In a significant development from Banswara district, Rajasthan, a church in a tribal-dominated village has been converted into a temple. Residents of the village voluntarily chose to renounce Christianity and return to Hinduism. Interestingly, the pastor of the church has now taken on the role of the priest at the temple. The place where prayers were once conducted will now host aarti ceremonies.
Religious Conversion in Banswara
As per reports from Aaj Tak, the incident occurred in Sodhala Dudhka village under Jhamburi Gram Panchayat. Around 40-45 families who had converted to Christianity 30 years ago have now returned to Hinduism.
The former church pastor, Gautam Garasia, has now become the priest at the Bhairav temple. Gautam revealed that he had earlier adopted Christianity under the influence of financial incentives, but has now undergone what he calls ‘ghar wapsi‘ (homecoming).
Pastor Turned Priest Shares His Experience
Gautam Garasia stated that after deciding to embrace Hinduism again, some individuals from the Christian community attempted to intimidate him with threatening calls. However, Gautam remained resolute and announced that he would take legal action against anyone trying to coerce or threaten him.
Conversion of Church to Bhairav Temple
According to Banswara Superintendent of Police Harsh Vardhan, Gautam Garasia had built a church on his private land about one and a half years ago after converting to Christianity. Following his return to Hinduism, Gautam decided to convert the church into a Bhairav temple.
Grand Procession and Consecration Ceremony
Before the idol consecration ceremony on March 9, a grand procession was organized in the village, during which people chanted slogans like ‘Jai Shri Ram‘. Following this, the walls of the former church were painted saffron, and Hindu religious symbols were drawn on the building.
During the procession, villagers carried an idol of Bhairav Baba through the streets. A large crowd participated in the puja ceremony that followed. The event was attended by Ramswaroop Maharaj, the central minister of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), along with several members of VHP and Bajrang Dal.
Police Presence Ensured Safety
To maintain peace and order during the event, a police force was deployed throughout the area, ensuring t
