A case highlighting the misuse of artificial intelligence in forging official documents has surfaced at the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, where three devotees allegedly used an AI-generated fake VIP pass to gain entry into the temple premises.

According to police, the group managed to enter the temple using a forged pass resembling an official VIP entry permit before security personnel detected discrepancies during routine verification.

Fake Pass Raised Suspicion

The incident came to light when security staff noticed that the pass mentioned "Garbhagriha Darshan" (sanctum sanctorum entry). Officials immediately became suspicious because public access to the temple's sanctum has remained prohibited for nearly two-and-a-half years.

Further verification of the QR code, barcode and other details confirmed that the pass was counterfeit. Security personnel promptly detained all three individuals and informed the Mahakal police.

Accused Used AI Tool

Mahakal Police Station in-charge Gagan Badal said the main accused has been identified as Bharat Uikey (19), a resident of Kolar Road in Bhopal. He was accompanied by two juveniles.

During questioning, the accused allegedly admitted that they had created a VIP-style entry pass using an artificial intelligence tool on Tuesday afternoon before travelling to the temple.

Police initiated preventive legal action against Bharat Uikey, while proceedings involving the two juveniles are being carried out under the provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act.

Regular Darshan Allowed After Action

After completing legal formalities, authorities permitted the three devotees to offer prayers through the temple's regular public queue instead of granting any special access.

Officials said the incident was handled without disrupting temple operations.

Security Concerns Raised

The case has triggered fresh concerns over the security and digital verification mechanisms at one of India's most visited religious sites.

Experts believe the increasing availability of AI-based image generation and editing tools has made it easier to fabricate documents that closely resemble genuine government or institutional passes. They have stressed the need for stronger digital authentication systems, real-time QR verification and enhanced security protocols at sensitive religious and public institutions.

Authorities are expected to review the temple's pass verification process to prevent similar attempts in the future.

Viral video shows staff clicking photos with saree-clad visitor despite ban on photography inside Ujjain temple premises

A young man dressed as Allu Arjun’s character from the film Pushpa — complete with saree, blouse, payal, lemon garland, and bangles — walked into the Mahakal temple here for a VIP darshan, triggering a row over security lapses. The incident, which took place on February 5, came to light after videos surfaced on social media over the weekend.

The temple management has since removed a supervisor after an internal inquiry.

Viral visuals show protocol breach

In the clips circulating on Instagram and Facebook, the man is seen moving through different parts of the temple complex. A staff member escorts him to the Ganesh Mandapam, treating him like a VIP devotee. Security personnel and temple committee employees did not stop him. Instead, they posed for photographs with him.

Photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the Mahakal temple premises. The responsibility of enforcing this ban lies with the very staff and guards who are now seen violating it.

What the video shows

The young man is dressed in a saree and blouse, with payal on his feet, a lemon garland and necklace around his neck, tops in his ears, a nose ring, and bangles on his wrists. He mimics the mannerisms of the Pushpa character in several clips.

According to sources familiar with the matter, he did not enter like an ordinary pilgrim. He was given special access, something regular devotees are not entitled to. The videos also show him filming himself inside the temple, which is not allowed for common visitors.

Social media backlash

The visuals, uploaded from an account named Ankit Astoliya on Instagram and Facebook, quickly went viral. Several other videos in the same outfit are available on that profile.

Users have criticised the temple administration for allowing such conduct. Many questioned how the man managed to enter with a full costume and accessories without being stopped at any checkpoint. Others pointed out that the staff’s willingness to take selfies with him shows a casual approach to protocol.

Official action taken

Mahakal temple administrator Pratham Kaushik confirmed that the video dates back to February 5. “After the visuals came to our notice, an inquiry was conducted. The concerned supervisor has been removed from his post,” he said.

Kaushik added that granting special permission to anyone inside the temple premises, or allowing photography and videography, goes against the established rules and decorum of the shrine.

Prior restrictions on photography

This is not the first time the Mahakal temple has faced controversy over mobile phone use. While devotees are routinely asked to deposit their phones before entering, instances of unauthorised recording have been reported earlier as well. The latest incident has once again raised questions about enforcement of existing rules.

Sources indicate that the temple trust may now review its security deployment and issue fresh guidelines to prevent such breaches in the future.