Dhar, Jan 23 (NationPress) The ancient Bhojshala complex in Madhya Pradesh's Dhar district resonated with spirituality on Basant Panchami this Friday, as Hindu devotees engaged in prayers and rituals for Goddess Saraswati (Vagdevi) from dawn, following an interim ruling by the Supreme Court issued just a day prior.

This contentious 11th-century site, esteemed by Hindus as a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and recognized by Muslims as the Kamal Maula Mosque, was adorned with exquisite decorations, including saffron flags and over five and a half quintals of flowers throughout the sanctum sanctorum and the entire complex.

The morning prayers commenced early, featuring offerings in the sacrificial fire pit and the Vedarambha ceremony by the pond, where children were instructed on Vedic traditions.

A bench consisting of Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice Vipul M. Pancholi granted permission on Thursday for Hindu rituals and Saraswati Puja to take place from sunrise to sunset, while allowing Muslim devotees to perform Friday (Jumma) namaz between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. in designated areas within the premises.

The Supreme Court's directive also mandated separate entry and exit points for both communities, alongside issuing passes for namaz attendees. It asserted that this arrangement is temporary and specific to Basant Panchami, with no impact on the ongoing broader dispute regarding the site's nature, where the status quo remains until the Madhya Pradesh High Court reaches a final decision.

Images from the site depicted enthusiastic participation in Saraswati Puja amidst a festive atmosphere, showcasing a day of cultural and religious importance that unfolded peacefully under strict security measures.

The court underscored the importance of mutual respect, tolerance, and collaboration with the administration to uphold law and order, acknowledging the Madhya Pradesh government's commitment to ensuring peaceful arrangements.

Gopal Sharma, convener of the Bhojshala Liberation Yagna, expressed support for the court's ruling. To maintain harmony and avert any incidents, the district administration deployed a comprehensive security framework, involving over 8,000 police personnel, including 13 SP-rank officers, 25 ASPs, 67 DSP/CSP-rank officers, 933 female officers, and eight RAF (Rapid Action Force) platoons, with 1,500-2,000 personnel on standby. More than 20 AI drones monitored the area, and 3D mapping was executed for thorough surveillance.