Daijiworld Media Network – Beltangady (RD)

Beltangady, Jul 25: A large idol of Ananthanatha that was erected in the ancient Permanu basadi (Jain prayer house) located in Nada village near here was stolen on Tuesday Jul 24 night. Though it said that the statue was erected by Nadagutthu Yuvaraj Ajri during 1825, it has not yet been completely established. The idol of 2.5 ft height and made out of the mixture of five metals (panchaloha) is now stolen. Though the exact value of the stolen idol is not yet established, it is said that it is lacs of rupees.

The thieves have stolen both the idol that weighed around 45 kilograms along with its silver facade which weighed almost 50 kilograms.   .

The thieves seem to have gathered all the information before they could steal the idol.  They have entered the basadi by breaking open the heavy door located on left side.  Thereafter they have entered in after breaking two solid locks.  They have lifted the idol erected at the sanctum sanctorum. Moreover they have thrown the blade and the broken lock into the nearby well. 

The theft came to light only on Wednesday July 25 morning, when the main priest who lives nearby entered the basadi to offer daily rituals.

There are many idols of various sizes which needs protection, as the basadi lies in dilapidated condition and there are very few households existing in the neighborhood. Two more ancient bronze idols were being stolen from Nidigal temple, two weeks ago.

Several attempts were also made to burgle Bangady basadi in the past.

Due to the fact that the ancient idols fetch large sums in the international market, the trade is flourishing.

Beltangady police have visited the place along with finger print experts and sniffer dog squad.