NEW DELHI/SHILLONG: Only a week is left for Durga Puja and there seems to be no divine intervention in ending the deadlock at Nartiang temple in Jaintia Hills.
The impasse has assumed significance in the wake of the Centre planning a huge financial package for developing the over 600-year-old temple. The shrine is one of the holiest sites for Hindu devotees and is a major tourism attraction.
After the death of two priests, Molloi Deshmuk in 2017 and Uttam Deshmuk this year, the Dolloi decided to appoint a new priest from outside the clan.
Now, two groups are fighting over priests and whether the descendant of the traditional priest family be allowed to take over the mantle. But in reality, it is more about the huge funds which come in the form of generous donations.
A petition was filed in the Meghalaya High Court that ordered villagers and devotees to resolve the matter between the groups within a month failing which it would order a religious scholar to take the decision. The deadline ends on October 14 but by that time preparations for Durga Puja will be in the final stage. The puja starts from October 16.
Sources from the Central Puja Committee said they were trying to solve the matter as uncertainty over the upcoming Durga Puja at the temple premises looms large. “We will be able to tell you about the development only next week,” a functionary said.
The rites at the temple are not performed the conventional way but are a blend of Hindu and ancient Khasi traditions. The local chieftain or Syiem is considered the chief patron of the temple.
Even today, during Durga Puja, the Syiem sacrifices goats or ducks in the Goddess’s honour.
The Central Puja Committee is supposed to be the caretaker of the temple. It finances a major part of the daily expenses incurred by the temple and carries out development activities on the premises.
West Jaintia Hills DC Garod Dykes said on Saturday the district commissioner will ensure that Durga Puja is celebrated peacefully. “The temple is open and puja is also being performed,” he added.
