Bajrang Sena, a right-wing outfit, has sought for a ban on the sale of Kamasutra books on the Khajuraho temple premises, which is also a Unesco world heritage.
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Members of Bajrang Sena approached Chhatarpur police on Tuesday (June 13) and alleged that Kamasutra books and obscene figurines were being sold inside the premises of the Western Group of Temples, the most famous of the Khajuraho temples.
The temple not only displays the Indo-Aryan medieval architecture in its best form but is also world famous for its bold erotic sculptures and carvings on the walls of the temple. These erotic sculptures constitute about 10 percent of the total art displayed at these monuments which register a footfall of thousands of foreign tourists every year.
However, the Bajrang Sena activists under the leadership of its president of the Khajuraho unit, Jyoti Agarwal, have alleged that the sale of Kamasutra books and erotic figurines inside a religious place was against India's culture and tradition.
"Such things are readily available inside the temple premises under the very nose of (Archaeological Survey of India) ASI and tourism department officials. Such things affect the image of Indian culture and traditions in the eyes of the foreigners," said Agarwal.
They have submitted a memorandum of their demands to the sub-divisional officer of police, Khajuraho, Israr Mansouri seeking a ban on the sale of the mementos and books inside temple premises, especially at the tourist canteen.
According to the Hindustan Times, Mansouri has said that they will consult the ASI before taking any actions.
Meanwhile, when Agarwal was asked the reason for wanting the ban of Kamasutra books in the very land of Kamasutra, she said that there was no need to advertise the erotic art. She clarified that she did not oppose the art which already exists in the monument and said, "Whatever has been depicted can't be allowed to happen here now."
"What sort of moral values are we passing on to our younger generation? These temples have religious significance. There is a Shiva temple here. How can you allow Kamasutra to be sold in the sacred premises?" added Agarwal.
