Statue Vandalized Over Hidden Treasure Myth

Four individuals were apprehended by police on Friday in connection with the vandalism of the Saraswati statue at the historic Trikuteshwara temple. The incident occurred on July 10, and the arrested accused, all from Belagavi district, have confessed to their actions. They admitted to using an iron punch to damage the statue, driven by a mistaken belief that a hidden treasure lay beneath it.

Authorities are currently seeking a fifth suspect named Vitthal, who remains at large. The Trikuteshwara temple, a protected historical monument believed to have been constructed in the 8th century, has a history of being defaced, with previous damage recorded in the 16th century. This latest act has raised concerns among heritage enthusiasts and the local community.