After PM's snub, Modi temple's inauguration cancelled

Rajkot, Feb 12: After Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed displeasure over reports of a temple being built in his name, the inauguration of the temple at Rajkot has reportedly been cancelled.

As per an ANI report Ramesh Undhad of the Om Yuva Group, maker of Modi-temple in Rajkot, said, "Have now decided to cancel inauguration of "Modi-temple", will now build "Bharat Mata" temple. The programme of mass marriage will be held as planned. Modi ji will remain in our hearts."

Earlier in the day, appalled by reports of a temple being built in his name, the Prime Minister asked people to instead put time and resources in fulfilling the dream of 'Clean India'.

"Have seen the news about a temple being built in my name. I was appalled. This is shocking & against India's great traditions.

"Building such temples is not what our culture teaches us. Personally, it made me very sad. Would urge those doing it not to do it," he said.

His reaction came after it was reported that supporters of Modi in Rajkot in his home state Gujarat have built a temple for him. The temple, with a bust of Modi in the sanctum, stands on Kothariya road and is planned to be inaugurated on February 16. The temple was likely to be thrown open to public on Sunday.

"If you have time & resources, please devote the same towards fulfilling our dream of a Clean India," Modi tweeted.

It took about two years for Modi's supporters to build the temple. An artist from Odisha was called to construct Modi's idol.

"It is a first of its kind in Gujarat, temple of a living person," said Jayesh Patel, leader of Om Yuva Group.

OneIndia News

(With inputs from PTI)