Around 500 to 600 little businesses sprung up around the old temple, catering to the daily influx of devotees who came to the complex to purchase flowers and worship goods.
In the Heart of Bur Dubai
The Bur Dubai Shiv Mandir and Gurudwara, standing since 1958, symbolise more than just physical structures for residents like Divyesh Kumar Shaholia. For him, it's a repository of childhood memories, where daily rituals echo through the corridors of time.
Generations connected by tradition
Since the age of seven, Divyesh has woven a strong bond with this historic temple, where cultural traditions pass down through generations. But change is imminent, as notices signal the relocation of the Shiva temple to Jebel Ali, leaving the community in contemplation.
End of an Era: Reflections from Dubai Old-Timers
The Shaholias are among the long-time Dubai residents who, having arrived 48 years ago, nevertheless experience a profound pang of homesickness. The temple holds great significance for Divyesh's father and uncles, who are involved in the gold workshop business in Bur Dubai.
Rituals and Routine
Recalling daily life, Divyesh vividly remembers his routine: visiting the temple after school, making garlands with his grandmother, and distributing 'Prasad' at the family shop. Festivals, like Janmashtami, drew massive crowds, challenging both worshippers and the authorities.
Evolution Over the Years
As cars became more prevalent, parking issues arose, and the family adapted to the changing dynamics. Divyesh witnessed the evolving landscape, from buying incense sticks from a single shop to the emergence of several outlets selling a variety of prayer items.
Relocation Emotions: Grappling with Change
The impending move of the Shiva temple stirs emotions and conversations within the community. Residents, deeply connected to the temple, face the prospect of bidding farewell to a sanctuary that has been a constant in their lives.
The legacy lives on
While the physical temple may relocate, the memories, rituals, and cultural richness embedded in the Bur Dubai Shiv Mandir and Gurudwara will continue to echo, carrying forward the legacy for generations to come.
