MUMBAI, INDIA, May 9, 2025 (freepressjournal.in) The Siddhivinayak temple in Prabhadevi has announced a ban on coconuts and prasad inside the temple premises from Sunday. Mumbai’s most visited Hindu shrine, dedicated to Lord Ganesh, said that the step was taken as a safety precaution because coconuts can be used to conceal explosives. Sada Sarvankar, chairman of the temple trust and former MLA, told FPJ that the decision was taken after an advisory from the police and the Maharashtra government. “Coconuts are a nightmare as far as security is concerned. It is time-consuming to check every coconut. Sweets carry the risk of a poison attack on pilgrims,” said Sarvankar, who added that the vendors outside the temples have been asked to stop buying fresh stock. The vendors have been given two days to finish off existing stocks. Sarvankar said it has not been decided how long the ban will be in force. He said there was no specific terror threat, but the security measures have been introduced as a precaution. During the ban period, devotees can carry small bundles of dhruva grass and flowers as offerings to Lord Ganesha. Heavy garlands have also been banned. A notice about the ban is expected to be issued to pilgrims today.
http://freepressjournal.in/mumbai/siddhivinayak-temple-bans-coconuts-and-prasad-as-precaution-against-possible-terror-threats

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