Is the Vrindavan Corridor Essential to Manage the Crowd and Benefit All?
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Synopsis
In a passionate appeal, Hema Malini emphasizes the urgent need for the Vrindavan corridor project to address the overwhelming crowds at the Banke Bihari temple. She highlights the government's commitment to compensating affected locals and underscores the importance of proper crowd management.
Key Takeaways
- Urgent need for a corridor to manage temple crowds.
- Compensation plans for affected locals have been promised.
- Concerns about sanctity and commercialization from the Goswamis.
- Recent Supreme Court ruling allows project progress.
- The bypass project aims to alleviate local congestion.
Mathura, June 3 (NationPress) Renowned actress and three-time Mathura MP Hema Malini has urged the Goswamis of Vrindavan to initiate the development of the corridor, stating that the current temple infrastructure is insufficient to accommodate the vast number of devotees visiting. In a candid conversation with IANS, Hema emphasized the urgency of the Rs 500 crore Banke Bihari temple corridor project, declaring, “it’s now or never.”
To ease the concerns of local shopkeepers, property owners, and renters worried about potential losses during the corridor's redevelopment, Hema reassured them that the Yogi Adityanath government has committed to compensating those who lose their properties, even those without proper paperwork, and providing new shops for those affected.
She warned that failing to construct the corridor would exacerbate the existing problems. Addressing the Goswamis' opposition to the initiative, she remarked, “They should understand the need for proper crowd management. Allowing 5,000 people into a space meant for 50 is dangerous.”
Due to the overwhelming crowd, many individuals leave without having a darshan of the deity, further stressing the need for the corridor.
Hema Malini pledged to address any issues that may arise during the project's execution. She reiterated her appeal to the Goswamis to allow the corridor work to commence, stating, “If it is not done now, it will never happen.”
Moreover, she highlighted the approval of the Vrindavan bypass project, which is expected to commence soon and will help direct devotees away from the main city, alleviating local residents' concerns about navigating through large crowds.
The Goswamis have voiced their opposition to the corridor and threaten to relocate the Banke Bihari deity, claiming that the government intends to transform this sacred space into a tourist attraction.
On May 15, the Supreme Court granted permission for the Uttar Pradesh government to proceed with the Vrindavan corridor project.
Point of View
It’s imperative to recognize the nuanced perspective on the Vrindavan corridor project. While Hema Malini’s appeal highlights an urgent need for infrastructure to manage crowds, the concerns raised by the Goswamis reflect a deep-rooted attachment to the sanctity of the temple. A balanced approach that respects both local heritage and the needs of devotees is essential.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Vrindavan corridor project?
The Vrindavan corridor project aims to manage the overwhelming crowds visiting the Banke Bihari temple, ensuring safety and a better experience for devotees.
How much is the corridor project estimated to cost?
The estimated cost of the Banke Bihari temple corridor project is Rs 500 crore.
What assurances has the government made to affected locals?
The Yogi Adityanath government has promised compensation for those losing property during the project's redevelopment, including new shops for affected vendors.
What are the concerns of the Goswamis regarding the project?
The Goswamis oppose the project, fearing it will commercialize the temple area and threaten the sanctity of the Banke Bihari deity.
What recent legal development occurred regarding the project?
On May 15, the Supreme Court allowed the Uttar Pradesh government to proceed with the Vrindavan corridor project.
