The Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, renowned for its unique and spiritually uplifting Bhasma Aarti, attracts thousands of devotees every day. Among these, a large number of spots are reserved for VIPs, making it essential to understand how the VIP darshan process works and how the slots are distributed.
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How Tickets Are Distributed for Bhasma Aarti
The Bhasma Aarti ritual allows approximately 1,800 devotees to participate daily. Here’s how the slots are distributed:
Accorting to a report in hindustan times, The administration of the Jyotirlinga Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain prioritizes senior government officials over regular devotees for quicker and closer access to rituals like the Bhasma Aarti. A special quota system has been established for various government departments, including police, judiciary, and income tax, with reserved seats in key temple areas like the Nandi and Ganpati halls. While 256 seats are available in the Nandi hall and 2,000 in the Ganpati hall, only 70 and around 1,000 seats, respectively, are allocated to general devotees.
1. Protocol Slots (VIP)
- The largest share, 1,100 slots (over 60%), is reserved for VIPs attending under government protocol.
- These slots are exclusively for dignitaries, government officials, and other special invitees, approved by the temple administration.
2. Public Slots
- Only 400 slots are made available through the online booking system.
- Another 300 slots are reserved for devotees who book their tickets offline at the temple counters.
The priority given to VIPs means fewer slots are available for regular devotees, making these premium protocol slots highly coveted.
How to Book VIP Darshan Tickets
For those seeking VIP darshan, the process is unique and requires formal steps. Here’s a simple breakdown:
1. Requesting a Protocol Slot
- Who Can Apply: VIP slots are primarily for individuals attending under official protocol, such as government officials and dignitaries.
- Steps to Apply:
- Reach out to the Mahakaleshwar Temple Management Committee in advance using their official contact details Phone Number (0734-2550563).
- Submit a formal request, which may include relevant documentation or letters of recommendation from authorities.
- Await confirmation from the temple administration, as slots are subject to availability and approval.
2. VIP Darshan Ticket Pricing
The VIP Darshan booking ticket price at Mahakaleshwar Temple varies based on the specific darshan or ritual. For regular VIP darshan, the cost is typically ₹250 per person, but for special rituals which most of the Vips like to offer to mahakaal and participate in rituals like the Bhasma Aarti, prices may differ depending on pooja being done.
When you contact the officials at Mahakaleshwar Temple administration you will be provided the details . Infact lot of donations are also given by celebrities and Vips visiting the temple so its understood rules can be quite flexible for them.
Premium Darshan for Devotees
If protocol-based VIP slots are not an option, the temple also offers premium darshan tickets for devotees who prefer a faster and more comfortable experience.
- Availability: These tickets are separate from protocol slots and provide expedited access to the temple.
- How to Book: Check these two posts Bhasmaarti booking info and Rules
The VIP darshan process ensures a structured experience for dignitaries and special guests while also accommodating other devotees through premium and regular options. Understanding this system can help devotees plan their visit to witness the divine Bhasma Aarti seamlessly and without confusion.
New Development for general Devotees
According to patrika news In a major step toward ensuring better access for all, the Mahakaleshwar Temple administration has introduced a VIP-like darshan facility for common devotees during the revered Bhasma Aarti. This change aims to reduce the struggles faced by ordinary pilgrims who previously had to queue up from 10 PM to secure a spot for the 4 AM ritual.
Now, general devotees can enter the temple at 2 AM through the Manasarovar Facility Center, where they will undergo a security check before being granted direct access to the temple. This system mirrors the protocol arrangements available to VIPs and ensures a more comfortable experience for women, children, and the elderly.
The new arrangement is expected to be implemented before Diwali, with information boards and updates on permission passes and SMS notifications to inform devotees of the revised timings. Additionally, the temple administration has stationed staff to provide water and restroom facilities during the night, making the experience more convenient for all visitors.
Temple administrator Ganesh Kumar Dhakad emphasized the inclusivity of this new system, stating, “Every devotee in Mahakal’s court is a VIP.” This initiative marks a significant shift, providing ordinary devotees the same respect and convenience previously reserved for VIPs.