The Ujjain Khade Hanuman Idol Relocation has become a major religious and civic issue in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. The Ujjain Municipal Corporation (UMC) started the relocation process as part of the Sati Gate-Chhatri Chowk road widening project. The operation has faced protests, heavy police deployment, rain and technical problems.The Khade Hanuman Temple is believed to be around 170 years old and is located in the busy old-city area of Ujjain. The road widening work is being carried out to improve traffic movement and prepare the city for the expected increase in visitors during the 2028 Simhastha Kumbh.What Is the Road Widening Project?The Ujjain road widening project covers the important route between Sati Gate and Chhatri Chowk, including areas around the Gopal Mandir route. The administration wants to make the road wider and improve traffic flow in the crowded part of the city.Some structures and religious sites located within the planned road corridor have to be shifted to other locations.The Khade Hanuman Temple Ujjain and nearby Taksali Ganesh Temple are among the religious structures affected by the project.Where Will the Khade Hanuman Idol Be Taken?According to the UMC plan, the Khade Hanuman idol will be shifted to a new temple site near Tanki Chowk, close to the existing water tank area.Construction work has already started at the proposed location. However, reports said the new temple was not fully ready, with some construction work still remaining.Local residents have also requested that Tanki Chowk be renamed Hanuman Chauraha after the idol is installed there.Why Did Protests Start?The Khade Hanuman idol relocation has faced opposition from local residents and Hindu organisations. Earlier attempts to begin the relocation were stopped following protests.Members associated with groups including the VHP and Bajrang Dal reportedly protested and blocked roads. Police were deployed in large numbers during the relocation operation.The administration continued the work despite rain and public opposition.Related Instagram Post :Ujjain Khade Hanuman Idol Relocation Sparks ProtestsWhy Has the Idol Not Been Easily Moved?The biggest challenge is the ancient idol itself. Heavy machinery and cranes were reportedly unable to move the statue because its lower portion is deeply connected with the ground and underlying stone layers.Officials and experts are concerned that using excessive force could damage the historic idol.As of the latest update, the administration has planned technical scanning and assessment before taking further steps. Therefore, it would be inaccurate to say that the idol has already been successfully shifted to Tanki Chowk.What Is the Current Status?The temple structure has been affected by the road-widening work, but the Khade Hanuman idol remains at its original location pending further technical assessment.The Taksali Ganesh Temple is also within the road-widening zone. Its relocation has faced similar concerns, although the temple's priest family has indicated that it would cooperate if the official documents and relocation process are legally valid.The situation remains sensitive as authorities balance the Ujjain road widening project, traffic requirements and the religious sentiments of local residents. The final decision on safely moving the Khade Hanuman idol is expected after technical and expert assessment.
