Junagadh has been rocked by a scandal after a video surfaced showing individuals allegedly consuming liquor and non-vegetarian food inside the bhandara of the Ambaji Temple on Mount Girnar. The clip, which quickly went viral, has sparked outrage among devotees, leading to swift action from temple authorities.
The footage reportedly depicts two to three people enjoying forbidden items while using abusive language in what is considered a sacred space. This blatant disregard for temple sanctity has triggered a serious response; officials suspended eleven staff members, including ten priests and one cook, pending an investigation.
“We can’t tolerate such actions that hurt religious sentiments,” said Junagadh City Mamlatdar A.K. Baraiya. He noted that the suspended staff had already been appointed temporarily due to recent administrative control shifts following disputes over succession after the death of Mahant Tansukhgiri.
To reclaim the sacredness of the site, authorities conducted a purification ritual within the temple complex, particularly focusing on kitchen and dining areas. Additionally, CCTV footage and other evidence are now under review to determine how events unfolded.
This incident isn’t just about misconduct; it’s ignited passionate calls for strict punitive measures from local saints and religious groups. Many are demanding lifetime bans for those seen in the video. A family member of the deceased Mahant expressed their concerns as well, stating that no relatives or affiliated priests were involved and urging for an FIR against all responsible parties.
As investigations continue into this troubling episode at Girnar Temple, community members remain vigilant about ensuring respect for their spiritual heritage.