JAMMU, Jun 6: Dr. Ritu Singh on Saturday visited the historic Shri Gadhadhar Ji Temple adjoining the Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex to assess the damage caused by the recent collapse of a portion of the temple wall. She was accompanied by Ashok Sharma, Secretary of the J&K Dharmarth Trust, along with other officials of the Trust.
Expressing deep concern over the incident, Dr. Ritu Singh described the damage to the centuries-old shrine as a matter of serious concern for devotees, heritage enthusiasts, and the people of Jammu. The temple, constructed during the reign of Maharaja Gulab Singh, is regarded as an important symbol of the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
She expressed relief that no casualties were reported despite the presence of a large number of devotees at the temple shortly before the collapse. Calling it a divine blessing, she noted that a major tragedy had been averted.
During her inspection, the Kunwarani observed that the impact of the collapse had extended beyond the temple premises, affecting nearby residential areas as well. She voiced concern over reports of damage to public infrastructure, including water supply lines, and stressed that the safety of residents living in the vicinity should be accorded the highest priority.
“This issue is not confined to a heritage structure alone. Thousands of people reside around this historic precinct, and their safety and well-being must be safeguarded while undertaking restoration and developmental works,” she said.
Dr. Ritu Singh also highlighted the temple’s long-standing association with the women of the erstwhile Dogra Royal Family. She said generations of women from the royal household had worshipped at Shri Gadhadhar Ji Temple and played an important role in preserving its traditions and religious practices.
She noted that even today, a large number of women regularly visit the shrine to offer prayers and participate in religious observances. The damage caused to the temple, she said, has deeply hurt the sentiments of devotees, particularly women who share a strong spiritual connection with the sacred site.
As a member of the erstwhile Royal Family and a devotee herself, Dr. Ritu Singh expressed solidarity with all those distressed by the incident and urged the authorities to take immediate action.
She called upon the concerned departments to conduct a comprehensive structural assessment of the temple complex and surrounding areas through qualified experts to prevent any further damage. She also appealed for the restoration and reconstruction of the damaged portions of the temple in accordance with established heritage conservation norms, ensuring the preservation of its original architectural and spiritual character.
Reaffirming her commitment to the protection of Jammu’s rich heritage, Dr. Ritu Singh offered her full cooperation and support to the administration and all concerned agencies engaged in restoration efforts.
“Our heritage temples are living symbols of faith, history and identity. Shri Gadhadhar Ji Temple occupies a special place in the hearts of the people of Jammu. Immediate and effective steps must be taken to restore the damaged structure and ensure the safety of the surrounding community,” she said.