Controversial Diwali Gift: Maharashtra Temple Employees Given Chicken Masala Despite Religious Vegetarian Practices

Temple workers in Maharashtra were given chicken masala packets as Diwali gifts, causing significant controversy.

As Diwali approaches, employees nationwide are receiving various festive presents ranging from traditional sweets and blankets to practical items like trolleys. Some generous corporations have even presented their staff with extravagant gifts including luxury vehicles, motorcycles, jewelry, and residential properties.

However, a particularly controversial gift distribution has sparked outrage in Maharashtra. Staff members employed at the sacred Vitthal temple in Pandharpur were shocked to receive chicken masala packets as their Diwali gifts.

These inappropriate presents were distributed by BVG company, which supplies outsourced personnel including security guards and other workers to the temple. The company's decision to provide non-vegetarian cooking ingredients has generated widespread condemnation.

The Vitthal temple in Pandharpur holds immense religious significance for countless devotees, particularly followers of the Warkaris sect, who strongly advocate vegetarianism as part of their spiritual practice.

Diwali represents India's most significant annual festival. The five-day celebration involves family gatherings, spectacular fireworks displays, elaborate feasts, and religious ceremonies.

The festival's name "Diwali" derives from "Deepavali," meaning "a row of lights." During this auspicious time, people illuminate their homes with traditional clay oil lamps, symbolizing light's triumph over darkness and knowledge overcoming ignorance.

The festival dates follow the Hindu lunar calendar, typically occurring in late October or early November.

This year, Diwali falls on October 20.