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Liquor Ban in Madhya Pradesh Sparks Debate Over Kal Bhairav Temple Traditions

The liquor ban in religious cities of Madhya Pradesh raises questions about Kal Bhairav Mandir in Ujjain, where liquor is offered as 'prasad.'
 
Liquor Ban in Madhya Pradesh Sparks Debate Over Kal Bhairav Temple Traditions

Madhya Pradesh’s decision to ban liquor in 19 holy towns, including Ujjain, has sparked a debate over the future of unique temple traditions at the famed Kal Bhairav Mandir. Known for its practice of offering liquor as prasad, the temple faces uncertainty regarding how this prohibition will impact devotees.

Chief Minister’s Stance on Liquor Traditions

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav clarified that while liquor shops in Ujjain Municipal Corporation limits will close from April 1, traditions at Kal Bhairav Mandir may remain unaffected. “You may take the prasad to the temple,” Yadav remarked, hinting at an exception for the temple's long-standing customs.

Temple Traditions and Liquor Offerings

Temple priest Om Prakash Chaturvedi explained that offering liquor to Lord Kal Bhairav is an ancient practice deeply rooted in tradition. The deity is considered “Tamasic,” and offerings of alcohol are seen as integral to worship. Even during past bans, such as during the Simhastha festival in 2016, liquor offerings continued uninterrupted.

The state government has historically provided liquor counters outside the temple to ensure devotees have access to alcohol for offerings, preventing exploitation by private vendors.

Government Decision Pending on Liquor Prasad

Assistant Commissioner (Excise) Rajnarayan Soni stated that the issue of liquor prasad is yet to be decided by the government. Currently, two government-supervised liquor counters operate outside the temple. While these counters ensure proper access for offerings, their future remains uncertain under the new ban.

Prohibition Across Religious Cities

The liquor ban in Ujjain is part of a broader initiative to prohibit alcohol sales in Madhya Pradesh’s holy cities. The ban will not involve relocating shops but instead shutting them down entirely. Yadav hinted that similar bans will be systematically introduced in other locations across the state.

Cultural Significance and Modern Challenges

The Kal Bhairav Mandir’s liquor offerings highlight the intersection of religious traditions and modern governance. While the ban aims to curb alcohol consumption, it also brings challenges in balancing age-old practices with contemporary regulations.

As Madhya Pradesh moves toward prohibition in holy towns, the Kal Bhairav Mandir stands at a crossroads. With liquor being an integral part of its rituals, the government faces the challenge of ensuring cultural traditions are respected while implementing the ban.

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