Thiruparankundram Row: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has found himself embroiled into the controversy over a lamp-lighting ritual at the Arulmigu Subramaniya Swamy Temple in Thiruparankundram, in Tamil Nadu’s Madurai district, by saying that the issue can be resolved locally.
Bhagwat said the issue can be amicably resolved through the strength and awakening of Hindus in Tamil Nadu without any need for national escalation.
The RSS Chief further added that the matter is currently sub judice before the Supreme Court and it must conclude “favourably for Hindus.”
What is the Thiruparankundram Row?
The Thiruparankundram Row erupted during the occasion of Karthigai Deepam when a group of right-wing affiliated Hindu devotees decided to lit a lamp at a stone pillar, atop the temple hillock, adjacent to the Sikandar Badushah Shaheed Dargah.
The Madras High Court intervened and directed Tamil Nadu authorities to allow the ritual at the hilltop site, citing the rights of devotees and historical precedence. However, the ruling DMK government made an appeal to the Supreme Court while arguing that the directive disrupts a long-standing practice of lighting the lamp at the nearby Deepa Mandapam. This resulted in clashes between right-wing activists and police.
RSS Chief’s Response
RSS Chief said any escalation if required would be done if it is really required but he does not think it is required as the matter is now sub judice. He added the awakening of Hindus in Tamil Nadu is enough to bring about the desired result.
The entry of RSS in Tamil Nadu politics has become a flashpoint in the state. Local Hindutva groups such as Hindu Munnani and the Indu Makkal Katchi have rallied behind claims of the temple, viewing the stance of the DMK government as an infringement on age-old rituals.
The remarks of Bhagwat resonated with an audience of more than 5,000 swayamsevaks, all of whom welcomed his comments with zeal.
