Gold artefacts and approximately 78 grams of gold bars and coins have gone missing from Kerala’s famed Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, according to a confidential police report submitted six months ago by the State Police Chief to the state Home Secretary.
The temple, which drew worldwide attention in 2011 when its underground vaults revealed treasures worth billions, is once again thrust into controversy. The report also raised questions about missing artefacts and alleged security lapses at the temple, claims the administration has denied.
Missing Items
| Item | Status |
|---|---|
| Gold bars and coins | 78 grams missing |
| Multi-tiered gold lamp | Original replaced with silver substitute |
| Vaira Nama (diamond-studded ornament) | Unaccounted for over 6 months |
The matter first came to light after the state’s intelligence unit flagged discrepancies in the temple’s inventory. Investigators found that the original gold lamp had not been returned after maintenance work, and a silver substitute had been placed in its stead without any records or authorization.
Questions also surfaced over the Vaira Nama, reportedly removed several months ago for repair work but never restored to its customary place within the shrine.
The inquiry highlighted repeated violations of established security procedures. Investigators found that certain temple staff, security personnel, and individuals associated with the Travancore royal family were routinely exempted from mandatory security checks at the Chembakathummoodu entrance.
The temple administration has dismissed reports of missing valuables as unfounded and misleading, stating that treasures are protected under stringent security arrangements with round-the-clock CCTV surveillance.
Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala confirmed the police report is under government consideration, and Devaswom Minister K Muraleedharan indicated a report has been sought from the court-appointed administrative committee.
The Union Government has also intervened in the matter.
This controversy follows ongoing investigations into missing gold from Sabarimala Temple, raising serious concerns about temple wealth management across Kerala.
Sacred temples and their treasures deserve complete protection and transparent administration.
Follow Dharmic News for updates on temple security and protection of Hindu sacred assets.
