Major Verdict on Centuries-Old Dispute: Survey Spanned 98 Days; Major Victory for Temple Side; ASI Report Became Base of MP High Court's Ruling
On Friday, the Indore Bench of the High Court delivered a significant verdict regarding the historic Bhojshala dispute located in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh. Relying on the detailed survey report submitted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) as its primary basis, the court recognized Bhojshala as the temple of Vagdevi (Goddess Saraswati) and granted the Hindu side the right to conduct regular worship.
The court explicitly stated that Namaz will no longer be permitted within the premises, while the responsibility for the conservation and maintenance of the entire complex has been entrusted to the ASI. While the verdict has sparked an atmosphere of jubilation among Hindu organizations, the Muslim side has initiated preparations to appeal the decision in the Supreme Court.
Bhojshala Built by King Bhoj as a Center for Education and Culture
According to historians, the Bhojshala in Dhar was constructed by King Bhoj of the Parmar dynasty around the year 1034. It was developed as a prominent center for the worship of Goddess Saraswati and for Sanskrit education. Its defining features have long included a vast courtyard, intricately carved stone pillars, and designated prayer areas.
Even after the demise of King Bhoj, academic studies and religious activities continued to flourish within the complex for many years. However, as time passed, conflicting claims regarding the complex began to emerge, and this dispute gradually evolved into a protracted legal battle.
A Dispute Dating Back to 1935: Separate Arrangements for Worship and Namaz
During the British era, on August 24, 1935, a notification was issued by the Dhar Darbar designating this site as a mosque and granting the Muslim community permission to offer Namaz there. \
In the 1990s, Hindu organizations intensified their demands to have the site declared a Saraswati Temple. Following the escalating dispute, the administration implemented a system allowing for Hindu worship (Puja) on Tuesdays and Muslim prayers (Namaz) on Fridays.
In 2003, following violent tensions during the festival of Basant Panchami, the Central Government granted both parties permission to conduct religious activities for a limited period.
ASI Survey Using Modern Technology Initiated
In 2022, the Hindu Front for Justice filed a petition in the Indore High Court seeking a ban on Namaz at the Bhojshala complex and demanding full worship rights for Hindus. Subsequently, in February 2024, a demand arose for a survey to be conducted using modern technology.
On March 11, 2024, the High Court ordered the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to conduct an investigation. A team of 75 experts drawn from across the country surveyed the complex continuously for 98 days. During this period, ground scanning, excavation, photography, and structural assessments were carried out. A 242-page report detailing the findings of the survey was submitted to the court.
ASI Report Reveals Temple Architecture and Images of Deities
The survey report stated that 188 pillars were discovered within the complex, the architecture of which aligns with the temple style. During the investigation, images of deities, ancient carvings, and Sanskrit inscriptions also came to light. The inscription "Om Saraswatyai Namah" was found etched on two of the pillars—evidence that the Hindu side has cited as strong corroboration for their claims.
The report further noted that remnants of an ancient temple had been utilized in the construction of the current structure. Several idols and artistically carved stones were also unearthed during the excavation, and recommendations have been made to ensure their preservation.
Demand to Bring Back Vagdevi Idol Gains Momentum Following Court Verdict
Following the High Court's verdict, the demand to repatriate the idol of Goddess Vagdevi—currently housed in a London museum—to India has intensified. Hindu organizations have hailed this as a historic act of justice.
Conversely, the Muslim side has signaled its intention to challenge the ruling. While the matter may well reach the Supreme Court in the coming days, for the time being, the most significant legal ruling regarding the Dhar Bhojshala appears to be tilting in favor of the Hindu side.