Kallazhagar temple
The Madras High Court has intervened to put a stop to the ongoing illegal construction of the compound wall at the heritage-fortified Kallazhagar Temple near Madurai. Responding to an urgent hearing, the court directed the Tamil Nadu government to produce videography of the construction site, including the entire length of the wall and ongoing construction. The court further mandated the numbering of each granite stone embedded in the fort wall before allowing any further work. Additionally, it instructed the authorities to safeguard every ancient brick in the fort wall for reuse “in-situ.”
A recent report highlighted the unauthorised construction of a compound wall at the Kallazhagar Temple, where the older structure was allegedly demolished. Temple activist TR Ramesh brought attention to the matter, accusing the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment (HR and CE) department of the Tamil Nadu government of initiating the demolition under the pretext of renovation.
Ramesh, through social media, expressed concerns over the actions of the authorities, claiming that the temple, situated in the forest area, boasts a history spanning over 15 centuries. He criticised the alleged misuse of temple funds for unnecessary and unlawful civil works, accusing corrupt officials and politicians of causing permanent damage to the antiquity and heritage values of significant temples. Drawing a parallel, he questioned the difference between those demolishing temples today and historical figures like Aurangzeb and Hyder Ali, notorious for temple destruction.
Upon the urgent hearing, the Madras High Court acknowledged the seriousness of the matter and intervened to halt the ongoing construction. The court’s directives, including videography of the site and numbering of granite stones, aim to ensure transparency and accountability in the preservation of the heritage-fortified wall.
Temple activist TR Ramesh took to social media to express his shock and concern after witnessing the ongoing demolition at the Sri Kallazhagar temple in Azhagarkoil. Ramesh’s inspection revealed the presence of bulldozers and earthmovers, indicating further destruction of the ancient structure. Alarmed by the situation, Ramesh urgently brought the matter before the Hon’ble Division Bench of the Madras High Court, known for safeguarding the antiquity and heritage of ancient temples.
The Madras High Court, upon hearing Ramesh’s urgent plea, swiftly intervened to address the matter. Their Lordships directed the production of videography showcasing the ongoing demolitions and construction activities in the temple premises. Additionally, the court instructed the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment (HR and CE) Department to number each granite stone embedded in the Fort Wall and safeguard every ancient brick for restoration purposes. These directives aim to prevent further damage to the ancient temple and ensure the preservation of its heritage.
Ramesh highlighted the violation of approval granted by the State Level Expert Committee for the demolition and construction works at the temple. He revealed that the approval was given without proper inspection by the committee members, and several conservation experts did not attend the meeting where approval was granted. This revelation underscores the need for stringent oversight and adherence to preservation protocols in heritage conservation efforts.
Following Ramesh’s submissions, the High Court assured that no further demolition would take place at the temple. The court emphasised the importance of careful dismantling at minor areas required for restoration. Ramesh pledged to file a comprehensive petition addressing the preservation and restoration of the ancient temple, ensuring its protection for future generations.
The demolition of the temple fort has drawn condemnation from various quarters, including the BJP’s religious wing. Vaishnavite saints, known as Alwars, have sung songs praising the deity of the Sri Kallazhagar temple, highlighting its cultural and religious significance. The temple, situated 12 km from Madurai city, is revered by devotees and holds stone inscriptions detailing its history and importance. Notable among its celebrations is the Chithirai Thiruvizha, commemorating the crossing of the Vaigai River by Azhagar during Meenakshi’s marriage.
Legend has it that the temple deity, Bhagwan Sundararajar known as Kallazhakar, redeemed Sage Suthapas from a curse at Azhakar Hill. The temple’s architectural marvels, including its temple car and chapparam, reflect the patronage of King Thirumalai Naicker. At the hill’s base lies the shrine of Karuppanna Swamy, the deity’s sentry, adding to the temple’s cultural and historical significance.
The intervention of the Madras High Court has temporarily halted the demolition of the ancient Temple Fort in Azhagarkoil, marking a crucial step in preserving its heritage. With ongoing efforts to document and safeguard the temple’s ancient structures, stakeholders remain committed to ensuring its protection and restoration for future generations to cherish and appreciate.
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