Pandharpur Vitthal-Rukmini idols get protective coating: Why is it being done and what's the Vajralepan process

Conservation work on the Vitthal and Rukmini idols at the Pandharpur temple began on September 22 under the supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The idols are undergoing scientific cleaning, digital documentation and protective coating as part of the preservation exercise. The temple is closed to devotees during the work and is scheduled to reopen on September 26.

Why are the Vitthal-Rukmini idols being given a protective coating?

The protective coating is part of the conservation process being carried out on the centuries-old idols. The exercise is aimed at preserving their existing form and helping protect them for future generations. Before the conservation work began, the idols were photographed, video-recorded and digitally documented using advanced technology. According to the temple committee, the documentation will also provide a record that can be used for future preservation, research and scientific study. The conservation work is being carried out by ASI experts from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.

What is the Vajralepan process?

Vajralepan is being carried out after the initial conservation steps. In 2025, ASI had reportedly recommended epoxy resin mixed with stone powder for restoring the eroded portion of the Vitthal idol. However, it is not clear from the current conservation update whether the same material has been used in the latest Vajralepan process.

When will devotees get darshan again?

The conservation work is planned to be completed by September 25. The temple is scheduled to reopen for devotees on September 26, when darshan of Shri Vitthal and Rukmini Mata will resume.

Gahininath Maharaj Ausekar, co-chairman of the temple committee, said the conservation was being undertaken by ASI experts while taking care of the idols' ancient form, sanctity and religious traditions.

“Before commencing the work of idol conservation, the idols of Shri Vitthal and Rukmini Mata were photographed, video recorded and digitally documented using state-of-the-art technology. This digital documentation will be important for future preservation, conservation, research and scientific study. The work of idol conservation is planned to be completed by September 25. After that, the darshan of Shri Vitthal and Rukmini Mata will be resumed for the devotees from September 26,” said Ausekar.

Controversy over entry during temple closure

The conservation work also led to a separate controversy on Thursday. A temple trustee reportedly took his relatives inside the temple even though it remained closed to devotees for the conservation exercise. Social activists questioned the trustee over the entry, following which a heated argument took place between them.