New rules, change in timings at Tarapith Kali Temple
Times of India | 18 December 2024
123 Kolkata: From Tuesday, the Tarapith Kali temple implemented several new regulations for devotees and sevaits, including changes in the temple timings. The temple committee and Birbhum district administration jointly established these rules to enhance devotee convenience and maintain proper temple rituals. Following recent unfortunate events that raised concerns about temple operations, these regulations were finalised in a high-level meeting on Monday, attended by Birbhum district magistrate Bidhan Ray.
The new protocol requires visitors to deposit mobile phones at the main entrance, unlike previously when phones were allowed within the temple premises but not in the sanctum sanctorum. Whilst queuing to enter the sanctum sanctorum, devotees must hand over puja items to the priest. Direct application of sindoor and coconut breaking inside the sanctum sanctorum are now prohibited.
To address irregular temple timings caused by overcrowding, fixed visiting hours have been established. The temple opens for general visitors at 5.30 am, with afternoon closure from 12 noon to 1.30 pm, and evening closure from 5 pm to 6 pm. Only the temple authority will be permitted to distribute prasad within the temple compound.
Visitor entry is now organised through two queues: a free general line and a special line requiring a paid coupon from the temple committee office. General darshan commences one hour before special darshan. Visitors must wear appropriate attire.
Taramoy Mukherjee, president of the temple committee said, "Some guidelines were there but hereafter those would be followed strictly. Not only the visitors but the sevaits (paladars) and priests too have to follow certain rules. If all of us follow discipline only then we'll be blessed by Ma Tara." Pulak Chatterjee, a sevait said, "We welcome the newly introduced rules."