Navgrah Ashtamangalam Pooja performed for first time at J&K’s Martand Sun Temple destroyed by Muslim invader 600 years ago

The Martand Sun Temple in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag, that was destroyed by Sikandar Butshikan – the 6th Sultan of the Shah Miri dynasty over 600 years ago, was thronged by over a hundred devotees on Sunday as they performed the Navgarh Ashtamangalam Pooja for the first time in the ruins of the temple in celebration of Shankara Jayanti.

Amongst the devotees was Jammu And Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who visited the temple, conducted rituals and chanted verses from the Gita and Hanuman Chalisa.

In his tweet, Lt Governor said, “Government is committed to protect and develop ancient sites of cultural & religious significance, transforming them into vibrant centers that will guide us on the path of righteousness and blesses this beautiful land with peace, happiness and prosperity.”

It is believed that the temple, that is an excellent specimen of Kashmiri architecture- a blend of Gandharan, Gupta and Chinese styles, was so well-built that Sultan Sikander spent two years destroying the temple.

For many years after, the structure, just like many other Hindu temples in the valley was lying neglected and on the verge of destruction.

There had been many calls by the Kashmiri Pandit community to restore the temple and start worship and rituals at its premises regularly. As the internet got flooded with many sharing pictures and videos of the divine celebrations, people lauded yet another reclamation of the lost Hindu Temples in Jammu and Kashmir under the Modi rule.

ASI vs J&K Administration over Puja at Protected Site

However, the Puja at Martand Sun Temple has erupted in controversy after the ASI raised the issue of the ritual being in violation of rules with the J&K administration. ASI officials maintained that no permission was sought from the conservation body for tye ritual.

“While the LG did not hold the prayers inside the temple, but outside it, even that is a violation of 7(1) of the 1959 Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act under which meetings, receptions, parties, entertainment or conferences can’t be held at a protected monument without permission in writing from the Centre”, an ASI official said.

The J&K administration, however, has reiterated that no permission was required for Lt Sinha to conduct a puja at the temple. The event was allowed under rule 7(2) of the Act, which states “nothing in sub-rule (1) shall apply to any meeting, reception, party, conference or entertainment, which is held in pursuance of a recognised religious usage or custom”.

The ruins of the 8th century Martand Sun temple stand as a protected site under the charge of the Archaeological Survey of India. The 8th century Temple is one of the oldest sun temples in India and a symbol of invaluable ancient spiritual heritage.