Dakor: Devotees visiting the famous Ranchhodrayji Temple will now have to pay significantly higher charges for various religious rituals and offerings following a steep price revision announced by the temple committee. The revised rates, which will come into effect from May 11, 2026, have triggered widespread debate and dissatisfaction among devotees.

Under the new tariff structure, the cost of several popular manoraths and rituals has increased sharply.

The charge for hoisting a standard temple flag (Dhaja) on the temple spire has been increased from ₹610 to ₹2,500, while the fee for the 52-yard flag (52 Gaj ni Dhaja) has risen from ₹2,500 to ₹11,000.

Similarly, the Rajbhog offering charge has been revised from ₹3,900 to ₹9,345. The Kunj Manorath fee has increased from ₹5,100 to ₹11,000, while the Tulsi Vivah ceremony will now cost ₹51,000 instead of the earlier ₹25,000.

The temple administration has not yet issued an official explanation for the steep increase in charges. However, many devotees have urged the committee to reconsider the revised rates to ensure that the temple’s traditions remain accessible to all sections of society.

Meanwhile, questions are also being raised over the legality of the decision. According to the temple board’s governing scheme, a five-member committee is required to administer the temple, and major decisions generally require the approval of at least three members.

At present, only two members are reportedly active on the committee. Sources said the decision could face legal challenges from temple servants (sevaks) or other stakeholders on the grounds that it was taken without the required majority approval. DeshGujarat