Worshippers at a Kali Mandir in Chembur, Mumbai, were shocked to find that the murti of Maa Kali had been defaced to resemble Mother Mary. Following the discovery, police arrested the Mandir’s pandit and initiated an investigation.
The incident took place on November 22 at the Kali Mandir situated within the Hindu cremation ground in Anik Village. Photographs reveal the murti adorned in golden robes, wearing a large crown with white decorations, and topped with a prominent golden cross. The deity’s face, normally depicted in black or deep blue, had been painted white. The murti was also shown holding a child figure in her arms, believed to represent baby Jesus.
The shrine’s backdrop had been altered as well, replaced with a red cloth displaying a large golden cross, and adorned with decorative fairy lights and tinsel on either side.
According to sources, when devotees questioned the Mandir pandit about the changes, he claimed that the maa had appeared in his dream and instructed him to “adorn her in the form of Mother Mary.”
Following the report of the vandalism, police took immediate action. Officials said the Kali murti was restored to its original appearance in the presence of police to prevent rumours or unrest in the area.
The Mandir pandit was presented in court following his arrest and remanded for two days of police custody. Officials stated that he is being questioned to determine the motive behind the alterations and whether he acted alone.
A case has been registered under Section 295 of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with hurting religious sentiments and damaging a place of worship. Police confirmed that strict action will be taken under the law.
Right-wing groups, including the Vishva Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal, condemned the incident, demanding that everyone responsible be identified and prosecuted. The activists also urged the police and state government to take stringent measures to ensure law and order in the area.
