Why Heavy Machines Have Failed to Move Ujjain's Khade Hanuman Idol in Madhya Pradesh?
Efforts by municipal authorities in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, to relocate a historic statue from the Khade Hanuman Temple have stalled after heavy machinery failed to move the idol over three days of operations.
A road-widening project in Madhya Pradesh's Ujjain has run into an unexpected challenge after repeated attempts using heavy machinery failed to move the revered Khade Hanuman idol from its long-standing location. While devotees see the development as a matter of faith and divine will, experts say the answer may lie in the idol's ancient construction, its foundation and the need for detailed scientific examination before any further relocation attempt, according to a report.
The idol, located in the historic Sati Gate area, has remained in place despite several attempts over recent days involving cranes and other heavy equipment. The temple structure around it has been demolished for road widening, but the approximately eight-foot standing idol remains untouched at its original location. Sultanpur: Lord Hanuman Idol Found During Toilet Pit Excavation on Hanuman Jayanti in UP, Video Surfaces.
Heavy Machinery Fails to Relocate Historic Hanuman Idol in Ujjain
Why Is the Hanuman Idol Not Moving?
There is no officially confirmed scientific explanation yet for why the heavy machines have been unable to shift the idol. However, experts have pointed to the possibility that the idol's base may be deeply embedded in the ground or connected to a larger underground foundation. Authorities are now focusing on examining the base, internal structure and surrounding soil before deciding on another method of relocation.
Heavy machinery was reportedly used during multiple attempts, but experts warned that applying excessive force could damage the ancient structure, cause cracks or even break the idol. As a result, authorities have halted further aggressive attempts and are considering a more scientific approach. Prayagraj: Ganga Water Enters Bade Hanuman Temple as Ganga-Yamuna Levels Rise (Video).
Experts Point to Historical Construction
According to Vikram University archaeology expert Prof. Dr Raman Solanki, the idol is made from Malwa basalt stone and could be linked to the idol-making traditions of the Parmar period and Raja Bhoj's era. The expert has said the idol and the site require scientific examination to establish their exact age and historical significance. While the temple is commonly described as around 170 years old, some experts believe the idol itself could be much older.
This distinction has become important in deciding how the structure should be handled and whether archaeological considerations need to be taken into account before it is moved.
Scanning Planned Before Next Decision
The latest reports indicate that experts may use advanced scanning techniques to study the idol's foundation, internal structure and the ground around it. The findings are expected to help authorities understand why conventional machinery has not been able to shift the idol and determine whether it can be safely relocated without causing damage.
Experts have said institutions such as the Archaeological Survey of India and the Madhya Pradesh archaeology department have experience in relocating old structures using specialised scientific methods.
Road Widening for Simhastha 2028
The relocation attempt is linked to a road-widening project in Ujjain ahead of Simhastha 2028. Authorities are widening the route between Kanthal Chauraha and Chhatri Chowk to improve infrastructure and facilitate movement during major religious events, including the Mahakal procession and the expected influx of pilgrims during Simhastha.
The temple building has already been removed, while the idol has been protected with a canopy or waterproof tent as authorities decide on the next course of action.
Devotees See It as a Matter of Faith
The failure to move the idol has drawn growing numbers of devotees to the site. Many worshippers believe the idol remaining firmly in place reflects Hanuman Ji's divine will and have expressed opposition to moving it. Religious groups and local residents have also held prayers and recited the Hanuman Chalisa near the site.
For devotees, the development has become a powerful moment of faith. However, from an administrative and archaeological perspective, experts say the situation requires careful scientific examination rather than further forceful attempts.
What Happens Next?
For now, the Khade Hanuman idol remains at its original location in Ujjain. The key question of why heavy machines could not move it has not yet received a definitive answer. The upcoming examination and scanning of the idol's base and surrounding area may provide important clues about its foundation and historical construction.
Until then, authorities are expected to prioritise the idol's safety and avoid using excessive force. As the technical investigation continues, the incident remains a point where faith, heritage preservation and urban development have come together in one of India's oldest religious cities.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 09, 2026 10:17 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).