by Sanjay Saxena
Prayagraj: In a remarkable turn of events, two ancient idols of Radha and Krishna, made up of Ashtadhatu (eight-metal Alloy) stolen from Gau Ghat at Shringverpur Dham, were returned after the thief experienced a change of heart. The incident unfolded on the night of September 22, when the idols, were taken from their sacred site. According to the reports, the stolen idol was almost 100 years old and has great spiritual significance.
Following the theft, local police registered a case and initiated an investigation, detaining two suspects for questioning. Despite their efforts, no significant leads emerged. The temple priest, Shri Shri 1008 Shri Jairam Das, also known as Falhari Baba, had resorted to fasting, renouncing fruits and water, but resumed drinking water after four days due to the officials’ encouragement.
During the week-long investigation, a breakthrough occurred when passersby discovered a bag abandoned by the side of the National Highway. Upon opening it, they found the stolen idols along with a letter from the thief. In the letter, the thief revealed that after stealing the idols, his son fell seriously ill, prompting him to feel remorse for his actions and ultimately leading to the decision to return the idols.
The return of the idols sparked joy among local devotees, who gathered at the ashram to celebrate. Chants of praise for Radha and Krishna filled the air as the idols were ceremoniously reinstalled in the temple. Prayers and bhajan-kirtan followed, marking a joyous reunion of the sacred artifacts with the community.
This unexpected conclusion to the idol theft highlights not only the deep spiritual significance of the idols but also the profound sense of remorse that can arise from wrongdoing.
