Ujjain, Dec 26 (NationPress) The renowned Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple, celebrated as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, has experienced an extraordinary increase in both visitors and financial donations this year.

Records from the temple committee indicate that from January 1 to December 15 of this year, the temple has garnered over Rs 107 crore from donation boxes and ticket sales.

This impressive total encompasses 592.366 kilograms of silver and 1,483.621 grams of gold, valued at over Rs 13 crore.

The overall income for this year is nearing Rs 1 billion, which is Rs 15 crore higher than last year’s Rs 92 crore.

Pratham Kaushik, the temple's administrator, stated that the unwavering faith of devotees has resulted in record-breaking donations, enriching Baba Mahakal's treasury with gold, silver, cash, and offerings from all corners of the nation.

On average, the temple attracts approximately 1.20 lakh devotees daily, while weekends see an influx of between 1.5 to 1.75 lakh visitors.

"On regular days, 1.20 lakh devotees visit. On weekends, we see between 1.5 to 1.75 lakh attendees. Since January 1, over 5.5 crore devotees have visited the temple. We anticipate around 6 lakh devotees between December 25 and January 31, further enhancing the temple's income," he explained.

The grand construction of the Mahakal Mahalok corridor has significantly boosted the temple's allure, drawing larger crowds and increasing donations.

Devotees contribute not only through cash and precious metals but also by purchasing quick darshan tickets and laddoo prasad, which have emerged as substantial revenue sources.

Officials noted that this revenue does not include earnings from Bhasma Aarti bookings, Abhishek Puja, Annakshetra (community kitchen), guesthouse bookings, photography fees, monthly charges, bhang and flag bookings, and the Ujjain Darshan bus service.

With just five days left in the year, the temple anticipates additional contributions, potentially setting a new benchmark in its financial history.

Administrator Kaushik emphasized that the devotion expressed by pilgrims has been truly remarkable.

The Mahakal Temple remains a beacon of unwavering faith, with its increasing income symbolizing the deep devotion of millions who come to seek blessings from Baba Mahakal.