Ramesh Mantri (70) was riding a bicycle in Dharampeth area when three people in a car stopped near him and asked for a temple or ashram where the "aghori baba" travelling with them can stay, the official said.

"The baba soon entrapped Mantri with his spiritual talk and sought Rs 10 as well as something in gold to perform a puja for him. After Mantri handed over his gold ring and chain cumulatively worth Rs 4.50 lakh, the accused fled in the car," he said.