SAN JOSE, Calif. (Diya TV) — In the early morning hours of October 19, 2025, a break-in occurred at KPAS Sri Mahalakshmi Temple (Krishna Kshethram) in San Jose, leaving the local Hindu community reeling during one of its most sacred festivals.
According to temple representatives, glass doors were shattered around 5:48 AM, and an individual or group entered the premises, stealing between $10,000 to $15,000 in cash. Important documents were also reportedly taken, though the full extent of that loss is still being assessed.
Temple staff reported that drawers and cabinets inside the sanctum were opened and rifled through, including storage areas for sacred items such as clothing for deities. However, there appeared to be no theft or damage to the murtis (sacred idols) themselves.
“This is a Mahalakshmi and Krishna temple, and we have a Rama Parivar,” said one temple representative. “For all of these, it is a very important festival in our community. We wanted to celebrate this year very joyously and blissfully — but unfortunately someone did this, and we are not able to celebrate Diwali in such a manner. It is very sad that this happened at this moment.”
Photos from the scene show significant damage to the entryway and shattered glass scattered across the walkway outside. The temple’s blinds and interior cabinets also appear to have been disturbed.
While authorities have not yet determined a motive, some community members suspect the possibility of a hate crime due to the timing, occurring just days before Diwali, the Festival of Lights, one of the holiest celebrations in the Hindu calendar.
Geeta Sikand of Americans4Hindus commented, “While many across the country are celebrating Diwali with family and joy, this temple was left in distress. It’s a heartbreaking reminder of the vulnerability our places of worship can face.”
The incident remains under investigation. No arrests have been made at this time. Temple leaders are reviewing security footage and working with law enforcement to identify the perpetrator(s).
