A church converted into a temple after Hindu families returned to Hindu Dharma in Rajasthan

The church was converted into a temple

Banswada (Rajasthan) – A church is being converted into a Hindu temple  dedicated  to Bhagwan Bhairavji in Sodaladoodha village, Gangadtalai, Banswara, Rajasthan. Notably, the Church used to be a temple around 125 years ago. The development came after the church’s pastor, Gautam Garasiya, and 80 Christian families in the area decided to do ghar wapsi to Hinduism under the Bharat Mata Mandir Project.

According to media reports, the church witnessed Sunday prayers for decades and housed a Christian cross. However, following the conversion, it has been painted saffron. Since 9^th March, the chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ echo in the temple instead of biblical verses.

1.Garasiya had adopted Christianity 30 years ago and later became a pastor. He has now returned to Hinduism along with several villagers. The transformation work for the temple was in full swing for the 9^thMarch event. While the building has been painted saffron, major changes are being made to the internal structure as well. The elevated prayer space inside the building is being transformed into a pedestal for Bhairavji’s idol. Furthermore, the roof of the hall was flattened and all doors and walls got a saffron hue.

2.Reportedly, Gautam was the first person in Sodaladoodha to convert to Christianity three decades ago. Soon, the Christian population grew in the area, and he was appointed as the pastor of the village. He would organise Sunday prayer meetings in his hut. Three years ago, he proposed the construction of a church, which was later built.

3.As his influence grew, several villagers, including his family members, adopted Christianity. However, in recent years, Gautam, his two sons, their families, and other relatives returned to Hinduism. Last year, 30 out of 45 converted villagers did ghar wapsi following Gautam’s footsteps. The remaining 15 are expected to do the same.

4.According to the report, the Christian symbols inside the church are being replaced with Hindu imagery. A framed picture of Bhagwan Ram has been placed on a chair inside. The idol of Bhairavji is being brought from Talwara to Gangadtalai. The entrance of the village has also been adorned with religious flags of local deities, marking the resurgence of Sanatan Dharma.