Lucknow: A 400-year-old Lord Shiva temple, located in the Khaggu Sarai area of Sambhal, was reopened on Saturday after remaining locked for 46 years. The reopening was initiated by District Magistrate (DM) Rajendra Pansia and the Superintendent of Police (SP) during a raid to curb electricity theft in the area. The event marks a significant moment for the local Hindu community, as the temple had been closed following the 1978 riots, which resulted in the mass migration of Hindus from the Muslim-majority area.
The temple, which houses a Hanuman idol, had been locked and neglected for decades. Encroachments had surrounded the temple on three sides, and a well near the temple was found buried under construction debris. A ramp had been built over it, concealing its structure. Once the encroachments were removed, the team discovered the well’s remains.
DM Pansia stated, “The temple, believed to be 400-500 years old, was in a dilapidated state when we found it. We immediately got it cleaned and opened its gates. We will hand it over to the community it belongs to.”
As news of the temple reopening spread, several Hindu families gathered at the site to offer prayers. A flag was hoisted, and the first puja in nearly half a century was conducted. Local residents like Sanjay Gupta, chairman of the Shri Ramlila Committee, and Vishnu Shankar Rastogi, an 82-year-old former resident, expressed joy at the temple’s revival.
“This was the temple of our Kulguru Bhasma Shankar,” said Rastogi. “I was born here and witnessed the 1978 riots that forced many Hindu families to leave the area. It is heartwarming to see the temple open again.”
The temple’s closure dates back to the communal riots of 1978, which resulted in the deaths of several people and triggered an exodus of Hindu families. Local accounts suggest that the area, which once housed around 70-80 Hindu Rastogi families, became predominantly Muslim over time. Efforts to reopen the temple were attempted in the past but had failed due to tensions and lack of administrative support.
Additional SP Shrish Chandra revealed, “Investigations showed that parts of the temple land were encroached upon by unauthorized structures. Action will be taken against those responsible.”
Residents expressed mixed emotions, recalling the violence of the past and appreciating the administration’s recent efforts. Atul Gupta, city president of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, said, “This is a momentous step. The temple, once a vibrant center of worship, was abandoned after the riots. Now, regular aarti will be conducted in the mornings and evenings.”
Mukesh Kumar, another local resident, added, “The temple area, which was around 250-300 yards, had been encroached upon. We request the administration to restore the temple fully and protect it.”
SDM Vandana assured the public that encroachments around the temple would be removed, and efforts would be made to ensure the temple remains accessible. “Local people have told us about a peepal tree that used to stand near the temple but was cut down. We will take action to restore the sanctity of the temple area,” she said.
This reopening serves as a poignant reminder of Sambhal’s complex communal history, while offering hope for reconciliation and preservation of cultural heritage. For now, the sound of bells and chants from the temple once again echo through the lanes of Khaggu Sarai.
