What is the gold-copper dispute arising in the Kedarnath temple, the abode of Lord Bhole? Know in 10 things you…

Last year, an incident surrounding the Kedarnath temple came to light, where the walls of its sanctum sanctorum were embellished with gold plating. This sacred site is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, holding great religious significance. However, Tirth Purohit Santosh Trivedi raised serious allegations of a scam worth 1.5 billion, claiming that instead of using genuine gold, copper plates were utilized in the plating process. These allegations cast doubt on the authenticity of the gold plating at Kedarnath temple, echoing similar concerns that arose in relation to the Kashi Vishwanath and Somnath temples.

Last year, a remarkable event took place at the Kedarnath temple, one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas, located at a breathtaking altitude of 11,700 feet above sea level. The temple’s sanctum sanctorum underwent an exquisite gold plating, similar to what was done at the revered Kashi Vishwanath and Somnath temples. The generous contribution from the Lakhi family of Maharashtra made this remarkable endeavor possible. Their support enabled the temple to enhance its beauty and spiritual significance, leaving a lasting impression on the devotees who visit this revered site.

The sanctum sanctorum of Kedarnath temple was gold-plated in 2022

1. Recently, a pilgrimage priest named Santosh Trivedi raised grave concerns regarding the gold plating that took place in the sanctum sanctorum of the Kedarnath temple last year. A video of his allegations went viral on various online media platforms, garnering significant attention. Trivedi’s statements have brought the authenticity of the gold plating into question, casting a shadow of doubt over the previously celebrated endeavor. The allegations have sparked widespread discussions and investigations into the matter, causing a stir among devotees and the general public alike.
2. Tirth Purohit Santosh Trivedi made a serious accusation, claiming that a scam worth one and a half billion occurred during the gold plating of the Kedarnath temple. Trivedi alleged that instead of using gold, copper plates were deceitfully employed. He further warned that if the matter wasn’t thoroughly investigated, he and his supporters would resort to agitation. Following these allegations, a wave of commotion rippled through the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC), prompting discussions and deliberations on how to address the situation and ensure transparency in the temple’s affairs.
3. The Shree Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has dismissed the social media confusion surrounding the gold plating of the sanctum sanctorum at the Shree Kedarnath temple, considering it a part of a conspiracy. Harish Gaur, the media in charge, clarified that the donation was accepted from the donor in accordance with the provisions specified in the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee Act of 1939. According to Gaur, the donor personally arranged for the copper plates to be prepared by jewelers, subsequently applying layers of gold to these plates before having them installed in the temple through the same jewelers. This explanation aims to address the concerns and clarify the process behind the gold plating of the temple.
4. During an inspection of the reconstruction efforts, Officer on Special Duty Bhaskar Khulve and Tourism Secretary Sachin Kurve interacted with the artisans responsible for applying the gold layer at the Kedarnath temple. Following their discussions, both officials expressed contentment and satisfaction with the quality of work carried out. Their positive assessment adds credibility to the process and provides reassurance regarding the authenticity of the gold plating. It serves as a testament to the efforts and skills of the artisans involved in the temple’s reconstruction.
5. In 2022, the Shri Badri-Kedar Temple Committee (BKTC) undertook the task of gold plating the sanctum sanctorum of the Kedarnath temple with the generous support of the Lakhi family from Maharashtra. Notably, this family had previously made a significant contribution to the Badrinath Dham in 2004 by donating a gold throne. Their continued involvement and support highlight their deep devotion and commitment to the preservation and beautification of these sacred temples. Their contributions have played a pivotal role in enhancing the spiritual ambiance and grandeur of these revered pilgrimage sites.
6. The process of gold plating the sanctum sanctorum of the Kedarnath temple involved several steps. Firstly, the silver layer was removed from the walls, making way for copper plates. These copper plates were then transported to Maharashtra for the gold plating procedure. Under strict security measures, the gold-plated plates were transported from Maharashtra, passing through Delhi, and ultimately reaching Gaurikund. From there, with the assistance of mules, they were safely transported to Kedarnath Dham on the evening of October 23rd. The temple committee ensured the plates’ security by storing them in a room equipped with CCTV cameras. Even during the installation process within the sanctum sanctorum, adequate security arrangements were made to safeguard the valuable additions.
7. Previously, the sanctum sanctorum of the Kedarnath temple was adorned with a silver lining. In 2017, the Shri Badri-Kedar Temple Committee (BKTC) embarked on a project to enhance its beauty by silver plating the four walls of the sanctum sanctorum. With the support of a generous donor, the silver plating was successfully completed. However, in a subsequent endeavor, the BKTC decided to elevate the sanctum sanctorum’s splendor further by replacing the silver plating with gold. Under the guidance of two experts from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the task of gold plating the walls was carried out, culminating in the completion of the beautification project. The efforts were aimed at preserving the sanctity and grandeur of the sacred space for devotees.
8. A team consisting of six members from IIT Roorkee, Central Building Research Institute (CBRI) Roorkee, and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) conducted a thorough inspection of the Kedarnath temple. After their evaluation, the team granted approval for the gold plating of the sanctum sanctorum. Their expertise and assessment played a crucial role in ensuring the structural integrity and suitability of the temple for the gilding process. This approval further validated the decision to proceed with the gold plating, assuring that the project adhered to appropriate standards and guidelines set by these esteemed institutions.
9. The gold plating of the sanctum sanctorum in Kedar Baba’s temple was successfully accomplished within a remarkable timeframe of 42 days. The project commenced on September 13, 2022, with the initial phase involving the removal of the silver layers within the sanctum sanctorum. Subsequently, a copper plate was prepared, serving as the foundation for the gold plating process. From October 23 onwards, a team of 35 dedicated artisans worked tirelessly day and night, under the supervision of experts, to execute the intricate task of gold plating. Their diligent efforts led to the completion of the project on Wednesday morning, showcasing their skill and commitment to the preservation and beautification of the revered temple.
10. In addition to the four walls of the 12 feet by 12 feet sanctum sanctorum, the Kedarnath temple has also received a gold plating on the Jalhari (grille) and Chhatra (umbrella). A remarkable total of 550 layers of gold, varying in sizes, have been meticulously plated. These layers of gold have been skillfully adorned with intricately crafted depictions of Lord Ganesha and various members of the Shiva family. The addition of these exquisite gold-plated elements, including the decorative grille and umbrella, enhances the aesthetic appeal of the temple, adding a touch of divine beauty and reverence to the sacred space.

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