Srinagar: The Martand Sun Temple, an ancient site of spiritual significance in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, is witnessing a remarkable revival, thanks to the proactive efforts of the government. Once abandoned and neglected for centuries, this historic temple is now undergoing significant infrastructure development, reflecting the government's commitment to restoring and preserving this sacred site.
In April 2024, a crucial meeting was convened to discuss the future of the Martand Sun Temple. While the media largely overlooked the decisions made during this meeting, the impact is now visible on the ground. Worship at the temple, which resumed last year after a puja conducted by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, is now supported by rapidly developing infrastructure, making the temple more accessible to devotees.
The government is currently constructing a Yatri Niwas (pilgrim accommodation) near the Martand Sun Temple. This facility will include numerous rooms and essential amenities, ensuring that Hindu pilgrims can worship comfortably without any inconvenience. The Yatri Niwas will also provide a safe and secure environment for visitors, reflecting the government's focus on improving the overall pilgrimage experience.
In addition to the Yatri Niwas, a grand Shiva temple is also being built near the Sun Temple. This initiative aims to enhance the spiritual offerings of the site and attract more devotees. The foundation stone for the construction work was laid on August 10, 2024, by KK Siddha, Special Secretary of the Finance Department, in a ceremony attended by members of the Martand Tirtha Trust and a large gathering of Kashmiri Hindus.
The Martand Sun Temple, located in the Kehribal area of Mattan, approximately 63 kilometers south of Srinagar, is one of the oldest Sun temples in India. It is a symbol of the country's rich ancient spiritual heritage and architectural prowess. The recent developments around the temple highlight the government's dedication to preserving this invaluable cultural site.
This renewed focus on the Martand Sun Temple is part of a broader effort to restore and secure ancient temples in Kashmir. A significant meeting held on April 1, 2024, discussed the restoration and preservation of these historic sites. The government has also been working on legislation to facilitate worship in such ancient temples, despite previous restrictions imposed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
The Martand Sun Temple has long been a target of misrepresentation and neglect. Islamic fundamentalists once referred to the area as "Satan's Cave," and this false narrative was even propagated in Bollywood and educational platforms. In 2014, Vishal Bhardwaj's film "Haider" faced widespread criticism for depicting the temple as "Satan's Cave" in a song, sparking outrage among Hindus.
Despite these challenges, the Martand Sun Temple is now experiencing a renaissance. More than a hundred devotees gathered at the temple in May 2022, performing puja and reciting the Bhagavad Gita. The devotees carried saffron flags with the inscription "Om" and the national tricolor, symbolizing their deep spiritual connection to the site.
The recent construction of the Yatri Niwas and Shiva temple marks a turning point in the temple's history. As more devotees begin to visit the Martand Sun Temple, the false narratives and derogatory terms associated with it are likely to fade away. The government's efforts are paving the way for the temple to reclaim its rightful place as a revered site of Hindu worship and cultural heritage.
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