Ancient Idols Worth ₹1.5 Crore Stolen from Historic Bihar Monastery Weeks After CM's Visit

A major theft at a centuries-old monastery in Bihar's Samastipur district has sparked outrage after nearly 200-year-old Ashtadhatu (eight-metal alloy) idols of Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshman, along with precious ornaments, a donation box and other religious items, were stolen from the sanctum sanctorum of the historic Chakoti Math.

The theft reportedly took place late on Saturday night in Khanpur block. According to officials, the stolen idols and valuables are collectively valued at around ₹1.5 crore.

The incident came to light on Sunday morning when the temple priest arrived to perform the daily rituals and found the sanctum open. Upon entering, he discovered that the ancient idols, ceremonial bow and arrows, umbrella, jewellery, donation box and several other valuable religious artifacts were missing.

The priest immediately alerted local residents and the police. As news of the theft spread, a large number of devotees gathered at the monastery, expressing anger and concern over the loss of the revered idols.

Police from Khanpur Police Station reached the spot and launched an investigation. A Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team also examined the crime scene and collected evidence. Investigators are currently scanning CCTV footage from the monastery and nearby areas to identify the culprits.

Officials said the stolen Ashtadhatu idols are around 200 years old, while several of the missing ornaments are believed to be made of gold and other precious metals, making the theft one of the most significant temple burglaries in the region.

The historic Chakoti Math, established nearly two centuries ago, is a prominent centre of religious faith in the region. Since 2012, it has been overseen by Mahamandaleshwar Shri Ram Sevak Das Maharaj.

The monastery had recently hosted an 11-day Vishnu Mahayagya and Pran Pratishtha Mahotsav in June 2026. On June 24, Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary visited the monastery and participated in the consecration ceremony of idols representing the 24 incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

Mahamandaleshwar Shri Ram Sevak Das Maharaj said the stolen idols had been handed down to him by his guru and were installed at the monastery in 2012. Calling the incident a grave attack on religious faith, he urged the police to recover the idols and stolen valuables as soon as possible and take strict action against those responsible.

Police said the investigation is ongoing and all possible angles are being explored.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. While we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, News Setu makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the content. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk.