Image Source: Hindu Tamil

Police have launched a search for unidentified persons who allegedly stole an emerald (maragatha) Shiva lingam from the ancient Kasi Viswanathar–Kasi Visalakshi Temple at Ilaiyur village near Jayankondam in Ariyalur district.

The temple, which comes under the control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department, is known for housing a maragatha lingam as the presiding deity. The shrine attracts a large number of devotees, particularly on Pradosham days and other auspicious occasions dedicated to Lord Shiva.

According to police, special poojas were performed at the temple on Pradosham on the previous day. After the rituals, the temple priest Kaliyaperumal (81) locked the temple, placed the key near his head, and slept inside the premises. When he woke up the next morning, he found the key missing and noticed that the temple door had been opened. Upon checking, he discovered that the emerald lingam had been stolen.

On receiving information, Ariyalur Superintendent of Police Viswesh Balasubramaniam Sastri, Jayankondam DSP Ravichakravarthi, and HR&CE Jayankondam Executive Officer Sivaneyaselvan, along with other officials, visited the temple and conducted an inspection.

Police are examining CCTV footage from cameras installed at the temple and in nearby houses and have begun an investigation to identify and trace those involved in the theft.

Source: Hindu Tamil

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The post Emerald Shiva Lingam Stolen From Ilaiyur Kasi Viswanathar Temple In Ariyalur; Police Launch Probe appeared first on The Commune.