Dalits Enter Karnataka's Kalabhairaveshwara Swamy Temple, Angry Villagers Relocate Idol: Report

Opposing the entry of Dalits into the centuries-old Kalabhairaveshwara Swamy temple, a group of villagers relocated the 'Utsava Murthi'-the ceremonial deities carried around town on major festival days-to a secure area within the temple grounds in Hanakere village, Mandya district, on Sunday.

According to a TOI report, Dalits were permitted to enter the temple, which is managed by the endowment department, following a lengthy meeting with government officials and police officers in Hanakere, located 13 km from Mandya town, on Sunday.

Villagers highlighted that the temple has a long-standing history and was recently renovated under the guidance of former Congress MLA M Srinivas.

Some locals resisted Dalit entry, citing traditional practices and noting that a separate temple for Dalits exists in the village.

Displeased with the decision to allow Dalits into the temple, some villagers moved the 'Utsava Murthi' to a different chamber, asserting they had personally funded it. Amid the ensuing disturbance, the temple was closed for a few hours around midday.

The temple reopened later, and all rituals continued as usual, with devotees from all castes being granted entry. As a precaution, police officers were stationed in the village.

Tahsildar Shivakumar Beeradar expressed confidence that the matter would be resolved amicably.