum?

According to historical accounts, the Bhojshala was established during the reign of King Bhoja in the 11th century as a centre of learning and worship. King Bhoja's reign spanned from the years 1010 to 1053. During his reign, the king built several temples and is also believed to have established the Bhojshala in Dhar. It is said that British officials discovered the idol of Goddess Vagdevi during an excavation in 1875 and later took it to England, where it has remained ever since.

Will The Idol Be Brought Back?

The ruling has renewed discussions around the cultural and historical importance of the site, as well as the possible return of the idol to India. Following the verdict, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said the state government would support efforts to implement the court’s directions and work with the central government on the possible repatriation of the idol.

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In a post on X, CM Yadav wrote, “The dignity of Bhojshala will be further strengthened under the protection and management of the ASI, and the right of devotees to perform worship will be ensured. The directive to the Central Government to consider bringing the idol of Maa Vagdevi back from the UK to India is commendable. The state government will also make necessary efforts in this direction.”

The Hindu side regards the site as a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and an ancient center of learning. Conversely, the Muslim side has consistently asserted that it is the Kamal Maula Mosque, while the Jain community claims it was a medieval Jain temple and Gurukul. However, following the High Court's recent verdict, the Bhojshala complex has now been officially designated as a temple.

ALSO READ: Inscriptions, Idols, Pillars: 9 Key Scientific Findings That Led Court To Declare Bhojshala A Temple


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