Ayodhya, June 26: Renowned sculptor Arun Yogiraj, who crafted the idol of Ram Lalla for the grand temple in Ayodhya, expressed shock over recent allegations of donation misappropriation by temple staff. These individuals were responsible for managing donations amounting to millions in cash and jewelry from devotees worldwide.
Despite the troubling news, Yogiraj stood firmly in support of the temple trust officials, particularly its General Secretary Champat Rai, whom he described as a “symbol of simplicity and integrity.”
In an interview, Yogiraj expressed his sorrow regarding the incidents linked to the misappropriation of donations at the Ram Temple. He stated, “As a devotee of Lord Ram, it deeply saddens me, as devotees contribute their hard-earned money to the temple with faith, love, and devotion, believing they are offering to Ram Lalla.”
He noted that the theft is shocking for millions of Lord Ram’s followers and may lead them to reconsider their trust in the temple’s trustees.
Yogiraj called for strict action against those responsible for the theft and the tarnishing of the temple’s reputation, while still praising the members of the temple trust, especially Champat Rai.
“I have been associated with the trust for about eight to nine months. I know Champat Rai and other members. They embody simplicity, hard work, and dedication,” he remarked.
He added that Rai has maintained the highest standards of transparency and accountability in his operations, making it hard to believe the recent events.
Yogiraj and his team dedicated seven to eight months in Ayodhya, tirelessly working on the idol of Ram Lalla, which reflects a perfect balance of divinity and childlike innocence.
He expressed disbelief that such irregularities could occur under the trust’s supervision but acknowledged the trust’s proactive role in initiating a Special Investigation Team (SIT) inquiry.
Yogiraj mentioned, “It was Champat Rai who contacted Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to request an investigation into the discrepancies in the offerings.” He made this statement in light of recent reports regarding resignations based on ethical grounds.
Recalling his long-standing association with the temple trust, the sculptor noted that he has always witnessed the members working with honesty and integrity, making decisions with the trust of all involved.
He expressed hope for swift and exemplary action against those guilty of donation misappropriation, stating, “With the increase in the number of devotees visiting the temple, some mischievous elements have taken advantage of the situation. However, I am confident that all individuals involved in the conspiracy to steal temple funds will be prosecuted and punished soon.”
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