Rescue Operation Underway for Missing Individuals in Shimla’s Shiv Bawdi Temple Landslide
Statue of Shiv Temple Found Amid Rescue
Operation in Debris
Shimla, August 16: A rescue operation is currently in progress to recover missing individuals from the debris of the Shiv Bawdi Temple, which was destroyed due to a landslide and flash flood in the suburban area of Summerhill, the capital of Shimla. On the third day since the incident, the body of a woman and another body have been recovered. A total of 13 bodies have been retrieved so far.
Notably, during the rescue operation, a statue of Lord Shiva was found near the site of the temple’s destruction. The operation involves the participation of the NDRF (National Disaster Response Force), SDRF (State Disaster Response Force), local police, and citizens. On Wednesday, the locals recovered a statue from the debris.
This statue of Lord Shiva was situated near the Shiva Linga (a symbolic representation of Lord Shiva) wall. Additionally, there were sculptures of Hanuman, Lord Rama, Lakshman, and Sita. Also, a four to five-foot-tall statue of Goddess Durga was present in a separate prayer room. Devotees used to bow before these idols every day, and the temple priest performed morning and evening rituals.
Amid the rescue efforts, a police officer explained that the top priority is to save lives and recover the missing people. Retrieving the statue is not currently considered a priority, nor will it be seized as evidence.
The temple, around 150 years old, held significance as a center of faith for the people. During the month of Shravan (July-August), devotees would gather at the temple. The temple had been preparing for a havan (sacred fire ritual) and kheer (sweet dish) prasad (offering) this past Monday. However, the landslide had already demolished the temple before that.
The temple premises had five rooms for the residing priests. For several years, priests from the Garhwal region had managed the temple’s rituals and worship. The temple premises also hosted grand religious events and ceremonies. The temple gained the name “Shiv Bawdi” due to the presence of a stepwell nearby. In recent years, the temple committee had renovated and enhanced the temple’s grandeur.
Samagra Sikhsha
