Worshippers at a Kali temple in Mumbai’s Chembur were left stunned after discovering that the goddess idol had been vandalised to resemble Mother Mary. Police arrested the temple priest and launched an investigation.
The incident occurred on Saturday at the Kali temple located inside the Hindu cremation ground at Anik Village. A photo shows the goddess’s idol dressed in golden robes and wearing a large crown with white embellishments and a prominent golden cross mounted on top.
The face of the deity, traditionally depicted with black or deep blue skin, had been painted white. The idol was shown holding a child figure in her arm, presumed to represent baby Jesus.
The backdrop of the shrine had also been changed to a red cloth featuring a large golden cross, with decorative fairy lights and tinsel draped on both sides.
According to news agency PTI, when devotees asked the temple priest what happened, he claimed the goddess appeared in his dream and instructed him to "adorn her in the form of Mother Mary".
Police swung into action after the vandalism was reported. The Kali idol was restored to its original state in the presence of police to prevent rumours or unrest in the area, officials said.
The temple priest was produced in court after his arrest and remanded to two days of police custody. Officials said he is being questioned to determine the motive being the alteration and whether he acted alone.
A case has been registered under Section 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertains to hurting religious sentiments and damaging a place of worship. Police said strict action will be taken under the provision.
Right-wing groups, including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal, condemned the incident and demanded that all those behind the act be identified and prosecuted. The activists also urged the police and state government to take strong measures to maintain law and order in the area.
Source: India Today