Kolhapur: Conservation and preservation work on the Vitthal-Rukmini idols at the Pandharpur temple began on Sept 22 under the guidance of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The temple remains closed to devotees during the process and is scheduled to reopen on Sept 26.




On the first day, the idols were scientifically cleaned, photographed, video-recorded and digitally documented using advanced technology. A protective coating was then applied, followed by the Vajralepan process on Thursday.




Gahininath Maharaj Ausekar , co-chairman of the temple committee, said the conservation was being carried out by ASI experts from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar with utmost care to preserve the idols’ ancient form, sanctity and religious traditions.




“Before commencing the work of idol conservation , the idols of Shri Vitthal and Rukmini Mata were photographed, video recorded and digitally documented using state-of-the-art technology. This digital documentation will be important for future preservation, conservation, research and scientific study. The work of idol conservation is planned to be completed by September 25. After that, the darshan of Shri Vitthal and Rukmini Mata will be resumed for the devotees from September 26,” said Ausekar.




Deputy Superintendent of ASI, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Dr S Vinod Kumar , Assistant Director of Archaeological Department, Pune, Dr Vilas Vahane , and other Devasthan officials are overseeing the work.




Meanwhile, a controversy erupted on Thursday after a temple trustee took his relatives inside the temple despite its closure to devotees. Social activists questioned the trustee, leading to a heated argument between them.