Kasrawad (Madhya Pradesh): A retired irrigation department employee (Grade IV), Jagdish Chandra Rathore, has become a symbol of faith and devotion by renovating an ancient temple near Santoshi Mata Jhira in Nayanagar, using his pension and public support.
The temple premises of Shri Balkrishna Hanuman Mandir, which include Shiv Mandir and Shri Nag Devta Temple, were in a dilapidated condition, but under Rathore’s leadership, they have been restored.
Rathore started saving a portion of his salary from 2004 while he was working, and after retirement, continued spending part of his pension for the temple’s renovation. Inspired by his dedication, many devotees voluntarily contributed to the effort.
A four-day consecration festival (Pran Pratishtha Mahotsav) of Shri Balkrishna Hanuman temple near Santoshi Mata Jhira in Nayanagar will be held from July 25 to 28. The event will begin with a grand Kalash Yatra and idol procession from the temple to Jai Stambh and back.
The newly built temples will house consecrated idols of Lord Shiva’s family, Hanuman, Sheshnag and Bhairav Baba. The temple’s main gate stands 20 feet high and 15 feet wide.
On July 28, a Purnahuti ritual will conclude the event, followed by Kanya Bhoj and a community feast (Bhandara). The temple committee, led by Sanatan Dharma Seva Samiti’s Secretary Yashwant Singh Rathore, is also planning the restoration of the nearby Jhira Bawdi (stepwell) and has developed a garden for daily worship and spiritual learning for children.
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