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On the occasion of Vasant Panchami, the Hindu community commenced their rituals at the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Mosque complex in Dhar early Friday morning, following sunrise.

Given that both the Hindu festival and Friday prayers coincided, a significant deployment of police and paramilitary forces was arranged in the city to prevent any untoward incidents.

Devotees began gathering at this historically significant site, which dates back to the 11th century, right after dawn.

Members of the local Bhoj Utsav Committee initiated the worship by installing an image of Vagdevi (Saraswati) amidst the chanting of Vedic mantras. They also commenced a continuous ritual known as Akhand Puja by offering oblations into the sacred fire.

The worship area was adorned with floral garlands and saffron flags.

This year, due to Vasant Panchami falling on a Friday, both communities laid claim to the site for their respective rituals and prayers. In response to the situation, the Supreme Court intervened on Thursday, establishing a clear time-sharing arrangement.

The apex court permitted Hindus to conduct their worship from sunrise to sunset on Vasant Panchami, while allowing Muslims to perform their prayers from 1 PM to 2 PM.

The Bhojshala is regarded as a temple by the Hindu community, whereas the Muslim side identifies this 11th-century monument as the Kamal Maula Mosque. This site is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Following the onset of the dispute over Bhojshala, the ASI issued an order on April 7, 2003, which stipulated that Hindus are allowed to worship at Bhojshala every Tuesday, while Muslims are permitted to pray there every Friday.