Hindus given full access to Bhojshala complex: ASI

NEW DELHI: Keeping with the Madhya Pradesh high court's order, ASI has allowed full access to Hindus to the Bhojhshala complex for worship of Goddess Saraswati.

Drawing from HC's May 15 verdict, ASI said the court ruled that Bhojshala in Dhar district is a protected monument and a temple of Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati).

"The court has also recorded a finding that historical literature established the character of Bhojshala as a centre of Sanskrit learning associated with Raja Bhoj of the Parmar dynasty," the ASI order dated May 16 stated. It added that literature and architectural references linked to Raja Bhoj indicate the existence of a Saraswati temple, supported by ASI research.

The order said the court quashed ASI's April 2003 directive restricting Hindu worship rights and permitting Muslim prayers at the complex. The new ASI order stated since Bhojshala was a centre of Sanskrit learning and a temple dedicated to Goddess Vagdevi, the Hindu community "shall have unrestricted access" for worship.