Thieves attempt to break into Jain temple in Gudibande

In a unique attempt at theft, thugs broke into the ancient Jain temple of Chandranathaswamy on Wednesday evening, but neglected to take anything of value.

 Instead, they replaced the lock of the temple with one of their own and left. 

When news of the break-in became clear, a team led by Sub-Inspector Krishnappa tightened security around the temple and also set up camp nearby. 

Tahsildar Mahesh Babu, who was informed of the incident, rushed to the temple on Thursday morning along with officials from Revenue and Police department.
 Duplicate lock

After the duplicate lock was cut away, the team found a gunny bag inside the temple, containing a five-metal alloy with inscriptions, two idols and other valuables. Broken glass from where idols were allegedly stolen was also discovered.

Babu is currently involved in collecting information about possible suspects from devotees and residents living nearby. He also instructed Krishnappa to use a dog squad and forensic experts to help crack the case. He added that the would-be thieves will be nabbed at the earliest.

Past its prime

The Jain temple, known as Basadi in Kannada, was built in early 16th century and contains antique idols and inscriptions. The temple, a popular pilgrim centre in the State, also contains idols of Chandranatha, Padmawathi, Jwalamalini, Saraswathi, Koshmandini and other goddesses.

It is believed that a Jain sage, Nigranta Ratna underwent penance here.
 Paraswanathaiah, a resident of the town also underwent penance here and obtained nirvana at Penukonda in Andhra Pradesh.

Resdients said that official neglect has allowed the temple’s once-beautiful exteriors to fall into disrepair.

 The temple’s intricately-carved pillars are in poor condition and the temple itself has not been renovated. The area around the temple have become polluted and the location is a den of illegal activity.

Local residents say thugs indulge in gambling and drinking in broad daylight. Though citizens and devotees have lodged complaints with the police and the taluk administration, they said that no action has been taken. “This continued apathy has led to the theft bid.”