📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Bollywood Hungama
Business
Harsh Goenka Criticises VIP Darshan at Lalbaugcha Raja Temple
✍️ Business Today
🗓 27 Sep 2026, 03:38 PM
👁 9
Business magnate Harsh Goenka has publicly questioned the practice of VIP darshan at Mumbai’s Lalbaugcha Raja temple, citing it as a symbol of social inequality. He urged temple authorities to adopt more inclusive measures for all devotees.
Harsh Goenka, a prominent Indian businessman, has taken a stand against the practice of VIP darshan at the Lalbaugcha Raja temple in Mumbai. The temple, known for its annual festival that draws millions of devotees, offers a special viewing for high‑profile visitors.
In a recent interview with Business Today, Goenka expressed concerns that the VIP darshan creates a visible divide between ordinary worshippers and those with influence or wealth. He highlighted how such privileges can reinforce social disparities within a religious setting.
Goenka called on the temple authorities to review the current arrangement and consider more inclusive options that would allow all devotees to experience the same reverence. He emphasized that religious spaces should reflect equality and accessibility.
The comments have sparked discussion among devotees and temple officials alike, with many questioning how best to balance tradition, patronage, and fairness in the context of one of Mumbai’s most celebrated shrines.
In a recent interview with Business Today, Goenka expressed concerns that the VIP darshan creates a visible divide between ordinary worshippers and those with influence or wealth. He highlighted how such privileges can reinforce social disparities within a religious setting.
Goenka called on the temple authorities to review the current arrangement and consider more inclusive options that would allow all devotees to experience the same reverence. He emphasized that religious spaces should reflect equality and accessibility.
The comments have sparked discussion among devotees and temple officials alike, with many questioning how best to balance tradition, patronage, and fairness in the context of one of Mumbai’s most celebrated shrines.