Siddhivinayak Temple Bans Offerings for Security

Mumbai's Siddhivinayak Temple will halt coconut, garland, and 'prasad' offerings starting May 11, citing security concerns. The temple, a major religious site, receives many visitors and has been targeted by terrorist threats. Alternatives and heightened security measures are being implemented for devotee safety.

The iconic Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai will stop accepting coconuts, garlands, and 'prasad' offerings beginning May 11 due to heightened security concerns. The temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is a prominent religious site that sees thousands of devotees and has been identified as a potential target for terrorist activities.

Sada Sarvankar, chairman of the Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Mandir Trust, stated that the decision follows numerous government and police advisories regarding security threats. One concern is that coconuts are not detected during security screenings, and there is a risk of 'prasad' being poisoned.

Efforts are underway to address the impact on local vendors while enhancing security measures, including hiring 20 former armed forces personnel. Sarvankar emphasized that the temple is committed to the safety of its devotees, working closely with local authorities to ensure a secure environment.

(With inputs from agencies.)