News for 'temples'

Rahul Gandhi booked over Ram temple 'chanda chori' skit at Parl

Rahul Gandhi booked over Ram temple 'chanda chori' skit at Parl

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Bharatiya Janata Party leaders and seers have filed police complaints and FIRs against Rahul Gandhi, Pappu Yadav, and Awadhesh Prasad for a skit performed in Parliament, alleging it mocked Sanatan culture and ridiculed Indian traditions concerning Ram Temple donations.

Ram Temple Trust performs 'atonement' ritual after donation theft

Ram Temple Trust performs 'atonement' ritual after donation theft

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is conducting a 10-day purification ritual, including the recitation of Vishnu Sahasranama Stotra, to 'atone' for a recent donation theft at the Ayodhya Ram Temple complex and 'seek forgiveness' from the Almighty.

Arya Samaj certificate alone no proof of Hindu marriage, rules HC

Arya Samaj certificate alone no proof of Hindu marriage, rules HC

Rediff.com11 hours ago

The Allahabad High Court has ruled that an Arya Samaj marriage certificate alone does not prove a valid Hindu marriage unless essential ceremonies under the Hindu Marriage Act are performed. This decision led to the reinstatement of an SSB officer who was dismissed for allegedly falsely declaring his marital status, as the court found no evidence of the required rituals in his disputed marriage.

Suspended employee arrested for Badrinath temple donation irregularities

Suspended employee arrested for Badrinath temple donation irregularities

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Uttarakhand Police have arrested Pramod Nautiyal, a suspended employee of the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC), in connection with alleged irregularities in the handling of donations at the Badrinath temple. Nautiyal, formerly PA to the BKTC chairman, faces questioning after an FIR was lodged and an inquiry committee found prima facie evidence against him.

SBI to oversee new donation counting system at Ram Temple

SBI to oversee new donation counting system at Ram Temple

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The Ram Temple trust in Ayodhya has implemented a new, two-shift system for counting cash donations, overseen by the State Bank of India (SBI), following an embezzlement scandal. A new team, including ex-servicemen and supervisors, has been deployed to enhance security and transparency in the process, aiming to prevent future theft and restore public trust.

Badrinath Temple Donations Under Scanner: Employee Booked

Badrinath Temple Donations Under Scanner: Employee Booked

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

A suspended employee of the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee has been booked for alleged irregularities in handling donations at the Badrinath temple. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami condemned the act, calling it a "sin akin to cow slaughter," while a high-level government inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the matter. The Congress party has also demanded a judicial probe.

Badrinath donation theft: Temple ex-officer arrested after 4-hr grilling

Badrinath donation theft: Temple ex-officer arrested after 4-hr grilling

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

The probe into the alleged Badrinath Temple donation theft case is gaining pace as former temple officer of Badrinath Temple Rajendra Chauhan has been arrested by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) following four hours of questioning on Friday.

Ganeshotsav 2026: From Jaipur To Nashville

Ganeshotsav 2026: From Jaipur To Nashville

Rediff.com23 hours ago

Ganeshotsav 2026 celebrations span Jaipur, Odisha, Goa, Mumbai, and Nashville in the USA, as devotees share heartfelt prayers, first-time experiences, and festive joy.

SEE: US Ambassador Sergio Gor visits Lalbaugcha Raja

SEE: US Ambassador Sergio Gor visits Lalbaugcha Raja

Rediff.com6 days ago

Political leaders and dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, joined devotees across the country in celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi with traditional fervour, offering prayers and seeking blessings.

'A disgraceful blot': Nripendra Mishra on Ram temple donation theft

'A disgraceful blot': Nripendra Mishra on Ram temple donation theft

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Ram Temple Construction Committee Chairman Nripendra Mishra stated that the alleged donation theft at the Ayodhya temple was a 'disgraceful blot' and expressed confidence that the temple management system would be improved to prevent future incidents.

8 Countries Where Lord Ganesha Is Worshipped

8 Countries Where Lord Ganesha Is Worshipped

Rediff.com7 days ago

Over centuries, the beloved deity travelled across Asia, acquiring new names, forms and traditions along the way.

Will Ram temple trust decide on new CEO, secretary today?

Will Ram temple trust decide on new CEO, secretary today?

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is set to hold crucial meetings to appoint a new general secretary, fill three vacant trustee posts, and deliberate on the appointment of the temple's first Chief Executive Officer (CEO), all while addressing the ongoing donation theft controversy and the Supreme Court's call for a fair investigation.

Happy 76th, Modi,ji!

Happy 76th, Modi,ji!

Rediff.com4 days ago

From a milk abhishek and aarti in Patna and Vadnagar to blood donation camps in Delhi, sand art tributes in Puri and Agartala, and havan pujas in Jammu, BJP leaders and others nationwide honoured the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 76th birthday with prayers, service drives and tributes.

