Sambhal
UP NEWS. Amid tight security arrangements, a grand Holi celebration was held for the first time in 46 years at Kartikeya Mahadev Temple in Khaggu Sarai on Thursday. The temple, which was closed after the 1978 riots, was reopened in December last year, after which devotees celebrated Holi with gaiety for the first time this year. On this historic occasion, people from Hindu and social organizations gathered at the temple and enjoyed the festival with flowers and colors.
Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shrish Chandra informed that security arrangements were made in the temple and surrounding areas to avoid any untoward incident. Along with this, he also told that Holi is being celebrated peacefully in Kartikeya Mahadev temple. Everyone is enjoying the festival in a safe environment.
The Kartikeya Mahadev temple was closed for the last 46 years. The temple is located near the Shahi Jama Masjid, where the situation became tense due to communal violence in November 2024. On 24 November 2024, violence broke out after protests during a court-ordered survey of the mosque, in which 4 people died.
Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) district president Anand Agarwal expressed happiness and said that after 46 years we have got the privilege of playing Holi in Kartikeya Mahadev temple. People from various social organizations have gathered here and are celebrating with colors. Devotees who came to participate in the Holi festival appreciated the arrangements made by the police-administration. Participant Priyanshu Jain said that the police have made excellent security arrangements and everyone is enthusiastically immersed in the festival.
This temple was reopened by the administration on 13 December 2023. Officials said that the covered structure of the temple was revealed during an encroachment removal campaign. The idol of Lord Hanuman and a Shivlinga are located in this temple.
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