The Shani Shingnapur temple in Maharashtra has only been open to men for centuries. After protests led by women’s activists, the Mumbai high court finally passed a ruling last month that allow women into the shrine. However, Hindu religious leader Shankaracharya Swaroopanand isn’t too happy about the decision.
“The women are worshiping Shani in the temple. By doing so, Shani’s eyes would fall on women and this would result in increase of rape incidents,” said the shankaracharya.
“Shani emits radiation which can harm them and cause deformity in a foetus if a pregnant woman enters the temple,” he added.
Meanwhile, the temple authorities have decided to adhere to the high court’s ruling and said that anybody who prevents women from entering the temple will be sentenced to prison for six months.
