Temple Alliance calls for UNESCO World Heritage Tag for Vrindavan

• This was the second meeting of the Braj Temple Alliance
• Alliance demands its inclusion in the development plans for Braj – Vrindavan

2024.10.20 (Vrindavan Today News): A meeting of Braj Temple Alliance, officially known as ‘Braj Vrindavan Devalaya Samiti’ (BVDS) was held at the sacred Thakur Shri Radha Damodar Temple, where leading priests from various temples and religious institutions across Braj Vrindavan gathered. During the meeting, a unanimous resolution was passed, urging the inclusion of the Devalaya Samiti in the development plans for Braj Vrindavan. The committee’s officials will now present this proposal to various Uttar Pradesh government officials and political leaders.

A motion put forth by Lalita Peethadheeshwar Goswami Shri Krishnanand Bhatt Ji of Barsana’s Uncha Gaon was endorsed by all present. The motion called for the formation of a high-level committee that would include representatives from the three states covering the Braj region. This committee would operate under the supervision of the central government and the Supreme Court, ensuring the preservation of Braj’s ancient culture, heritage, and landscape. The aim is to safeguard the sacred hills, traditions, and heritage sites that are integral to Braj’s spiritual legacy.

“The lush pastures, mangroves, water bodies and forests of Vrindavan, which have long been integral to its spiritual ambience and revered shrines, are steadily disappearing in the wake of rapid urbanization. The concrete jungle that is encroaching upon this sacred land threatens to erode the very essence of Braj – Vrindavan – a place steeped in the myth, legend and devotion,” said Shri Alok Goswami the president of the Alliance.

In addition, the committee has pledged to work toward securing UNESCO World Heritage status for Vrindavan, further protecting its unique religious and cultural identity.

Talking to the media, the Secretary of the Temple Alliance Smt. Anagha Srinivasan said, “By securing UNESCO recognition for Vrindavan, we demonstrate our commitment to honoring the cultural and spiritual heritage of the city and ensuring that the future generations can continue to experience its profound connection to the teachings and life of Shri Krishna. In addition, UNESCO designation would attract international attention and support for conservation efforts, fostering collaboration and partnerships to preserve Vrindavan’s unique legacy.”

Representatives from the prominent temples of Braj attended the crucial meeting. The sevaits form Shri Radharamana, Shri Radha Damodar, Shri Madan Mohan, Shri Banke Bihari, Shri Vanshivat Bihari, Shri Laadli ji (Barsana), Shri Keshav Dev, Shri Meera Bai, Shri Bade Dauji, Shri Gopinath ji (Khadirvan), Shri Vimal Bihari (Kamyavan), Shri Shadbhuj Mahaprabhu, Pisawa Bihari Temples were present in the meeting.

This initiative marks a significant step in ensuring that the cultural and spiritual essence of Braj Vrindavan is preserved for future generations, with an emphasis on governmental cooperation and international recognition.