CHENNAI: The DMK-led Tamil Nadu government’s decision to prohibit the lighting of lamps on the steps of the Kapaleeswar Temple tank in Chennai has ignited widespread criticism and protests. The ban, implemented during the Thirukarthigai festival, has been justified on environmental grounds, citing harm to aquatic life and water pollution. However, devotees and Hindu organisations have condemned the move, viewing it as an encroachment on centuries-old religious practices and a targeted attack on Hindu traditions.
Tradition vs. Environment
The lighting of earthen lamps during Thirukarthigai is a cherished tradition in Tamil Nadu, akin to the celebration of Diwali in northern India. Devotees believe the practice purifies the air and wards off diseases during the pre-winter season. However, the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment (HR&CE) department argues that the custom harms aquatic life. According to the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Department’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for temple tanks, oil from the lamps contaminates the water, clogs fish gills, and causes respiratory distress, leading to mass fish deaths. The department has also advised against bathing in temple tanks and offering food to fish, citing pollution concerns.
The Kapaleeswarar temple at Mylapore has banned lighting lamps on steps of its 'thirukulam' (tank) to prevent pollution, based on direction from the office of the HR & CE commissioner. #NEWS pic.twitter.com/LUilmI8Am5
— Chennai Live Digital 104.8 (@chennailive1048) December 9, 2024
Devotees’ Outrage
The ban has sparked protests from devotees and Hindu leaders, who accuse the government of selectively targeting Hindu rituals. Hindu Munnani leaders such as A.T. Elangovan and Brahmanayagam argue that the lighting of lamps does not cause significant pollution. They claim the HR&CE’s actions discourage temple visits by imposing fees and restricting traditional practices, making worship inaccessible to ordinary devotees. Critics also highlight perceived double standards, pointing to the lack of action against environmental issues stemming from practices in other religions, such as animal sacrifices during Muslim festivals.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Temple tanks, many built centuries ago by Hindu kings, were originally designed to collect rainwater, recharge aquifers, and provide water for local communities. Devotees argue that activities like bathing in tanks are integral to Hindu worship and cannot be banned outright. Activists also criticised the government for failing to address other sources of pollution, such as plastic waste and sewage inflow, which they say are more detrimental to the tanks’ ecosystems.
Restrictions at Arunachala Hills
Adding to the controversy, Tamil Nadu HR&CE Minister P.K. Sekarbabu announced on December 11 that devotees would not be allowed to climb the Arunachala Hills during the Mahadeepam festival, citing safety concerns after recent landslides. While the decision followed expert recommendations, critics accuse the HR&CE of inconsistency, alleging that it often ignores court orders regarding temple upkeep and encroachments but acts swiftly to curtail devotee activities.
Arrests at Tiruparankundram
The tensions escalated further with the arrest of several
, who attempted to light lamps atop the Tiruparankundram hill, a site sacred to multiple religious communities. Despite obtaining court permission, devotees carrying milk pots and sprouted grains were blocked by police. The hill, known as Skanda Malai to Hindus and Sikandar Malai to Muslims, has been a flashpoint of religious disputes, with Muslims objecting to lamp lighting near what they claim is the burial site of a saint named Sikandar.
Controversy Over Muslim Entry into Srirangam Temple
Another issue fueling tensions is the entry of a Muslim individual, Zakir Hussain, into the Shri Ranganatha Swamy Temple in Srirangam. Hussain, a Bharatanatyam dancer, reportedly donated a ruby- and diamond-studded crown worth Rs 52 lakh to the deity. His entry into the temple’s sanctum, allegedly facilitated by over 100 police officers, has been criticized by temple activists. Rangarajan Narasiman, a temple activist, filed a complaint alleging that Hussain’s background was not verified and that his entry violated the Tamil Nadu Temple Entry Authorization Act, which restricts non-Hindus from entering certain temple areas.
Hussain’s refusal to sign a registry declaring himself a Hindu has further fueled the controversy. Critics question the HR&CE’s role in allowing such an incident and allege bias against Hindu devotees while accommodating individuals with political affiliations.
Growing Tensions
These incidents highlight growing dissatisfaction among Hindu devotees and activists with the HR&CE department and the Tamil Nadu government. Many view recent measures as part of a broader pattern of encroachments on Hindu religious practices under the guise of environmental and safety concerns. Critics demand consistent enforcement of rules across all religions and greater accountability in the management of temple affairs.
