The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Madhya Pradesh): K.K. Muhammed, a renowned archaeologist, recently shed light on the long-standing controversy surrounding the Bhojshala/Kamal Maula Mosque complex in Madhya Pradesh’s Dhar district. He stated that the site, embroiled in a dispute between Hindu and Muslim communities, originally housed a Saraswati temple before being transformed into a mosque.
Muhammed, whose career includes significant contributions to Indian archaeology and has been recognized with the Padma Shri award, advocated for adherence to the 1991 Places of Worship Act, which freezes the religious status of places of worship as they stood in 1947. He encouraged both communities to respect the forthcoming decision by the Madhya Pradesh High Court regarding the complex’s status and to work together to resolve their differences peacefully.
This statement comes amid the Archaeological Survey of India’s (ASI) survey of the disputed site, following the court’s order for a “scientific survey” to ascertain its historical origins. The Bhojshala complex, known to Hindus as a temple of Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati) and to Muslims as the Kamal Maula Mosque, represents a focal point of religious and historical significance.
Muhammed also addressed the broader context of religious and cultural sensitivities, suggesting that Muslims should acknowledge the importance of places like Mathura and Kashi to Hindus, comparable to the significance of Mecca and Madinah for Muslims. He proposed that finding a compromise, where mosques in such disputed sites could potentially be relocated, might pave the way for reconciliation and mutual respect.
The ASI’s current practice, based on a 2003 order, allows Hindus to worship at the Bhojshala complex every Tuesday, while Muslims are permitted to offer namaz on Fridays. This arrangement underscores the site’s shared religious heritage but also highlights the challenges in managing its dual identity.
As the survey progresses and discussions continue, Muhammed’s call for dialogue and understanding between the communities serves as a reminder of the need for empathy, respect, and a collective effort towards preserving India’s rich cultural mosaic while fostering national unity.