Lightning Strikes Temples, Houses as Heavy Rain Batters Bantwal

Mangalore Today News Network

Bantwal, May 17, 2026: Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds and lightning caused widespread damage across parts of Bantwal taluk on Saturday, affecting two temples and several houses.

Lightning struck the Sri Mahavishnu Temple at Illiyuru in Mani Nalkur village, causing damage estimated at around Rs 1 crore. The impact shattered stone slabs above the sanctum sanctorum precincts. No injuries were reported as the priest was outside the temple at the time.

In another incident, lightning hit the Sri Karingeshwara Temple at Karinja in Kavalamoodur village around 5 pm. The strike is believed to have damaged the gopuram above the sanctum sanctorum. As no one was present inside the temple, no casualties occurred. Temple management committee president Veerendra B Amin said the matter has been reported to the revenue department.

Lightning also damaged the house of Kavitha Sesappa Poojary at Madhwa Barkatte in Kavalapaduru village and another house belonging to Annu Poojary in Kadeshivalaya village. No casualties were reported in either incident.

Meanwhile, in Peraje village, a huge jackfruit tree fell on the tiled house of Lalitha at Konkanapadavu, causing partial damage.

Revenue department officials visited the affected areas and are assessing the extent of the losses.