Reform or Political Agenda? Sachidananda’s Hypocrisy in Sidelining Thantris While Protecting Leftist Policies
Removing shirts to enter temples: Government should take decisions without giving in to Tantris: Swami Sachidananda
Kerala: Swami Sachidananda, President of the Sivagiri Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham Trust, has once again stirred controversy by advocating government intervention in temple customs without consulting Thantris. Speaking at the anniversary celebrations of the Aruvippuram temple’s consecration and Mahashivratri event, he urged the government to make independent decisions regarding temple dress codes, disregarding the role of Thantris.
"Sree Narayana Gurudeva did not seek permission from Thantris before performing the Shiva Pratishta at Aruvippuram. Similarly, the Temple Entry Proclamation was not carried out under their guidance. Governments must bring timely reforms. The Pinarayi Vijayan-led government appointed priests from backward communities without consulting Thantris. The Sree Narayana community must move forward in a progressive manner, leaving behind outdated customs," said Swami Sachidananda.
Further, he criticized the use of elephants and fireworks in temples, stating that even courts have repeatedly ruled against such practices. "Despite opposition from Brahmins, society no longer supports these outdated traditions. However, certain conservative elements are attempting to retain elephant processions and fireworks by seeking legal interventions," he added.
A One-Sided Reformist Stance?
While Sachidananda presents himself as a reformist, critics argue that his interventions are selective, targeting only Hindu traditions while remaining silent on similar practices in other religions. The Sabarimala Ayyappa Yuva Seva Samithi has strongly criticized his stance, questioning why he does not extend his "reformist" views to other religious matters.
Furthermore, sachidananda supporting of the Left government’s controversial decision to allow women of all ages to enter Sabarimala—against long-standing traditions—has drawn widespread condemnation. Critics argue that temple traditions, which have existed for centuries, should not be dictated by political ideologies or external forces.
Government Overreach in Temple Affairs
The broader question remains: Does the government have the right to interfere in temple traditions? Many Hindu organizations and devotees believe that such interventions set a dangerous precedent, eroding the autonomy of temples and undermining age-old customs upheld by generations. While reforms are necessary, they should emerge organically from within the religious community rather than being imposed by external entities driven by political motives.
The ongoing debate highlights the growing tension between tradition and modernity, with temple management and devotees insisting that religious customs should be preserved rather than politicized. The challenge now lies in ensuring that faith and traditions are respected while balancing them with evolving societal norms—without allowing ideological biases to dictate the discourse.
