Udupi: Hunt for Treasure at Ninni-Kallu - Locals Suspect Conspiracy

Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (NM)

Udupi, Oct 28: An attempt to dig for treasure at the historic 'Ninni-Kallu Paade' of Nandikoor near here was reported on Saturday October 27.

In the middle of the Ninne-Kallu rock lies a carved idol of Kalabairaveshwara. It is reported that miscreants dug nearly 8 feet deep below the idol, indicating futile effort to find a treasure.

The idol was said to be carved during king Kunda Hegde's era around 400 years ago.

A few steps away from the huge rock, a fort belonging to the king Hegde still exists. As it has a long history, it is generally thought that the treasure is buried in the region. It is therefore suspected that digging was mainly in search of the treasure.

Apathy of district administration

Recently, members of various organizations had staged a protest by forming a human chain around Ninni-Kallu Paade, condemning the conversion of historic ‘Ninni-Kallu’ area into an industrial zone. The protesters had also submitted memorandum to the district administration in this regard.

Due to the negligence of the authorities, such incidents have been taking place, said Dr Y N Shetty, leader of Karnataka Historical Academy, criticizing the apathy of civic bodies.

"The government came to power with a promise to preserve the historical and tourist places of Tulunadu, however, no plans have been implemented to preserve these places," he lamented.

"Already, touristic places like Kaup, Kotalkatte, Kota and Udyavar have reached a pitiable. If proper steps are not taken to protect the place, we will intensify our protest," Dr Y N Shetty warned.

Locals suspect conspiracy

KIADB has acquired 60 acres of land in Ninni-Kallu to level the area for industrial purpose.
It is suspected that the digging was done using JCB, and also, branches of a banyan tree were found cut and burnt on the rock, arousing suspicion among the locals that 'search for treasure' was a conspiracy to level the area by dubious means.