Banke Bihari Temple Treasury Reopened After 54 Years on Dhanteras Amid Tight Security

Mathura (Uttar Pradesh), October 18, 2025: In a historic event coinciding with Dhanteras, the treasury of the famous Banke Bihari Temple in Mathura was opened on Saturday after 54 years. The reopening took place under strict court supervision and tight security arrangements.

Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Pankaj Kumar Verma confirmed that only authorised officials were permitted inside the temple during the process. “All necessary arrangements have been made, and only authorised personnel are allowed within the premises,” he said.

The decision follows a Supreme Court directive allowing access exclusively to members of a High-Powered Committee set up to oversee the proceedings. Mathura Circle Officer Sandeep Singh detailed that the entire operation was recorded on video and supported by multiple departments, including fire and forest teams equipped with modern firefighting gear.

“Since the treasury had been closed for over five decades, precautionary measures were taken to handle any unforeseen risks. Special backpack fire extinguishers that cut off oxygen supply to flames were also used,” Singh explained.

Temple caretaker Ghanshyam Goswami expressed reverence for the moment, saying, “Banke Bihari’s treasury has been opened after 54 years on this auspicious day of Dhanteras. Only the High-Powered Committee members, along with judicial and administrative officers, and four nominated Goswamis, were granted access.”

The last time the temple treasury was opened was in 1971 under the supervision of the then temple committee president.

Dhanteras marks the beginning of Diwali celebrations and is devoted to Lord Ganesha, Goddess Mahalakshmi, and Kuber—the deity of wealth. The day is also associated with Lord Dhanvantari, revered as the god of Ayurveda, symbolising health and prosperity. Falling on the thirteenth lunar day of Krishna Paksha in the month of Aaswayuja, Dhanteras is considered highly auspicious for new beginnings and purchases.