Madurai witnessed a massive outpouring of devotion and unity as thousands of Hindus gathered to protest against alleged encroachment attempts on the sacred Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple. The demonstration, marked by unwavering faith and a resolute spirit, saw participation from devotees across Tamil Nadu, including women and members of over 50 Hindu organizations including the BJP, the RSS, Hindu Munnani, Hindu Front, and Vishwa Hindu Parishad participated.
On February 4th, Hindus convened at Madurai’s Palakkanatham, raising slogans hailing Lord Murugan and defending their sacred site. The Hindu Front organized the protest, which was conducted under the supervision of 3,500 police personnel after the court granted permission for the demonstration. Despite prohibitory orders under Section 144 by tamilnadu Stalin govt on February 3rd and 4th, the protest proceeded peacefully within the allotted time.
A Stand Against Encroachment
The event comes in response to allegations that Islamist groups are laying claim to the Thiruparankundram hill, home to the revered Murugan Temple. Videos of the protest circulated widely on social media, showing participants waving saffron flags and reaffirming their commitment to preserving the sanctity of this ancient temple. Following the demonstration, heavy security remained in place to prevent further tensions.
The issue gained traction after the Tamil Nadu police recently prohibited the transportation of livestock for sacrifice to the Sikandar Badusha Dargah located atop the hill. While the authorities permitted the consumption of cooked meat, the restriction on transporting live animals sparked protests from certain Muslim groups. This dispute further escalated as claims emerged regarding the ownership of the Thiruparankundram hill.
Historical Significance of Thiruparankundram
Thiruparankundram is one of the six sacred abodes of Lord Murugan and holds immense historical and spiritual significance for Hindus. The site also houses ancient Jain caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE, with Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions, as recorded by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Despite its well-documented Hindu and Jain heritage, certain groups have attempted to rename the hill ‘Sikandar Hills’ and assert ownership over it.
Historical records, including a 1931 ruling by the Privy Council, have consistently reaffirmed the temple’s ownership of the hill. The judgment clearly established that the Thiruparankundram Temple has historically possessed and managed the hill’s unoccupied portions, treating it as temple property for generations. The council further acknowledged that the temple’s rights remained intact even during periods of external rule, as granted by the East India Company.
Ongoing Efforts to Preserve Hindu Heritage
Despite historical evidence supporting the temple’s ownership, Islamist groups continue to challenge the status quo. Recent incidents, such as unauthorized surveys conducted by political leaders and attempts to perform animal sacrifices on the hill, have heightened tensions. Hindu organizations assert that these activities aim to gradually alter the religious character of the site and erode its Hindu identity.
Local Hindus have also raised concerns about systematic encroachments under the pretext of religious festivals. Additionally, the Tamil Nadu government’s HR&CE Department has faced criticism for alleged appeasement policies that neglect the concerns of Hindu devotees.
A Call for Unity and Vigilance
The massive protest in Madurai serves as a testament to Hindu unity and determination in preserving their sacred sites. As attempts to alter the religious landscape of Thiruparankundram continue, Hindus across Tamil Nadu and beyond remain steadfast in their commitment to defending their heritage. The rally was not just a protest—it was a powerful message of resilience, faith, and collective strength, reinforcing that the sanctity of Hindu temples must be upheld for future generations.
With historical records, legal rulings, and unwavering devotion on their side, Hindus stand united in safeguarding the legacy of Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple from any form of encroachment or misrepresentation. This is a defining moment in the ongoing struggle to preserve India’s rich Hindu heritage.
