Srinagar, Dec 27 : The ancient Shiv temple at the ski resort of Gulmarg has been restored after it was gutted in a devastating fire early this year, officials said.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Gulmarg Development Authority Tariq Hussain said that the reconstruction work was completed in the ancient temple and the initial rituals were held on December 25.

The historic temple situated in the middle of the world-famous ski resort of Gulmarg in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district was gutted in a devastating fire on June 5 this year causing extensive damage to the religious place at the meadow of the valley.

Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Dharmarth Trust in a statement said that it has conducted a “soft inauguration” of the newly reconstructed ancient Shiv Temple, commonly known as Maharani Temple in Gulmarg.

“This iconic temple, which suffered extensive damage due to a devastating fire has been rebuilt and reopened for the public, showcasing Trust’s commitment to preserving the spiritual and cultural heritage of J&K”, the statement reads.

The Trustee informed that the Temple is scheduled to reopen with complete traditional rituals and formal ceremonies in April 2025.

Vikramaditya Singh, Dharmarth Trust Trustee expressed gratitude to the local administration and the community for support in reconstruction efforts.

Pertinent to mention that the temple also known as the Rani temple or Mohineshwar Shivalaya, is popular as the spot where the famous Bollywood song “Jai Jai Shiv Shankar” of the Bollywood film “Aap Ki Kasam” starring Rajesh Khanna and Mumtaz was shot in 1974.

It is believed that the Maharani Temple was built by Mohini Bai Sisodia, wife of Maharaja Hari Singh in 1915. This temple belongs to the Dogra Kings of Jammu & Kashmir.

UNI