Banke Bihari Temple Management Committee Holds 16th Meeting in Vrindavan
Vrindavan, June 17, 2026: The 16th meeting of the High-Powered Management Committee of the world-renowned Thakur Shri Banke Bihari Ji Temple was held at the auditorium of Laxman Shaheed Smarak Bhawan in Vrindavan.
The meeting focused on issues related to devotee convenience, crowd management, safety measures, and the overall development of the temple area, which attracts lakhs of pilgrims from across India and abroad every year.
Meeting Chaired by Retired Justice Ashok Kumar
The meeting was chaired by Justice (Retd.) Ashok Kumar, former judge of the Allahabad High Court and Chairman of the Supreme Court-appointed High-Powered Management Committee. Senior district officials and committee members were also present during the proceedings.
Among those associated with the committee are the District Magistrate, Senior Superintendent of Police, Municipal Corporation officials, and representatives of the Mathura-Vrindavan Development Authority. The committee was constituted to oversee the day-to-day functioning and long-term development of the temple and surrounding areas.
Focus on Devotee Facilities and Crowd Management
During the meeting, members reviewed various issues concerning the management of large crowds visiting the temple, particularly during weekends, festivals, and peak pilgrimage seasons.
Discussions were also held on improving facilities for devotees, including movement management within the temple area, public amenities, and measures aimed at ensuring a smoother darshan experience.
The committee reviewed ongoing and proposed initiatives intended to strengthen safety arrangements and improve overall visitor convenience in and around the temple precincts.
Development of Temple Area Discussed
Officials also deliberated on infrastructure-related matters connected with the broader development of the Banke Bihari Temple area.
The committee has been entrusted with examining issues such as crowd regulation, public facilities, traffic management, sanitation, and other civic requirements linked to the growing number of visitors arriving in Vrindavan.
Various departments presented updates on works and proposals related to the temple zone and surrounding localities.
Background of the High-Powered Committee
The High-Powered Management Committee was constituted following directions issued by the Supreme Court to supervise the functioning of the temple and recommend measures for better management and development. The committee is headed by Justice (Retd.) Ashok Kumar and includes administrative, judicial, and technical representatives.
In recent proceedings, the Supreme Court also expanded representation within the committee by including elected representatives from the Goswami community to ensure that traditional religious practices remain adequately represented in administrative discussions.
MathuraNow View
As one of the most visited temples in India, Shri Banke Bihari Ji Temple continues to face the challenge of balancing traditional religious practices with modern crowd management requirements. Regular meetings of the High-Powered Management Committee are playing an important role in reviewing arrangements and coordinating between various departments responsible for pilgrim facilities and public safety.