Archaeological Survey of India starts cleaning of Trimbakeshwar temple in Nashik

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has taken up the work of cleaning of the inner dome of sanctum sanctorum of Trimbakeshwar temple. The Kushwarta pond and two other temples in Nashik will also be cleaned. The cleaning at the temples, preserving its archaeological, traditional and age-old significance, is being undertaken to prepare for the ensuing Kumbh Mela in August.

An ASI team from Aurangabad began the cleaning work from February 1.

The age-old temple, situated in Trimbakeshwar town is about 30km from Nashik. It is listed as a heritage monument by the ASI. As per the norms, no works can be carried out in the temple or its premises without ASI's permission.

The temple trust on many occasions had sought permission to clean the temple, but it not taken seriously till now, stated turstee Kailas Ghuge. "This temple has never been cleaned from the inside. Our job is to make it soot-free and clean the surface of the dirt," stated Dr MR Singh, superintending archaeological chemist, ASI.

The scattered and naked electrical wiring on the inner side of the dome above the Shiv linga also delayed implementation of the cleaning work. It was only after the ASI circle office sanctioned funds to the Central Public Works Department (CPWD), the wires have been concealed. "The cleaning works involves water, chemicals and solvent and as such cannot be done with open wires around. Now that the electrical wiring has been taken care of, we can proceed with our work," stated Dr Singh.

The ASI team will also undertake the cleaning of the Shreekshetra Kushawarta — the holy pond. It is at the Kushawarta that sadhu mahants from different akhadas and pilgrims take a holy bath during the Kumbh Mela.

Three other temples in Trimbakeshwar will also be cleaned. The ASI team will undertake the cleaning work of temples in Nashik including the Sundernarayan temple — which is known for its very unique architecture — and the Nilkantheswar temple. Both temples are on the banks of Godavari river.

The cleaning of the Trimbakeshwar temple will be completed within 3-4 months. The team will work only through the night as it may not be possible to work during the day with thousands of pilgrims visiting every day. The team plans to begin by 10-10.30pm and work till 2am.