A significant controversy has emerged in Gudivada town, Krishna district, following the disappearance of a diamond-studded gold crown valued at ₹70 lakh. The crown was donated to Lord Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy by an elderly devotee, and its absence has sparked outrage among worshippers, prompting the endowments department to launch a formal investigation.
Details of the Donation
The crown, crafted from 461 grams of gold and adorned with diamonds, was presented to the deity in January 2025 by 81-year-old Maturi Subbarao at the Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy temple located within the Arya Vyshya Kalyana Mandapam in Gudivada. When Subbarao visited the temple in April 2025, he was astonished to find the crown not adorning the idol.
Initial Explanations and Growing Suspicion
Upon questioning temple committee members, Subbarao was reportedly informed that the crown was stored in a bank locker for safekeeping. Trusting this explanation, he returned home. However, during a subsequent visit, he requested that the deity be adorned with the crown at least once, expressing a desire to witness it in his lifetime. To his shock, temple representatives allegedly claimed the crown had been moved to a different locker due to renovation work at the Kalyana Mandapam. Suspicious, Subbarao began his own inquiries and reportedly found no clear record of the crown's whereabouts.
Lack of Documentation and Alleged Pledging
Adding to the controversy, Subbarao stated that no official receipt was issued when he donated the crown. He alleged that authorities told him the temple does not fall under the endowments department, suggesting he would need to pursue legal action. Eventually, Subbarao learned that the crown had allegedly been pledged to raise funds for the Kalyana Mandapam's modernisation. This revelation quickly stirred concern among devotees and local residents.
Official Inquiry and Obstruction
Assistant Commissioner of the Endowments Department, Lalitha, visited the temple and initiated an inquiry. She collected details from the priest and requested keys and records from the temple trust's office, as well as information from Subbarao's family regarding the donation. However, when officials attempted to question temple trust board members, many reportedly informed them over the phone that they were unavailable, despite prior notice. Sources indicate that an inquiry report is expected soon.
Pawnbroker Absconds
A pawnbroker allegedly involved in the transaction is said to be absconding since the matter became public. According to reports, he has communicated to the temple trust board members through intermediaries that he would return only if the pledged amount is transferred to his account.
Demand for Action and Transparency
Officials are examining the legal and administrative aspects of the case, while devotees are demanding strict action and greater transparency in the management of temple valuables and donations.
