Malappuram: In a controversial move, temple traditions were reportedly violated at the Pulamanthol Paloor Subramanian Swami Temple in Malappuram district, Kerala, after Eid-Milad-un-Nabi celebrations were permitted to take place in the temple. This incident has sparked outrage, particularly from Hindu groups, who claim that the sanctity of the temple was compromised.
The event took place with the consent of the temple’s office bearers, allowing followers of Islam to perform an art form in front of the temple’s sanctum sanctorum. Devotees who visit the temple traditionally avoid wearing footwear and adhere to specific dress codes. However, images of the celebration reveal participants wearing shoes and non-traditional attire, causing further discontent among Hindu devotees.
Shocking and disgraceful incident from Al Kherala !!!
Celebrating Eid Milad-un-Nabi in a temple is an insult to our traditions and heritage. If tomorrow, the Waqf Board lays claim to this temple land, citing 'religious practices,' will the so-called seculars wake up? Respect for… pic.twitter.com/fuUoNGS6yW
— Pratheesh Viswanath (@pratheesh_Hind) September 17, 2024
RV Babu, state president of the Sangh-affiliated Hindu Aikyavedi, condemned the incident, stating that it had hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus. He emphasised that the temple authorities were responsible for allowing such an event that, in his view, desecrated the temple’s sanctity. Babu remarked, “Desecrating the temple’s sanctity is not the means to prove secularism. The art form presented by those who do not believe in any God other than Allah, wearing shoes in front of the sanctum sanctorum, is a challenge to the very identity of the temple.”
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Babu also drew attention to a similar incident in Nilampoor Uppada Sree Ayyappa Temple, also in Malappuram district. He reiterated that no one has the right to insult temple traditions for the sake of popularity. While Hindu organisations do not oppose welcoming Eid-Milad-un-Nabi processions outside the temple or distributing sweets, Babu questioned the justification for permitting non-Hindu believers to perform religious acts inside the temple premises.
He urged for a strong Hindu reaction to these incidents, warning that continued disregard for temple traditions could lead to greater issues. Some observers even raised concerns that the Waqf Board could eventually claim temple land under the guise of religious practices.
Reports suggest that the Pulamanthol temple is managed by a family committee, and some critics allege that the temple administration is under the influence of “pseudo-secularism,” which they argue is akin to communalism. This incident has ignited a broader debate on the balance between secularism and respect for religious traditions.
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