The Central Puja Committee (CPC), Meghalaya, has submitted a formal appeal to the Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills District (EKHD) and Chairperson of the 10-member committee, urging the opening of the Krem Mawjymbuin Cave in Mawsynram for devotees during the holy month of Shravan (June-July 2025). The CPC also proposed declaring the cave as a religious tourist destination to attract international religious tourists.
In a virtual meeting held on December 29, 2024, chaired by CPC President Shri Naba Bhattacharjee and attended by General Secretary Shri J.L. Das and other core members, the CPC deliberated extensively on the matter. The meeting unanimously decided to submit suggestions for managing religious and tourism activities at the historic cave.
The CPC highlighted that in 2002, more than 200 ISKCON devotees from around the world visited the Krem Mawjymbuin Cave and performed puja. At the time, the CPC took charge of cleanliness and maintenance in and around the cave. They now propose several measures to regulate and promote religious tourism at the site.
Key Suggestions by CPC
Rules and Regulations: A strong framework to regulate religious activities throughout the year, particularly during the holy month of Shravan.
Volunteer Support: Deployment of 30-40 CPC volunteers to assist the Rangbah Shnong and the local Dorbar in managing devotees and visitors, with salaries for four individuals borne by the Tourism Department, Government of Meghalaya.
Infrastructure Development: A grant of ₹5 lakh from the government for infrastructure improvements, with additional funding to be arranged by stakeholders.
Visitor Management: During peak days (four Sundays in Shravan), a maximum of 500 devotees would be allowed to visit the cave, regulated and supervised by CPC volunteers.
Drafting Committee: Formation of a committee to finalize regulations and management plans for the cave.
The CPC expressed its commitment to maintaining cleanliness and order while ensuring that the sentiments of local communities and stakeholders are respected.
The appeal highlights the potential of the Krem Mawjymbuin Cave to emerge as a unique religious tourist destination, boosting both spiritual tourism and local development. The CPC has extended its willingness to work collaboratively with the government and local authorities to implement these suggestions effectively.
