Vrindavan, 2016.11.19 (VT): Incensed by continued governmental indifference and negligence, the brajwasis decided to excavate the old ghats and restore them. They carried shovel and spade in their hands to begin the excavation of Vihar Ghat. The ‘shram daan’ which began on Ekadashi, revealed more than ten steps.
‘Tirtha Purohits’ (Pandas) joined hands to excavate the ancient ghats of Vrindavan. More than ten steps of Vihar Ghats were taken out in the excavation, which began on Ekadashi. Encouraged by the success, the brajwasis decided to move to the other ghats also, for excavation.
The series of pristine Yamuna ghats having architectural value are on the verge of extinction due to the neglect of the government. The civil society also remained indifferent. Most of the ghats have either been destroyed to build new buildings on them or were buried under the debris. The successive governments in the state or in the centre never took interest to preserve them.
Shri Sanjay Ballabh Gautam, the coordinator of the event, said “Vihar Ghat has a special significance in the pastime of Krishna. Gwalior King Himmat Rai Bahadur built this ghat more than 200 years ago. The governments didn’t take any step to preserve them. They were allowed to be buried under the debris to build Parikrama Marg illegally on it.”
Anoop Gautam said, “We shall continue the excavation until all the steps, stone canopies, and chhatris are visible. The ancient Vihar Ghat is not only the heritage for Vrindavan, but for the entire Vraja Culture.”
Acharya Naresh Narayan, representing the Braj-Vrindavan Heritage Alliance said, “All the 48 ghats should be taken out from the debris, and restored. Government should take steps to bring Yamuna back to its original ghats.”
Shri Rama Kant Goswami, the Secretary of the Braj Vikas Trust that renovated many ancient temples also participated in the ‘shram daan’. He assured that once the Vihar ghat is excavated, his organization will get it restored.
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