Shimla, 05 October (HS). The historical Shiva temple located in Middle Bazaar of the capital Shimla has got a new name. Sri Sri Shiv Pratap Giri has been made the new Mahant of the temple. This temple is known by the name of Shri Shimleshwar Maharaj.
The newly appointed Mahant Shri Shri Shiv Pratap Giri said in a press conference on Saturday that he comes under the Gausai Math and only the eldest son of the family takes over the throne of Mahant. He said that he has got a big responsibility and he will discharge it with all his heart, mind and wealth and will work for the upliftment and excellence of the temple with full devotion.
While narrating the history of the temple, Shiv Pratap Giri said that in the year 1785, when Baba Buddha Giri Maharaj Ji was performing penance at this place, the self-proclaimed Shivalinga appeared and he took 'Jinva Samadhi' to establish and establish it, which is still standing at the back of the temple. It is established in the part which is worshiped by the people. From the same day Shimleshwar Maharaj Ji was established and worship started. After that, Baba Mahant Ambadatt Giri Ji Maharaj gave the temple a better shape in the year 1849. Baba Buddha Giri Maharaj was a proven man and it was through him that Baba Ambadatt Giri ji was given the responsibility of Mahant and the Guru Shishya tradition was carried forward.
Mahant Shiv Pratap Giri said that earlier the temple was very secret and belonged to a private family, but on the request of the nearby people, Mahant Ambadatt Giri opened it for the general public. The history of Mahants is very mythological and Mahants are the best religious preachers who devote their entire life in devotion to God to protect the religion.
Media in-charge of Shri Shimleshwar Maharaj Temple, Gaurav Sharma said that from now on all the activities of Shimleshwar Maharaj Ji will be under the control of Shri Shri Mahant Shvipratap Giri and he has made the outline for the maintenance of the temple, the work of Pandits and all the events. Now only the newly appointed Mahant will take full protection and operation of the temple.