Mumbai Priest Arrested After Kali Idol Was Transformed to Resemble Mother Mary

Hindu Voice Team: A priest in Mumbai has been arrested after altering the idol of Goddess Kali inside a temple to resemble Mother Mary, sparking outrage among devotees and religious groups.

The incident took place at a Kali temple located in the Chembur area, within a Hindu cremation ground in Anik Village. Devotees were shocked to find the once-dark-skinned deity repainted white, dressed in golden robes, and crowned with a large headdress topped by a golden cross. Even more startling was the figure of a baby — interpreted as Jesus — placed in the deity’s arms.

Police promptly intervened. The altered idol was restored to its original form in their presence to avoid communal tensions.

The priest, identified as Ramesh Yogeshwar, 50, was arrested and remanded to two days of police custody. He claimed that the transformation was divinely inspired — according to him, Goddess Kali appeared in his dream and instructed him to present her in the guise of Mother Mary.

A formal case has been filed under Section 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which deals with acts intended to hurt religious sentiments. Hindu organizations such as the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal have strongly condemned the incident, demanding a thorough investigation and strict punishment for those responsible.

The arrest underscores the sensitivity surrounding religious symbols and the potential for social unrest when such symbols are altered. Authorities say the probe is ongoing, including whether the priest acted alone or if others were involved.