22 April,2009 08:33 AM IST | | Chetan R
Politicians on campaign trail avoid the Virupaksha temple, Hampi, fearing bad luck; former PM Rajiv Gandhi visited the temple before he was assassinated
Bangalore: Politicians who campaign in the Bellary district make it a point not to visit the Virupaksha temple, Hampi. The reason behind this strange practice is that the leaders fear a visit to the temple may bring them bad luck!
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Temple travails: The east gate of the temple is meant only for the royal family. However, VIPs, including politicians, have been using this gate, and thus, 'inviting bad luck' |
"Politicians avoid visiting the temple fearing bad luck," said Shiv Bhatt, Pracharak at Virupaksha temple, Hampi.
"They fear they would lose power if they visit and pay obeisance to Virupaksha idol."
It's believed that leaders would lose power if they see the Virupaksha idol in the temple.
The belief has become stronger among local bureaucrats and politicians after former CM S Bangarappa lost power after his visit to the temple in 1992.
Former PM Rajiv Gandhi had also visited the place before he was assassinated.
"Incidents involving Rajiv Gandhi and Bangarappa have made the belief more stronger," added Bhatt. "Hence all politicians who are in the district make sure they don't visit the temple and offer pooja."
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Jinx in the east
Devotees are required to pay obeisance to the ancient idol of lord Shiva from the north direction. The East direction is preserved only for the royal family.
However, VIPs including politiciansu00a0 enter the temple from the east. This is said to bring them bad luck.
