Chicken masala packets distributed to the sanitation staff of Shri Vitthal-Rukmini Temple, Pandharpur

Varkaris enraged

Pandharpur, Maharashtra – A shocking incident has come to light wherein the cleaning staff of the Shri Vitthal-Rukmini temple in Pandharpur, a place of worship for lakhs of devotees in Maharashtra, were given chicken masala packets as Diwali gifts. This incident has sparked a wave of anger among the Varkaris and Malkaris. The Varkaris of Pandharpur do not consume non-vegetarian food after wearing the ‘mala’ (sacred garland). Hence, gifting chicken masala packets as Diwali gifts has hurt the sentiments of the Varkaris. They are demanding that the temple committee should take immediate action in this regard. (Why should this demand be made when the committee is supposed to take action by itself ? – Editor)

Editorial Perspective

Result of Government takeover of Hindu temples.