Mahant Surendranath, Head Priest, Kalkaji Temple
It’s not even noon and the heat is unbearable. It’s Navratra and devotees are flocking by the thousands to the Kalkaji Temple. Hundreds walk from nearby areas and bus-stops, others pour out of the metro station, while yet others make their way to the various exit gates after offering their prayers. It’s a picture Mahant Surendranath couldn’t have imagined 45 years ago.
At the Havan Kund, he is surrounded by devotees wanting to join him for the Ram Navami puja. “The Kalkaji Temple was a totally different picture 40-45 years ago. It was green. I have heard from my gurus and have childhood memories of a dense forest around the temple. Devotees would be afraid to walk to the temple. People coming from Chirag Delhi would look for company to come here.”
According to the Mahant, the biggest change that Delhi has seen in the last 10 years is the emergence of a new city with better infrastructure. “Better transport facilities and the metro has led to an increase in the number of devotees to the temple,” he adds.
As it’s election season in Delhi, there are several high profile devotees seeking blessings apart from the 3,50,000 to 5 lakh people from various walks of life who visit the temple during the Navratra. “I won’t drop names but many politicians have turned to the Kalkaji Temple to seek blessings to vanquish their adversaries. This year is no different. In ancient times, several rajas and maharajas would flock to the temple for prayers. The tradition continues.”
The postgraduate in English from Delhi University can’t remember where his journey into priesthood started. “I have been in the temple since my birth. I have been part of the prayers here since my childhood.”
Favourite Pilgrimages: I have been to almost all the Shakteepeeths. The Yogmaya Temple in Delhi is special. Like Kalkaji, it’s an ancient one
Idea of Perfect Food: I like simply cooked meals and everything that’s cooked at home
A Quality in You: I am a devotee of Ma and not publicity hungry
