Banke Bihari Temple Silver Erosion: Chemical Perfumes Blamed, Not Theft
In Agra, the management of the Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan has addressed circulating online videos that claimed silver-leafing on the doorframe and threshold of the sanctum sanctorum was stolen, revealing the wood beneath. On Friday, temple officials clarified that the metal is corroding due to devotees applying adulterated and chemical-laced perfumes during rituals, emphatically stating that there was no theft involved.
Rumors Amidst Broader Temple Security Concerns
These rumors emerged against the backdrop of an ongoing probe into the alleged removal of gold-plated copper pieces from the Sabarimala temple in Kerala. This incident is not isolated; in 2023, a seer alleged that 228kg of gold-plating from the internal walls of the Kedarnath temple in Uttarakhand had been stolen. However, after an inquiry ordered under the chairmanship of the Garhwal commissioner, the Badarinath Kedarnath Temple Committee found no discrepancies or irregularities, highlighting a pattern of unsubstantiated claims in temple contexts.
Investigation Reveals Chemical Reaction as Cause
Dinesh Goswami, a member of the Banke Bihari high-powered management committee, explained the findings: "Our investigations revealed that direct contact with adulterated, chemical-based perfumes available in the market is causing a chemical reaction to silver. As a result, the metal eroded completely in several places, exposing the wooden base beneath." To enhance security and prevent future misunderstandings, CCTV cameras will now be installed around the sanctum sanctorum, Goswami added.
Devotee Offerings and Temple Maintenance
Goswami further informed that devotees regularly offer silver to the deity, and this metal is utilized within the temple premises. Earlier this month, a significant offering of 10.5 kg of silver from a devotee was installed at the threshold doorway of the sanctum sanctorum. This installation is expected to last nearly 20 years, underscoring the temple's ongoing maintenance efforts and the community's devotion.
The temple management's response aims to quell rumors and reassure devotees about the sanctity and security of the Banke Bihari temple, emphasizing that the erosion is a natural consequence of ritual practices rather than any malicious activity.
