Thefts at BR temple on rise

The incidents of thefts at the Biligiriranganathaswamy Temple atop the BR Hills in the taluk is only on the rise.

Joining the list is the theft of the golden “tilak” of the Goddess Alamelu Ranganayaki. The incident has come to light on Wednesday after devotees discovered a gold-coloured paper stuck to the forehead of the idol of the goddess instead of the golden tilak. The ornament was part of the jewellery that adorned the idol everyday.

Some of the devotees have brought the issue to the notice of Temple Executive Officer M S Venkatesh Prasad, who in turn has confirmed the theft.

The incident has given rise to many suspicions, said Prasad who added that just a week ago, gold earrings of the goddess had also gone “missing.”

The deputy commissioner has been informed about the matter, Prasad said and added that DC who was busy with election work had over the phone directed him to conduct an inquiry. Following the direction a notice would be issued to the Temple priest Sheshadri, he added.

In 1998, the silver “Gumbaarti” (an item used in temple rituals) was stolen. But later it was recovered. Later, silver pooja articles belonging to the temple was thrown in the ravine next to the temple.

In 2012, the golden padukas (sandals) of the Lord Ranganathaswamy was stolen.

The devotees have urged the district administration to take strict action against the offenders and to instal CCTVs at the temple. Incidentally, the brahma rathotsava was held at the temple on Monday.