Nanjangud: Sri Srikanteshwara Swamy Temple, popularly known as Dakshina Kashi, has recorded a donation collection of more than Rs 2.64 crore during the latest hundi counting, marking one of the highest collections for the renowned temple in Mysuru district.
The two-day counting exercise was carried out under heightened security measures following incidents of hundi theft reported at temples across the country, including the Sri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
Tight security during counting
Temple authorities conducted the hundi counting under stringent police security with continuous CCTV surveillance.
In accordance with the Karnataka government’s latest guidelines, the counting process was carried out exclusively by temple staff, bank employees and Home Guards. No outsiders were involved in the exercise.
Officials said the enhanced security arrangements were introduced to ensure transparency and safeguard the donations received from devotees.
Cash, gold and silver recovered
According to temple authorities, the total collection from the hundis amounted to Rs 2,64,29,610 in cash.
In addition to cash, the temple also received:
- 97.700 grams of gold
- 2.660 kilograms of silver
- Foreign currency
- Rs 2,000 denomination currency notes
The offerings reflect the continued devotion of thousands of pilgrims who visit the historic shrine throughout the year.
Counting completed over two days
The counting exercise was conducted on Wednesday and Thursday.
Officials said the entire process was completed under the supervision of Temple Executive Officer Krishna, with all procedures being monitored through CCTV cameras to maintain accountability and transparency.
The administration stated that the revised counting procedure was implemented in line with the government’s new directions aimed at strengthening security during temple hundi counts.
Temple remains a major pilgrimage centre
Sri Srikanteshwara Swamy Temple at Nanjangud is one of Karnataka’s most prominent Shiva temples and is widely known as Dakshina Kashi. The shrine attracts devotees from across Karnataka and neighbouring states, particularly during festivals and special religious occasions.
The temple regularly records substantial donations through hundis, reflecting its significance as a major pilgrimage destination.
Conclusion
The latest hundi counting at the Sri Srikanteshwara Swamy Temple has yielded donations exceeding Rs 2.64 crore, along with gold, silver and foreign currency. Authorities said the counting was conducted under strict security and surveillance to ensure transparency and protect devotees’ offerings.