A controversy has arisen at the renowned Varadaraja Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, following allegations of changes made to the golden and silver coatings on the temple’s iconic lizard statues. The issue surfaced after a complaint was filed by a devotee, Rangaraja Narasimha, claiming that the original gold and silver coatings on the statues were replaced during ongoing renovations.
In response, the idol shifting prohibition division of the police has launched an investigation into the matter.
The temple’s Executive Officer, Rajyalakshmi, was questioned for over eight hours by the police on Wednesday, along with other temple staff. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities instructing the EO and other officials to appear for further questioning as necessary.
The golden and silver lizard statues at the Varadaraja Perumal Temple are considered sacred by devotees, believed to have purifying properties. According to legend, the statues represent two disciples of the sage Gautama Maharishi, who were cursed to become lizards after a mishap. They are said to have received salvation by praying at the temple.