Gadag / Lakkundi / Bengaluru: An atmosphere of fear and uncertainty has once again gripped Lakkundi, a historically significant village in Gadag district, following renewed reports of illegal treasure hunting near ancient temples, raising serious concerns over the safety of Karnataka’s heritage structures.
The latest focus of the alleged treasure hunters is the ancient Goni Basaveshwara Temple, located on the outskirts of Lakkundi. Though the temple currently lies in a dilapidated condition, it is believed to date back to an ancient era and holds immense archaeological and cultural value.
According to locals, miscreants have repeatedly targeted this temple, driven by the long-standing belief that hidden gold and valuables lie buried beneath Lakkundi’s historic structures. Similar incidents were reported earlier and even telecast on television channels, but the recent developments have once again reignited panic in the village.
Statue Shifted, Deep Pits Dug
Villagers revealed that around a year ago, unidentified persons had allegedly shifted the Basavanna idol from its original position and dug a pit nearly six to seven feet deep, believing that treasure was buried beneath the statue. Objects associated with ritualistic practices and superstition, including lemons and other materials, were reportedly found at the site—suggesting attempts at occult practices aimed at “unlocking” hidden wealth.
Despite repeated digging, it remains unclear whether the treasure hunters succeeded in finding anything. However, the damage caused to the temple structure is clearly visible even today, with stones displaced and the sanctity of the site disturbed.
Police Inspection, But Fear Persists
After previous incidents came to light, police officials had visited the spot and conducted an inspection. However, villagers claim that the threat has not subsided, especially after recent reports of a family allegedly finding buried treasure in the region, which has once again turned attention toward ancient temples.
“There is a widespread belief that wherever you dig in Lakkundi—be it homes or temples—you will find gold. This myth is pushing treasure hunters to destroy our heritage,” a local resident said.
Heritage Under Threat
Lakkundi is often described as a land of historic temples and inscriptions, and any damage to these structures poses a serious cultural loss. Residents fear that continued neglect and lack of security could lead to irreversible damage to centuries-old monuments.
The villagers are now urging the district administration and archaeology department to take immediate steps to protect ancient temples by ensuring surveillance, fencing, and regular monitoring.
Demand for Protection
“There is fear in the village. Our temples are being targeted again and again. Authorities must act before more damage is done,” locals demanded.
With repeated incidents of suspected treasure hunting, questions are now being raised about the preparedness of the administration to safeguard Lakkundi’s priceless heritage before superstition and greed erase history forever.
ಇದನ್ನೂ ಓದಿ: ಲಕ್ಕುಂಡಿಯ ಪುರಾತನ ಬಸವೇಶ್ವರ ದೇವಾಲಯದ ಬಳಿ ನಿಧಿ ಹುಡುಕಾಟ ಶಂಕೆ, ಗ್ರಾಮಸ್ಥರಲ್ಲಿ ಆತಂಕ
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