Swami Avimukteshwaranand, a Shankaracharya, alleged that a significant amount of gold (around 228 kilograms) went missing from the Kedarnath Temple. The head of the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee rejected these allegations, calling them baseless. However, there were discrepancies in the exact amount Swami Avimukteshwaranand mentioned, which raised doubts.
Swami Avimukteshwaranand, the Shankaracharya of Jyotirmath, has made a sensational claim that 228 kilograms of gold have gone missing from the Kedarnath Temple. This is one of the oldest temples in Uttrakhand, India with many myths and beliefs attached to it. Devotees spend millions and hustle to reach here to present their offerings and ask for blessings from the god Shiva.
This statement has sparked a heated response from Ajendra Ajay, the chairman of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee.
Ajay, addressing the media, described the Shankaracharya’s allegations as “unfortunate” and accused him of frequently creating controversies. “Swami Avimukteshwaranand is known for his habit of making sensational statements. If he truly has evidence, he should present it to the proper authorities,” Ajay said.
Moreover, Ajay urged Shankaracharya to take his concerns to a competent authority or even to the courts if he had substantial proof. “He should approach the authorities, demand an inquiry, and if not satisfied, take it to the Supreme Court or High Court,” he added.
Swami Avimukteshwaranand, in his statement on July 15, insisted that a significant amount of gold had vanished and that previous demands for an investigation were not properly addressed. “Whether it’s 320 kg, 228 kg, or any other amount, the question remains—where did the gold go?” he questioned.
Steal or Scam?
Further complicating the matter, reports mention inconsistencies in the exact amount of gold the Shankaracharya mentioned, casting doubt on the specifics of the allegation.
This development comes at a time when a replica of the Kedarnath Temple is being planned in Delhi. Swami Avimukteshwaranand reportedly linked his concerns about the alleged gold theft to the new temple project. He also raised questions about transparency in managing the temple’s assets.
The controversy has stirred public interest and raised questions about the management of temple resources. The temple committee, however, has denied any wrongdoing and insists on evidence before launching an investigation.
