ISKCON Mayapur Warns Devotees Against Fake Online Booking Scams, FIR Filed
As pilgrim footfall rises ahead of major festivals, the authorities of ISKCON Mayapur have issued a strong public warning against a growing online accommodation scam that has left devotees and tourists financially and emotionally distressed. The temple administration has confirmed that an FIR has been lodged and law enforcement agencies, including cybercrime units, have begun investigations into the fraudulent activities.
Mayapur, located in West Bengal’s Nadia district, is the global headquarters of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness and attracts lakhs of visitors every year, especially during religious festivals. The surge in demand for accommodation during peak periods has made pilgrims vulnerable to online fraud, prompting the temple authorities to step in with a public advisory.
Fake Websites Targeting Devotees and Tourists
According to ISKCON officials, fraudsters have created multiple fake websites and social media-based booking channels that falsely claim to offer accommodation at well-known ISKCON facilities in Mayapur. These include popular guesthouses and residential complexes frequently used by pilgrims and international visitors.
The fraudulent platforms are designed to closely resemble legitimate booking websites, often using professional layouts, familiar names, and persuasive language. During festival seasons, when rooms are scarce, these fake portals lure unsuspecting visitors by advertising room availability, discounts, or special benefits.
Once full payment is made, the scammers either stop responding or shut down the website entirely, leaving visitors with no confirmed accommodation and little immediate recourse.
Families Left Stranded on Arrival
The impact of the scam has been particularly severe for families travelling long distances, including those arriving from abroad. Many visitors reach Mayapur with elderly parents and young children, believing their stay is confirmed, only to discover that no booking exists in the official system.
Temple representatives said such incidents have caused significant distress, with visitors scrambling for alternative accommodation during peak periods when options are limited and prices are high. In several cases, the entire amount paid in advance was lost, adding financial strain to what was meant to be a spiritual journey.
Officials described the situation as deeply troubling, noting that the misuse of the temple’s name and facilities amounts to an exploitation of faith and trust.
Only One Authorised Booking Portal
To prevent further incidents, ISKCON Mayapur has reiterated that there is only one official and authorised website for booking accommodation at its facilities. Any booking made through other websites, agents, WhatsApp numbers, phone calls, or intermediaries is considered unauthorised and unsafe.
The authorities have clearly stated that they do not operate through messaging apps or informal agents for room bookings. They have urged devotees and tourists to verify website URLs carefully before making any payment and to be cautious of urgency claims or unusually attractive discounts.
Temple officials stressed that even well-designed websites can be fraudulent, and visitors should not rely solely on appearance or online reviews when booking accommodation.
FIR Filed, Investigation Underway
Confirming legal action, ISKCON representatives said an FIR has been registered, and the matter has been taken up by police and cybercrime agencies with priority. Officials said they are cooperating fully with investigators to identify those behind the scam and shut down fake platforms operating in the temple’s name.
A senior police officer involved in the case said the complaint is being examined seriously, given the scale of the fraud and the number of victims, including foreign nationals. Cyber experts are reportedly tracking digital footprints linked to the fake websites and payment channels.
Authorities acknowledged that online scams involving religious institutions have increased in recent years, especially during peak travel and festival seasons.
Public Awareness Seen as Key Protection
While legal proceedings are underway, ISKCON has emphasised that public awareness remains the most effective immediate safeguard. The temple administration has appealed to devotees, tour operators, and travel groups to widely share the warning so that others do not fall victim to similar frauds.
Visitors have been advised to avoid:
- Booking through unofficial websites or social media links
- Responding to unsolicited calls or messages offering rooms
- Making payments without verifying the official booking portal
- Trusting claims of last-minute availability or heavy discounts
Temple officials said they are also reviewing internal communication measures to ensure clear and accessible information for pilgrims planning their visit.
A Broader Challenge for Religious Tourism
The incident highlights a broader challenge facing religious and heritage destinations across India, where high demand and limited accommodation create opportunities for cyber fraud. Experts say stronger coordination between institutions, local authorities, and online platforms is needed to curb such scams effectively.
At the same time, travellers are being urged to adopt basic digital safety practices, particularly when planning trips during peak seasons.
Looking Ahead
As ISKCON Mayapur continues to receive large numbers of devotees from India and abroad, temple authorities say protecting visitors’ trust remains a priority. While investigations into the current scam are ongoing, officials hope that increased vigilance and timely information sharing will prevent further incidents.
Devotees planning a visit are advised to rely only on official channels and remain cautious, ensuring that their spiritual journey is not overshadowed by avoidable financial loss or distress.
