Mathura, Vrindavan temples adopt traditional rituals to shield deities from heat

IMD issues orange alert as heatwave grips Mathura. Temples use coolers, curtains, water showers to keep premises cool.

Mathura: Temples in Mathura and Vrindavan are using water showers, coolers and other such measures to contain the temperatures within their premises amid the scorching heat.

The Indian Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for Mathura, with heatwave conditions prevailing in several parts of the state.

Temples have already begun their summer rituals -- "phool bangla" decorations, vetiver (khas) curtains, applying sandalwood, perfumed water showers and floral attire for Lord Krishna and other deities to keep the premises cool.

"Devotees love him as 'lala' (child) or 'sakha' (friend). These rituals reflect their concern that Krishna should not suffer during the summer," Padma Shri award-winning artist Krishn Kanhai said.

At Bankey Bihari Temple, the deity's attire and ornaments are made from flower buds.

The deities are being offered mango, musk melon, cucumber, 'thandai' and mango lassi as 'prasad'.

Temple authorities said coolers, mist fans, water sprinkling and drinking water facilities have been arranged for devotees, though some visitors complained about inadequate shaded areas outside temples.

The IMD attributed the prevailing heatwave conditions to clear skies and hot, dry winds across Uttar Pradesh.