Patna: A shortage of LPG cylinders has begun to affect temple kitchens in Patna, with the situation disrupting the preparation of prasad and community meals at the city’s prominent Mahavir Temple.
Temple authorities said the scarcity of cooking gas has forced them to scale back the Daridra Narayan Bhoj, a meal programme for the poor and destitute conducted at the temple premises.
According to the temple management, meals that were earlier served twice daily have now been reduced to once a day until alternative arrangements are put in place or the gas supply returns to normal.
Alternative arrangements for Ram Navami
With the festival of Ram Navami approaching, preparations are underway to ensure that the temple’s sacred food offerings continue without interruption.
Officials said Naivedyam prasad, traditionally prepared using LPG cylinders, may this year be cooked using induction cooktops to overcome the shortage.
R Seshadri, the official in charge of Naivedyam preparation at the temple, said the temple expects a large number of devotees during the festival.
“Last year, around 20,000 kilograms of Naivedyam was prepared. This year we have set a target of 22,000 kilograms in view of the anticipated increase in devotees,” he said.
Large crowds expected
Ram Navami is celebrated with considerable enthusiasm in the city each year, drawing thousands of devotees to Mahavir Temple.
Devotees typically begin lining up late at night to offer prayers, and temple authorities expect a similar turnout this year.
Officials said arrangements are being made to ensure that prasad preparation continues smoothly despite the gas shortage, with alternative cooking methods being explored until the supply situation stabilises.
