Archive · 6 Nov 2025
Investigation Launched into Suspected Replacement of Sacred Lizard Plaques at Kanchipuram Temple
There's a famous temple in Kanchipuram where people believe touching special lizard statues made of gold and silver can help with bad luck.
These lizard statues are very old and important to the people who visit.
Someone has reported that these old lizard statues might have been taken away and replaced with new ones during some repair work.
Now, police are asking questions to find out if this really happened.
They have talked to the temple's main officer and other workers.
The police will keep investigating until they know the truth about the lizard statues.
An investigation is underway at the Varadaraja Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, concerning the alleged replacement of ancient golden and silver lizard plaques.
The complaint was filed by Rangaraja Narasimha of Srirangam, leading the Idol Wing CID to initiate an inquiry.
Temple Executive Officer Rajyalakshmi and other staff members have been questioned by the police.
The lizard plaques are considered sacred and are believed to remove spiritual afflictions ('doshas') upon touching.
Legend states that the golden and silver lizards symbolize two disciples of Sage Gautama who were freed from a curse at this temple.
- Who
- Idol Wing CID, Temple Executive Officer Rajyalakshmi, temple staff, and Rangaraja Narasimha
- What
- Investigation into the alleged replacement of ancient golden and silver lizard plaques with new ones at Varadaraja Perumal Temple.
- When
- Ongoing, with questioning occurring on Wednesday.
- Where
- Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
- Why
- A complaint was filed alleging the removal and replacement of sacred lizard plaques, which hold spiritual significance for devotees.
- Temple
- Varadaraja Perumal Temple
- Location
- Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
- Allegation
- Replacement of ancient golden and silver lizard plaques
- Investigating Body
- Idol Wing CID
- Date of Questioning
- Wednesday