In a move to balance religious practices with environmental preservation, the Meghalaya government has announced the opening of the Mawjymbuin Cave Shivling in Mawsynram for daily worship. The cave will be accessible to devotees from 9 AM to 5 PM throughout the year, following a meeting with local authorities and religious representatives. Satya Ranjan Borah, President of Kutumba Surakshya Parishad (KSP), expressed gratitude to the government, thanking them for making the Shivling available to devotees. “We acknowledge the efforts of the Meghalaya government and extend our sincere thanks to them for making the shivling available for devotees,” he said in a press release.
The opening comes with strict environmental guidelines aimed at preserving the cave’s natural formation. Prohibited activities inside the cave include the use of dias, dhup, and other items that could damage its ecosystem. Visitors are also expected to adhere to guidelines such as maintaining cleanliness and refraining from smoking, alcohol consumption, and playing loud music near the cave. Borah emphasized the importance of working together to protect nature, stating, “This time is very tough for the earth. We have to work together to save and protect it.” He also highlighted the significance of the Mawjymbuin Cave Shivling as a symbol of religious harmony and inclusiveness.
Local authorities, in collaboration with stakeholders, have also focused on sustainable management practices. The KSP has submitted recommendations to Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma for equitable distribution of offerings among local communities.