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Regional Temple Convention organised by Karnataka Mandir Mahasangh in Bagalkot
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Demand for budget allocation for renovation and upkeep of temples
Bagalkot, Karnataka – State Coordinator of Karnataka Mandir Mahasangh, Shri. Mohan Gowda, has demanded that the Karnataka government allocate adequate funds in the state budget for the renovation and upkeep of temples.
Speaking at the Regional Temple Convention organised by Karnataka Mandir Mahasangh in Bagalkot on Saturday, 17 May 2026, Shri. Mohan Gowda highlighted the poor condition of many C-grade temples managed by the Religious Endowment Department. He pointed out that while the government releases thousands of crores for the Waqf Board, Haj Bhavan, salaries for mosque clerics, and related purposes, several temples lack even basic maintenance, such as whitewashing and painting.
Shri. Gowda also noted that around 4,170 temples have gone missing from official records. He further stated that more than four lakh temples are currently under government control, where corruption is rampant and temple funds are being misused for financial exploitation.
The Tirupati laddu prasadam controversy, where animal fat was allegedly mixed while preparing the laddu prasadam, has hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus, he said, adding that a resolution was passed at the convention demanding that all such temples be handed over to devotees for better administration.
Inauguration ceremony
The convention was inaugurated by Shri Janardhana Swamiji of Shraddhananda Ashram, Chikkagalagali, and Vedabrahma Shri Dundayyaswami Hiremath by lighting the ceremonial lamp. Both speakers emphasised the role of temples in the propagation of Dharma.
Priests highlight neglect
Chief priest of Shri Veerabhadreshwara Temple, Muchakhandi, Shri Prabhuswami Saraganachari, expressed concern over temples being converted into tourist centres, resulting in more tourists than devotees. He also criticised the Religious Endowment Department for its poor response to temple issues and said priests have not received “Tastik” financial assistance for the past three years.
Call for religious education to counter love jihad
Shri. Guruprasad Gowda, State Coordinator of Hindu Janajagruti Samiti, stressed the need for temples to impart religious education to Hindu girls and youth to counter rising incidents of love jihad.
Legal guidance & discussions
Advocate Baladeva Sannakki provided legal insights on the Waqf board and temple administration, while Advocate Narayana Yaji offered suggestions and legal guidance on temple-related matters. Group discussions were also held on protecting temples and using them to spread Dharma.
More than 150 trustees, priests, temple representatives, and office-bearers from Bagalkot, Belagavi, Vijayapura, and Kalaburagi districts participated in the convention.