In Focus by The Hindu Thiruparankundaram Murugan Temple Karthigai Deepam Row: What is behind the dispute?
Jan 6, 2026
S. Vanchi Nathan, a seasoned advocate at the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court, dives deep into the ongoing turmoil surrounding the Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple's Karthigai Deepam lighting. He unravels the historical dispute over the traditional site, sharing insights on key legal rulings and their implications. Vanchi discusses the risks of political polarization, highlighting potential motives behind the controversy. With references to archaeological evidence and past judgments, he critiques recent court orders and emphasizes the need for civil trials over writ proceedings.
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Tradition Versus Political Agenda
- The dispute at Thiruparankundram reflects a conflict between long-standing temple tradition and Sangh Parivar political agenda.
- S. Vanchi Nathan argues the controversy was artificially created for political gain, not from local demand.
1923 Judgment Defined Ownership
- A 1923 Madurai subcourt judgment, later affirmed by the Privy Council, established divided ownership of the hillock between the temple and the Dargah.
- The judgment specifically allocated the Dargah the top of the hill and left the remaining area to the temple, settling title disputes historically.
Court Rulings Support Temple Authority
- Multiple high-court rulings (1996, 2014) consistently held Uchchi Pillayar near the sanctum as the traditional site to light the Karthigai Deepam.
- Courts also recognized the temple's authority to decide the place, subject to statutory permissions and a 15-meter buffer from the Dargah.
