A centuries-old Hanuman idol in Ujjain has become the centre of attention after repeated attempts to relocate it for a road-widening project failed. While the structure of the historic Khade Hanuman temple has been demolished, the standing idol has remained firmly in place despite the use of heavy machinery.
The temple is located along the Kanthal Chauraha-Chhatri Chowk stretch, where road-widening work is being carried out as part of preparations for Simhastha 2028. The administration had planned to shift the idol to a new location near Tanki Chowk so that the road project could proceed.
According to reports, officials and workers made several attempts over the past few days to move the idol using cranes, JCBs and other heavy equipment. However, the efforts were unsuccessful. After four failed attempts, authorities reportedly stopped using heavy machinery amid concerns that excessive force could damage the idol.
The idol has since been placed under a temporary canopy while officials consider the next step. A portion of the ground around its base has reportedly been excavated to understand how the structure is anchored. Experts are expected to examine the idol, its base and the surrounding soil using specialised scanning equipment before another relocation attempt is made.
The development has also sparked a wave of religious sentiment among local devotees. Some have described the idol's refusal to move as a "divine sign", while videos of devotees gathering at the site have circulated on social media. A group of monkeys gathering around the temple area further fuelled public interest in the incident.
The temple is believed to be around 170 years old, although some claims suggest that the idol itself could have much older historical links. Experts have called for scientific and archaeological examination to establish its age and understand the construction techniques used around it.
For now, the administration faces the challenge of balancing the requirements of the road-widening project with the religious and historical significance of the idol. Authorities are expected to take a decision on its relocation after receiving expert assessments, with the safety of the statue remaining the immediate priority.