'Modi Doesn't Take Decisions In A Day'

'Modi Doesn't Take Decisions In A Day'

Rediff.com4 days ago

'If he settles on something, there are fifty considerations behind it -- the pros and cons, all of it.'

Nepal's Hindu Rashtra Debate

Nepal's Hindu Rashtra Debate

Rediff.com7 days ago

Nepal's Hindu groups have sought an all-party discussion on restoring Hindu-nation status within three months.

Ram temple theft drives judge to moot death penalty for corruption

Ram temple theft drives judge to moot death penalty for corruption

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Justice Atul Sreedharan of the Allahabad High Court has made strong observations on systemic corruption in India, suggesting the death penalty for offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act. He criticised the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple and the Uttar Pradesh government's "bulldozer actions," highlighting the normalisation of corruption and the state's complicity in unauthorised constructions.

Nirmohi Akhara moves SC seeking reconstitution of Ram temple trust

Nirmohi Akhara moves SC seeking reconstitution of Ram temple trust

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

The Nirmohi Akhara has approached the Supreme Court, seeking a directive to the Centre to reconstitute the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Theerth Kshetra Trust as a 'public trust' and include structural safeguards for oversight by seers, citing alleged large-scale embezzlement of donations.

As Ram temple trust meets, chairman says 'deeply hurt'

As Ram temple trust meets, chairman says 'deeply hurt'

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust held a crucial meeting in Ayodhya to deliberate on the resignations of general secretary Champat Rai and member Anil Mishra, following allegations of embezzlement of donations. The meeting also reviewed the ongoing SIT probe into the alleged theft.

Ram temple trust begins search for CEO. Check the criteria

Ram temple trust begins search for CEO. Check the criteria

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has invited applications for the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. This new position aims to strengthen administrative and financial management following alleged embezzlement concerns. The CEO will be appointed for a three-year term, overseeing various aspects from finance to pilgrim facilities, and must be an actively practising Hindu with specific managerial experience.

Ram temple theft: 'Important documents' found in accused's house

Ram temple theft: 'Important documents' found in accused's house

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The police sealed the room in the rented house of the accused. The police have taken the DVR of the CCTV camera installed at Mishra's rented house into their custody, official sources said.

'5,200 applications': Ram Temple Trust defers CEO selection by a month

'5,200 applications': Ram Temple Trust defers CEO selection by a month

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on Wednesday deferred the selection of its first chief executive officer (CEO) by a month after receiving 5,200 applications for the post and decided to appoint a secretary in the interim to meet growing administrative requirements.

'Entire truth...': Champat Rai breaks silence on Ram temple donation

'Entire truth...': Champat Rai breaks silence on Ram temple donation

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Former Ram temple trust chief Champat Rai has stated he will address all allegations of donation embezzlement against him only after the Special Investigation Team (SIT) submits its final report. Rai, who observed 'maun dharan' (silence) on the matter, highlighted that the SIT's preliminary report has already been made public. The trust has appointed an interim general secretary and acknowledged the theft from donation boxes, while also appreciating Rai's contributions.

Ram Temple theft: SC expands SIT; seeks status report in two weeks

Ram Temple theft: SC expands SIT; seeks status report in two weeks

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court on Monday took note of setting up of a four-member SIT headed by IGP Kiran S to probe alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya and asked the Uttar Pradesh government to also include a forensic auditor in the probe team.

Have not been removed from Ram Temple trust, clarifies Gopal Rao

Have not been removed from Ram Temple trust, clarifies Gopal Rao

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Gopal Nagarakatte alias Gopal Rao, a special invitee member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, has clarified his status amidst allegations and an ongoing donation theft probe. Rao stated he was asked to temporarily step away from meetings, not removed, and denied all allegations except those related to the theft. His remarks follow the Trust's announcement of other resignations and his own removal as an administrator, as a Special Investigation Team continues to probe nearly 70 suspected instances of theft at the Ram Temple.

Modi concerned over Ram temple donation theft: Vinay Katiyar

Modi concerned over Ram temple donation theft: Vinay Katiyar

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader and former MP Vinay Katiyar on Friday said he has spoken to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the Ram temple donations' theft issue and he "expressed concern".

Crucial Ram temple trust meeting today amid donation row

Crucial Ram temple trust meeting today amid donation row

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is set to hold a critical meeting in Ayodhya to address the ongoing probe into alleged donation theft and the resignations of its general secretary and a trustee. The meeting will review the SIT report and discuss potential appointments.

Rahul, Kharge write to Modi for probe into Ram temple theft

Rahul, Kharge write to Modi for probe into Ram temple theft

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding an independent investigation into alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram temple. They highlighted that devotees feel betrayed and urged the Prime Minister to ensure accountability and make the Trust's financial affairs public. The controversy follows the arrest of eight people and the resignation of two Trust functionaries in connection with the alleged theft.

