Bhojshala's 1000-Year History: From Saraswati Temple to Disputed Site

• Bhojshala, built by Raja Bhoj around 1034 AD in Dhar, was a renowned center for education dedicated to Goddess Saraswati.
• The original idol of Vagdevi (Saraswati) from Bhojshala is currently housed in the British Museum, taken by Major Kincaid in 1875.
• Bhojshala suffered damage from Khilji's attacks and was later partially used as a mosque by Sultan Mahmud Khilji in the 15th century.
• Currently, both Hindu puja (Tuesdays) and Muslim namaz (Fridays) are permitted, with the site open for tourists on other days.
• A 2024 scientific survey by the Archaeological Survey of India aims to determine if temple remains exist beneath the current structure, with the report still pending.

Why It Matters: Bhojshala, a 1000-year-old site in Dhar, embodies a rich history of education, art, and religious coexistence.