NE NEWS SERVICE
CHENNAI, MAY 5
Nearly four decades ago former chief minister and DMK leader Dr M Karunanidhi had banned the hand-rickshaws pulled by men. Despite this, some religious heads are being carried by men in palanquin in violation of human rights.
To put an end to this inhuman practice, the Mayiladuthurai Collectorate has refused permission for the tradition of devotees carrying the seer of the Dharmapuram Adheenam, a saivite monastic institution, in a palanquin called the ‘Pattina Pravesam’.
Authorities denied permission stating the Dravidar Kazhagam (DK) cadres warned of mass protest against the practice of men carrying a man, calling it regressive. The order also called the practice a “violation of human rights.”
Dharmapuram Adheenam representatives had made a request with the district administration to allow the centuries-old practice, stating that devotees carried the seer out of devotion and that there was no compulsion involved.
The seer of Madurai Adheenam, who took offence at the district Collectorate’s order, stated that he was hurt by the order that banned a 500-year-old practice which was carried out religiously.
“This tradition was not even banned by the British. I studied and grew up there. I will go there directly and we’ll conduct it. It should not be stopped, you should not get involved in tradition. Until now, it has not stopped. Why is the palanquin tradition being banned now?” stated Gnanasambandha Desigar, seer of Madurai Adheenam.
The Madurai Adheenam is the oldest Saivite institution in South India. It is located near the Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, one of the most important Shiva Shakti shrines.
“He is the Guru. For example, the Tamil Nadu CM is respected for his seat. Just like how Christians have a Pope and the Vatican, Dharmapuram Adheenam prevails for us”, he stated.
Gnanasambanda Desigar assured that he would ensure that ‘Pattina Pravesam’ happened, even if he had to give his life for it. He even urged CM Stalin to head the event and conduct it.
