An ancient Shiva temple in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal district closed since 1978, has been rediscovered and reopened during an anti-encroachment drive, officials confirmed on December 14. Authorities also uncovered an ancient well buried under debris at the site, adding to its historical significance.
Discovery Amid Encroachment Complaints
Sambhal Circle Officer (CO) Anuj Kumar Chaudhary revealed that the temple was found while investigating reports of encroachment. “We received information about encroachment in the area. During inspection, we discovered the presence of a temple,” Chaudhary told ANI.
A Shiva temple in Sambhal, closed for 46 years has been reopened by Yogi Adityanath’s administration.
The temple had been closed since 1978 and is now accessible to the public once again pic.twitter.com/xX0Y6M8Bri
— Organiser Weekly (@eOrganiser) December 14, 2024
Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vandana Mishra, who also visited the site, stated that the temple was uncovered during a campaign against electricity theft. “Residents informed us that the temple had been closed since 1978. It has now been reopened and cleaned. Encroachments surrounding the temple are being removed,” she said.
History of the Temple Closure
Vishnu Sharan Rastogi, patron of the Nagar Hindu Sabha, recounted the temple’s closure in 1978. He attributed the abandonment to the lack of a resident priest and families leaving the area. “This is a temple of Bhagwan Shiva. After 1978, we moved out and were unable to maintain it. No pandit was willing to stay here. Today, after 46 years, the temple has been reopened,” Rastogi told ANI.
Discovery of Ancient Well
District Magistrate (DM) Rajendra Pensiya disclosed that an ancient well was found near the temple after clearing a ramp and debris. “A ramp had been constructed over the well. Once it was removed, the well was uncovered. Restoration and cleaning of the temple and well are ongoing,” Pensiya stated.
Anti-Encroachment Drive and Restoration
The discovery occurred during a broader anti-encroachment and electricity theft campaign in the Shahi Jama Masjid area. Officials, including Additional Superintendent of Police Shrish Chandra, are overseeing the cleanup and restoration efforts.
The reopening of the long-forgotten temple has sparked interest among locals and historians, highlighting its cultural and historical importance to the region.
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