The decision by the Allahabad High Court in favor of the Banke Bihari Temple corridor and the subsequent approval by the Uttar Pradesh Government has sparked a heated debate. While the state aims to enhance visitor experience and infrastructure, some locals and temple management have raised objections. However, many of their claims appear to be rooted in emotion, misconception, or self-interest. Here are a few claims and resistances by locals and my criticism on them.

Claim 1 : Kunj Galis Are the Soul of Vrindavan

One of the main arguments against the corridor is the supposed historical sanctity of the Kunj Galis — the narrow alleys of Vrindavan. But historical facts tell a different story.

The Reality Behind Kunj Galis

When Shri Krishna performed his divine leelas (Hunan Plays) in Vrindavan, the town was not characterized by narrow streets and congested areas. Instead, it was a land filled with Tulsi forests, open natural spaces, and divine serenity. The congested architecture seen today is a result of modern constructions, not ancient tradition.

True Identity of Vrindavan

Vrindavan’s true identity lies not in cramped alleys, but in the divine chants of “Radhe Radhe” and “Hare Krishna”, and the spiritual aura that permeates every particle of the holy land. The corridor development aims to preserve and enhance this experience — not diminish it.

Claim 2: The Temple Is Our Private Property

Some temple management members claim that the Banke Bihari Temple is their private domain and that the corridor infringes on their authority. They also claim that they are the true devotees of Bihari ji which can’t be true. Because, a true devotee would not claim its authority on the temple or the God. He/she would instead support the making of a bigger and better dham for our cutest Bihari ji.

True Devotion vs. Power Struggles

Such resistance raises the question — is the opposition about devotion or preserving control and profit? A true devotee doesn’t fear the loss of authority but welcomes anything that offers the deity a grander abode and makes it easier for devotees to worship.

The temple doesn’t belong to any individual or group. It belongs to Banke Bihari Ji and His devotees. Enhancing the temple’s surroundings is an act of devotion, not destruction.

Claim 3: The Corridor Will Turn Vrindavan into a Picnic Spot

There’s a concern that the corridor will commercialize Vrindavan. But isn’t that already happening?

Commercialization Already Exists

Expensive accommodation, high-priced Prasad, and costly rides — these are already turning Vrindavan into a tourist spot, not the corridor. The development simply aims to offer better crowd management, hygiene, and infrastructure — which are much needed.

Claim 3 : We Want To Keep Vrindavan as the Old Vrindavan

The idea of preserving “old Vrindavan” sounds noble but is selectively applied.

Double Standards of Locals

Many locals ride bikes and cars through the Kunj Galis, adding to the congestion. If the true goal was preserving ancient Vrindavan, they would have opposed all modern amenities from entering the city — including their own.
You can’t demand a ban on development while enjoying all modern luxuries yourself. That’s hypocrisy, not heritage preservation.

Claim 3: We Will Lose Our Livelihood

Another major point of opposition is economic fear — the belief that development might affect local incomes.

The Chief Of The Government Is Not Brainless

The government and its systems are not irrational entities that would carelessly jeopardize the livelihood of the local population. Authorities have already assured fair and legal compensation for those affected, and the local community is well aware of these provisions. Therefore, the opposition on this ground appears less about genuine economic hardship and more about deeper, less-spoken concerns — which are discussed below.

It’s About Big Profits, Not Survival

Let’s be honest — most locals opposing the corridor are worried about losing inflated profits, not basic bread-and-butter. A mindset of scarcity is leading to panic. But those who genuinely love Shri Krishna and his devotees would be open to short-term sacrifice for long-term spiritual and civic betterment.

Why the Corridor Is a Step in the Right Direction

• Improved Infrastructure for millions of devotees
• Better crowd management and safety
• Enhanced spiritual ambiance for darshan
• Upliftment of temple tourism standards

CM Yogi Adityanath’s team is working towards creating a balance between tradition and transformation, ensuring heritage and spirituality are not lost in the process.

Conclusion: Choose Devotion Over Domination

The Banke Bihari corridor project is not an attack on heritage but a vision for a more accessible and organized Vrindavan. Let’s not confuse attachment to outdated systems with true devotion.

If you truly love Banke Bihari Ji, support what makes His abode more glorious — not what protects power, profits, or personal pride.