A controversy has erupted in Karnataka’s Kodagu district after a group of people entered the premises of the historic Sri Siddeshwara Temple at Gaddi Betta in Virajpet taluk and performed what residents described as a “Chadar Chadhana” ritual associated with Islamic traditions.
Videos and photographs of the alleged incident have gone viral on social media, triggering protests by residents and Hindu organisations, who have demanded strict action against those involved. The incident is reported to have taken place at the Sri Siddeshwara Temple, situated in the forested region near Maldare-Mathur in Virajpet taluk.
According to residents, a group of people arrived at the temple in a car, entered the temple premises, and offered a ceremonial chadar and flowers while performing prayers. Some reports also alleged that the group created a structure resembling a grave near the temple, placed flowers on it, and prayed.
The issue soon snowballed into a larger protest, with several Hindu organisations condemning the incident and demanding the immediate identification and arrest of those responsible. Protesters asserted that places of worship should be respected in accordance with their established religious traditions and urged the authorities to prevent similar incidents in future.
The controversy also brought the Forest Department under scrutiny, as the temple is located inside a forest area where access is regulated. Residents questioned forest officials over the alleged lapse, claiming that ordinary devotees are often required to follow strict rules and obtain permission before entering the area.
Police sources said the matter is under investigation, and officials are verifying the authenticity of the viral photographs and videos before taking further action. Investigators are also attempting to identify the individuals seen in the visuals and ascertain the sequence of events that unfolded at the temple premises.
Kodagu temple row: Massive outrage after alleged Chadar Chadhana ritual at Sri Siddeshwara Temple; police investigating.
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