High Court Declares Bhojshala as a Temple, Ending Long-standing Dispute

The High Court of Madhya Pradesh has officially recognized Bhojshala as a temple, concluding a prolonged dispute between Hindu and Muslim communities. This ruling allows Hindus to worship freely at the site, which has been a point of contention for years. The court's decision follows an extensive survey by the Archaeological Survey of India, which provided substantial evidence supporting the temple's identity. The ruling also addresses the historical significance of Bhojshala, dating back to the 11th century, and outlines the responsibilities of the ASI in maintaining the site. This landmark decision has significant implications for the religious landscape in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 16, 2026, 15:31 IST

Bhojshala Dispute Resolved

The ongoing conflict regarding Bhojshala in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, has reached a significant conclusion. The High Court has ruled that Bhojshala is a temple, rejecting claims that it is a mosque. Since 2003, there had been permission for prayers to be held here, but the court's recent decision now allows Hindus to conduct worship freely, recognizing it as a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. The Hindu community has long advocated for this recognition.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) conducted an extensive survey over 98 days, leading to this ruling. The court also annulled a 2003 ASI order that permitted Hindus to worship on Tuesdays and Muslims on Fridays, effectively halting Friday prayers. The ASI will continue to oversee the site's maintenance and preservation. Furthermore, the court stated that if the Muslim community seeks land for a mosque in Dhar district, the state government should consider their request.

Key Aspects of the Ruling

1. Religious Character Established: The court determined the site's religious identity as a Saraswati temple based on ASI surveys, architectural analysis, inscriptions, and historical documents.

2. Importance of ASI Report: The ASI report detailed 94 idols, 150 Sanskrit-Prakrit inscriptions, and temple-style pillars. The Muslim side criticized the report as biased, while the ASI maintained that the survey was conducted scientifically with expert involvement, including Muslim representatives.

3. Places of Worship Act: The Muslim community referenced the 1991 Places of Worship Act, but the court clarified that protected monuments are exempt from this law. Bhojshala has been a protected monument since 1904.

4. Jain Claims Dismissed: The Jain community had claimed the site as a Jain temple and gurukul, but the court found insufficient evidence to support this assertion.

Arguments from the Hindu Community

During the hearings, the Hindu side presented numerous historical evidences asserting Bhojshala's identity as a temple. They claimed that rituals have been performed here for many years, including during the festival of Vasant Panchami.

Concerns Raised by the Muslim Community

The Muslim community contested the ASI survey report in court, labeling it as biased and suggesting it was designed to bolster Hindu claims. The ASI defended the integrity of the survey, asserting it was conducted using scientific methods.

Historical Context of Bhojshala

The history of Bhojshala dates back to the 11th century, believed to be a temple and center of learning dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. It is claimed that the temple was destroyed in the 12th-13th centuries, replaced by a mausoleum and mosque. Since March 18, 1904, it has been recognized as a protected monument under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958. The site has been a point of contention regarding its religious identity, with Hindus asserting it as a temple and the Muslim community identifying it as the Kamal Maula mosque. Historical records indicate that King Bhoj ruled from 1000 to 1055 CE and was a devout follower of Goddess Saraswati, establishing a college in 1034 CE that later became known as Bhojshala. Some historians note that the site was partially destroyed by Alauddin Khilji in 1305 CE, with subsequent mosque constructions occurring in 1401 CE and 1514 CE. The ASI's survey revealed 31 coins from various historical periods and numerous carvings of deities and animals on pillars and walls.