Tamil Nadu: TR Ramesh accuses HR and CE of unlawful demolition of heritage wall at Kallazhagar Mandir

Renowned temple activist TR Ramesh has sounded the alarm over the alleged demolition of the heritage fortified wall of the ancient Sri Kallazhagar Temple, situated in the forested area of Azhagar Malai near Madurai. Ramesh accuses the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment (HR and CE) department of the Tamil Nadu government, present since December 13, 1951, of unlawfully undertaking the demolition under the pretext of renovation.

Taking to his social media platform, Ramesh expressed deep concern about the potential irreparable damage being inflicted on the temple’s antiquity and heritage values. The Kallazhagar Temple boasts a rich history spanning over 15 centuries and is renowned for its splendid architectural features.

In a strongly-worded statement, Ramesh criticised the alleged greed for money driving these purported renovation efforts. He drew parallels between the actions of those demolishing temples today and historical figures like Aurangzeb and Hyder Ali, infamous for their acts of desecration.

“The Bhagwan at Kallazhagar Temple draws lakhs of devotees to His abode during festivals, yet there seems to be a lack of accountability and questioning regarding the destruction of the temple and its surroundings,” remarked Ramesh, emphasising the need for vigilance in preserving the sacred site.

Renowned temple activist TR Ramesh took to Twitter to question the HR and CE department’s decision to remove the sacred ash, known as Vibuthi, from the forehead of Saint Vallalar’s statue. Vallalar, also known as Ramalinga Adigalar, was a staunch believer in Shaivism, composing numerous songs dedicated to Lord Murugan and Shiva.

The controversy deepened as Ramesh highlighted other instances of alleged interference by the HR and CE department in various temples. In a tweet, he declared his intent to post pictures of temples where Tamil Nadu government officials are reportedly functioning as Executive Officers, terming it a “fraud on the Constitution” and a denial of fundamental rights of Hindus.

Ramesh’s post also challenged the HR and CE department to provide evidence of legally valid orders appointing Executive Officers in these temples. He extended an invitation for a live debate on the subject of alleged fraud by the department.

The HR and CE department’s depiction of Vallalar without sacred ash, saffron cloth, and sacred thread (Janeu) has triggered widespread condemnation on social media. Devotees and citizens alike are expressing concern over what they perceive as an infringement on the sanctity of religious symbols and practices.

As the controversy unfolds, calls for transparency and accountability in the administration of temples are gaining momentum, with activists like TR Ramesh at the forefront of the demand for answers from the HR and CE department and the Tamil Nadu government.