Trimbakeshwar Devasthan is preparing extensively for Mahashivaratri, including various religious and cultural programs. Among them, a dance performance by Marathi actress Prajakta Mali and her co-stars, titled 'Shivarpanastu,' is scheduled to take place. However, this program has sparked controversy, leading to opposition from former trustee Lalita Shinde.
Former trustee Lalita Shinde has strongly opposed the event, stating that Mahashivaratri is a sacred occasion that should focus solely on religious programs. She has written directly to the temple authorities and appealed against organizing the performance, urging them to reconsider their decision. Shinde has also expressed her views in media interactions, emphasizing that traditional performances like classical and Kathak dance should be preferred over celebrity-driven events.
The Mahashivaratri festival at Trimbakeshwar, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, includes religious and cultural events. As per tradition, the Haldi ceremony will take place on February 25, and the temple will be beautifully decorated with flowers. A flute training class will be performed on February 25 from 7 PM to 9 PM. On February 26, the palanquin of Sri Tryambak Raja will leave the temple at 3 PM, following a planned route before returning. Alongside, a Shiv Tandav group will present a dance performance in front of the temple and at two main squares.
At 8 PM on Mahashivaratri, Prajakta Mali and her co-stars are scheduled to perform the 'Shivarpanmastu' dance on behalf of Natarang Academy. However, following opposition from Lalita Shinde, there is no official confirmation regarding the continuation of the program. Meanwhile, Prajakta Mali, who had earlier visited all twelve Jyotirlingas after the release of her film 'Phulvanti,' has not responded publicly to the controversy surrounding her performance at Trimbakeshwar.