Nashik, Maharashtra - Controversy has erupted shortly before actress Prajakta Mali's scheduled performance at the Trimbakeshwar Temple, one of India’s twelve revered Jyotirlingas, on Mahashivratri. The performance, termed ‘Shivarpanamastu,’ is intended to pay homage to Lord Shiva through classical dance, but it has sparked opposition from various quarters.
Just before the scheduled event, which is set to take place on February 25, 2025, several individuals, including former trustee Lalita Shinde, have voiced strong objections. Shinde argues, "Mahashivratri is a sacred occasion; only religious programs should be held," emphasizing the need to preserve the temple's traditional atmosphere.
Adding to the tension, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) issued a formal notice indicating the performance's potential violation of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act, which governs activities around protected monuments. The ASI cautioned temple authorities to seek permission from their headquarters prior to hosting any cultural events.
Responding to the mounting criticism, Manoj Thete, one of the trustees at the temple, clarified, "This is a classical programme and not any folk dance show," defending Mali’s right to perform as per the temple’s tradition. He expressed confusion over the public outcry, stating, "We wonder what people are objecting to?"
Prajakta Mali herself, who has trained extensively in Bharatnatyam and holds degrees in classical dance, noted, "I am following the tradition of the temple and presenting only classical dance. People should not trust rumors." She reassured potential attendees and critics alike, stating, "If there are fears concerning crowd control, the decisions made by the temple trust and local police will be binding on me."
The root of the controversy lies not solely with the performance but touches broader issues of law and cultural heritage. Shinde’s plea for the temple not to stage the event revolves around concerns over safety, with potential crowd surges threatening the security of attendees and the sanctity of the services. "The temple trustees should take seriously the fact no such programme was organized at the temple in the past," she remarked, urging for respect toward tradition.
The uproar has reached the offices of the ASI, which has also questioned the alleged Rs 200 VIP darshan fees being charged at the site, pointing out this practice could infringe upon the same AMASR Act regulations. Such financial arrangements at non-ticketed monuments are prohibited, according to the ASI.
While figures like Shinde argue against the performance's commercialization, others, including the temple trustees, express hope for inclusion of diverse programs within the sacred space, believing it honors the historical spirit of the temple. “Over the years, many artists have performed here; this is part of our cultural heritage,” Thete emphasized.
According to reports, the temple will remain open for 41 hours over Mahashivratri, welcoming millions of devotees for darshan and celebrations. Numerous cultural activities are planned during the festival, including traditional performances Other events outline the planned offerings for religious observances, among which Mali's dance is slated for 8 PM on February 25.
Given the scale of opposition and the substantial legal parameters outlined by the ASI, it appears the fate of Prajakta Mali's performance hangs precariously. The temple trust anticipates making a decision soon, but neither Mali nor the trust has publicly attributed any final resolution to the growing controversy.
The environment around this sacred site—rich with devotion and deep-seated traditions—is now confronted with questions about the role of celebrity performances endemic to modern festivities. Will the temple embrace this new direction, or strip away the commercial influence to maintain its historical essence? One thing is clear: this Mahashivratri will be marked by debates as much as by rituals, as traditionalists clash with modern influences.