Four-member temple panel to probe Badrinath Dham donation irregularities

Four-member temple panel to probe Badrinath Dham donation irregularities

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee has formed a four-member panel to investigate alleged irregularities in pilgrims' offerings and donations at Badrinath Dham. The allegations, which went viral on social media, have sparked political controversy in Uttarakhand, with the Congress demanding strict action. The inquiry will examine CCTV footage and statements, with a report due in seven days.

Hindu Outfit's Visit Provokes Eiffel Staff Strike

Hindu Outfit's Visit Provokes Eiffel Staff Strike

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Eiffel Tower employees launched a strike, leading to the iconic landmark's closure, after allegations surfaced that female staff were asked to vacate their posts during a visit by the Hindu religious organisation BAPS.

Ram Temple theft hurts devotees, says Shinde; targets Uddhav on Siddhivinayak

Ram Temple theft hurts devotees, says Shinde; targets Uddhav on Siddhivinayak

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Maharashtra deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday said the alleged embezzlement of donations to the Ram Temple at Ayodhya has pained devotees, but stressed strict action will be taken against those found guilty in the case.

SC to hear appeals challenging verdict declaring Bhojshala as Saraswati temple

SC to hear appeals challenging verdict declaring Bhojshala as Saraswati temple

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear appeals challenging the Madhya Pradesh High Court's decision to designate the Bhojshala complex as a Goddess Saraswati temple, a ruling that also quashed Muslim prayer rights at the historic site.

Ram temple employee who counted cash named prime accused

Ram temple employee who counted cash named prime accused

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

A preliminary report by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has identified Avinash Shukla as the prime accused in the alleged theft of devotees' offerings at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, linking him to a suspected 40-day racket involving nearly 70 instances of pilferage from the donation-counting system.

Can Ram Temple Trust restore devotees' faith after donation scam?

Can Ram Temple Trust restore devotees' faith after donation scam?

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Residents and pilgrims in Ayodhya are anxiously awaiting the outcome of a Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust meeting, convened amidst serious allegations of embezzlement of temple donations. The controversy has led to a subdued public mood, concerns among devotees about the security of their offerings, and calls for strict action against those responsible, including "big people" behind the alleged scam. Security has been heightened as an SIT investigates and arrests have been made.

Dhurandhar Director's Wish For Ranveer-Deepika's Baby

Dhurandhar Director's Wish For Ranveer-Deepika's Baby

Rediff.com18 hours ago

Filmmaker Aditya Dhar, who directed Ranveer Singh in Dhurandhar, Kareena Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, Raveena Tandon have extended his warm wishes to Bollywood power couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh on the joyous arrival of their second daughter.

Slipper attack on Pappu Yadav at presser as he defends Ram Temple theft skit

Slipper attack on Pappu Yadav at presser as he defends Ram Temple theft skit

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The controversy surrounding the Parliament Ram Mandir skit intensified on Sunday after a clash broke out at the residence of Purnia MP Pappu Yadav, who had portrayed a temple priest wearing saffron robes during the performance in Parliament on Friday.

Ram Temple donation probe: Security guards under scanner

Ram Temple donation probe: Security guards under scanner

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The investigation into alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya has broadened to include private security personnel. Around 400 guards are under scrutiny for their roles in managing entry, exit, and offerings, with police examining duty records, CCTV footage, and potential negligence or complicity in theft. This follows the arrest of eight individuals and the resignation of two trust members after a Special Investigation Team was formed.

'Scrutinise call records': Akhilesh Yadav alleges BJP link to Ram temple theft

'Scrutinise call records': Akhilesh Yadav alleges BJP link to Ram temple theft

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has intensified his attack on the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, demanding a scrutiny of call detail records of temple employees. He claims a significant majority of them have links to the BJP and accuses the ruling party of prioritising electoral gains over religious values amidst an ongoing SIT probe and recent resignations within the temple trust.

UP govt appoint legal aid for accused in Ram temple theft case

UP govt appoint legal aid for accused in Ram temple theft case

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Uttar Pradesh government has appointed Kulshekhar Singh, an ex-joint director of the Department of Prosecution, as legal aid defence counsel for the accused in the alleged Ram temple donation embezzlement case, following a boycott by the Faizabad Bar Association.

'Don't politicise': SC seeks UP stand on SIT probe into Ram Temple theft

'Don't politicise': SC seeks UP stand on SIT probe into Ram Temple theft

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court on Monday asked the Uttar Pradesh government to apprise it about the possibility of setting up an SIT to probe the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya and cautioned the litigants not to politicise the issue.

SIT report on Ram Temple theft likely soon; may shape trust reforms

SIT report on Ram Temple theft likely soon; may shape trust reforms

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya is expected to submit its final report to the Uttar Pradesh government shortly, sources said on Thursday.