5 'ashtadhatu' idols worth crores stolen

Azamgarh, Nov 24 (UNI) Five 'ashtadhatu' (eight metal metal) idols, estimated to be worth Rs 1.5 crore in the international market, were today found stolen from an ancient temple in Atrauli area here.

According to temple priest Mahant Indrajit Tiwari, he had left the Ram Janaki temple for home after evening prayers and rituals.

However, Mahant Tiwari found the five idols of Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Vishnu and Radha missing, when he returned to the temple this morning.

Besides, the thieves also took Rs 3,000 in cash and other valuables, the priest claimed.

Police have started investigations in this regard.

UNI XC VS RR BST1829