KOLHAPUR: The work of applying a protective layering, vajralep, on the eroded feet of Rukhmini’s idol at the famous Vitthal-Rukhmini temple in Pandhapur has been completed.
Experts from Archeological Survey of India’s (ASI) Aurangabad circle spent two days to finish the work. The erosion was confirmed in May during a visit of ASI officials. Following this, they had suggested the application of a protective layer using hydrophobic materials such as silicon.
The annual Ashadi ekadashi pilgrimage will be held on July 10. On this day, devotees will walk (Wari) to the temple town from across Maharashtra and Karnataka. As per the practice, the devotees touch the feet of Vitthal and Rukhmini’s idols with their forehead. ASI’s deputy superintendent Shrikant Mishra said experts have suggested not to let the devotees touch the feet of the idols as it is a major reason for erosion. The idol of Rukhmini is new when compared to Vitthal’s and the stone used for both the idols are different.
