Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Mar 8: It was found on Monday March 7 morning that premises at the Parshwanatha stone Basadi at Padupanambur near Haleangady in the taluk was dug up by people searching for hidden treasure. This Basadi, which is about 600 years old, is in dilapidated condition.

Land near the pedestal of the idol inside the sanctum sanctorum of the Basadi was found to have been dug up in a eight-feet diameter spot. The spot bears telltale signs of the intruders having made efforts to search for the hidden treasure. This Basadi, built of stones, is under the administration of a family belonging to a royal lineage here. Recently, the stone idol of the presiding deity had been shifted to Bhagawan Ananthanathqa Swami Basadi of Padupanambur, which was recently renovated, to ensure better safety.

M Dugganna Savantha, who heads the royal family here, informed that as per history, families of merchants used to come to the Basadi from the seashore and proceed onward only after performing puja here. He said that plans are afoot to renovate this Basadi, but it will require a long range plan.

Similar attempts had been made in this Basadi twice in the past during the last four years. During the second attempt, stones of the pedestal had been destroyed before digging the spot, and signs of witchcraft having been practiced there were evident. This time also different colour powders were found to have been spread around the sanctum sanctorum, and the soil dug out was dumped outside.

The locals want the government to undertake renovation of the Basadi, although it is not under government administration. They say that Basadis and other structures that are old are governed by various regulations, making it difficult for locals to undertake repair and renovation.

This Basadi is located in a secluded, elevated location. Some people who visited nearby Kalkuda shrine saw that sand had been spread out inside the Basadi, and thereafter conveyed information to the concerned. On the basis of complaint filed by Dugganna savantha, a case stands registered in Mulky police station.