SC seeks response on Banke Bihari Temple darshan timings, "deity to rest"

• Supreme Court issued notice on a plea challenging changes in darshan timings and religious practices at Vrindavan's Banke Bihari Temple.
• The plea was filed by members of the Goswami community, who are traditional priests, citing disruption to rituals and the deity's rest.
• The SC questioned practices allowing special or paid rituals during closed hours, remarking that the deity is not allowed to rest after noon.
• Responses have been sought from the Uttar Pradesh government, district authorities, and the temple's management committee.
• Temple priests argue for sacred timings, crowd control, and against privileged darshan, with the matter listed for hearing in early January.

Why It Matters: SC examines how Banke Bihari Temple balances tradition, deity's rest, and crowd control.