Prajakta Mali's Shivarpanamastu Event at Trimbakeshwar Temple Faces Opposition

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The upcoming event at Trimbakeshwar temple in Nashik, featuring actress Prajakta Mali, has run into trouble after the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) raised objections to the cultural program. The ASI has stated that organizing such an event on the occasion of Mahashivratri is against the AMSAR Act, and has ordered the temple trust to obtain prior permission from the ASI headquarters in Delhi. The event, titled Shivarpanamastu, is scheduled to take place on the evening of Mahashivratri, and will feature Prajakta Mali performing a classical dance routine.

The ASI's objections come after former trustee Lalita Shinde wrote to the police expressing her opposition to the event, citing concerns that it could disrupt the religious atmosphere at the temple. The ASI has also pointed out that the temple trust has been charging an entry fee of Rs 200 for VIP darshan, which is a violation of the AMSAR Act. The ASI has directed the temple trust to take corrective measures and has also informed the ASI officials in Delhi and Mumbai to take immediate action in the matter.

Prajakta Mali has responded to the controversy surrounding her event, stating that she was invited by the temple trust to perform at the event, and that she had accepted the invitation as a devotional offering to Lord Shiva. She has also clarified that the event will feature a classical dance performance, and that she will be performing two routines, while her fellow artists will perform the remaining routines.

The event has sparked a debate about the role of celebrities in religious events, with some arguing that it is inappropriate for celebrities to perform at such events. However, Prajakta Mali has stated that she is not performing as a celebrity, but as a devotee, and that she wants to offer her dance as a form of worship to Lord Shiva. The temple trust has also defended the event, stating that it is a part of their annual celebrations on Mahashivratri, and that Prajakta Mali's performance will be a part of the cultural program.

The controversy surrounding the event has highlighted the need for clarity on the rules and regulations governing cultural events at religious sites. The ASI's objections have raised questions about the role of the ASI in regulating such events, and the need for temple trusts to obtain prior permission from the ASI before organizing cultural programs. The outcome of the controversy remains to be seen, but it has sparked a important debate about the intersection of religion and culture in India.