UP Temple Vandalism: ‘Mahabharata-Era’ Shivling Damaged, suspect in custody | WATCH

Uttar Pradesh: A Shivling in the Billeshwar Mahadev temple in Unnao, which is said to be as old as the Mahabharata era. An accused who was said to be suffering from depression desecrated it. The local people were up in arms, and the accused was soon arrested.

Ancient Heritage The Billeshwar Mahadev temple

A history as long as time could trace. Hence, it even turned out to be a troublemaking place when a Shivling was discovered to have been broken off from it. People claimed that Shivling goes as old as Mahabharata time, condemning the incident as an act to defy their religion and history

यूपी के उन्नाव में दो प्राचीन मंदिरों में शिवलिंग तोड़े जाने कि ख़बर के बाद लोगों में आक्रोश देखा गया। पुलिस ने आरोपी ‘अवधेश कुमार कुर्मी’ को गिरफ्तार किया है। pic.twitter.com/bDzQo1vPJ1

— Ashraf Hussain (@AshrafFem) January 8, 2025

Man Confesses to Vandalism

Police have identified the accused as Awadhesh Kurmi, who, allegedly frustrated over his wife's prolonged illness, damaged the Shivling. Additional Superintendent of Police Akhilesh Singh confirmed that Kurmi, reportedly battling depression, admitted to vandalizing not one but two Shivlings in the area

Historical Significance of the Temple

It is said that Billeshwar Mahadev was one such place that Lord Krishna and Arjuna rested here after visiting Hastinapur. According to the locals, the people in the localities say that Lord Krishna had worshiped Shivling by offering preliminary prayer. The act adds historical and religious importance.

Hindu Jagran Manch Condemns the Act

The act of desecration hurts the sentiments of devotees, according to Ajay Trivedi of Hindu Jagran Manch. The holy pond of the temple also signifies spiritual purification, and it became difficult for the worshippers.

Swift police action gives it some relief

That may, of course, provide some relief to the community in question by virtue of the immediate arrest of the accused in police custody. However, the damage inflicted on the centuries-old symbol of faith will surely leave an indelible mark on the devotees.