Ancient idol stolen from Jharkhand temple
By IANSFriday, July 2, 2010
RANCHI - Two people were detained Friday after a three century old idol of goddess Chhinmastika was stolen from Rajrappa temple in Jharkhand’s Ramgarh district, creating a sensation in the state.
The idol, made of precious stones, was found missing when the priests opened the temple at 4 a.m. Friday to perform the morning prayers.
The eyes of the idol, made of gold, were also stolen along with 40 kg of silver robes and other jewellery.
The temple is one of the Shaktipeethas, a place of worship dedicated to the goddess Sati.
According to police sources, two suspects have been detained and are being interrogated.
Thousands visit the temple every day. The theft has sparked anger and disappointment among the devout.
Sensing the mood, senior Jharkhand politicians and officials visited the shrine Friday.
A team of artisans from Jaipur are expected to prepare a new idol of the goddess.
