Three panchaloha idols found stolen from shrine

Three 'panchaloha' idols have been stolen from an ancient temple at Vettikadu village near here, police said.

Following this, Chitra Pournami festivities have been cancelled, temple sources said.

The idols of Lord Muruga and Goddesses Valli and Daivayanai were stolen from the temple, police said, adding, the incident occurred when the temple was gearing up for the Chitra Pournami festival for which the flag hoisting ceremony was due today.

But the festival has been cancelled, temple manager Ganesan said.

Sniffer dogs have been pressed into service to trace the burglars, officials said, adding, the idols were precious.

'Panchaloha' is a term for traditional five-metal alloys of sacred significance used for making Hindu temple idols.