Controversy over Udayanidhi: Stalin reached Nimishamba temple amid Sanatan remarks!

Amid the controversy over Tamil Nadu Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin’s statement calling for abolition of Sanatana Dharma, his mother Durga Stalin visited the famous Nimishamba temple near Mysore and offered special prayers in the name of her husband and son.

On Tuesday, pictures and videos of Durga Stalin worshiping in the temple went viral on social media. Many users pointed out the apparent contradiction between Udhayanidhi Stalin’s earlier comments and the family’s temple visit.

The visit has drawn attention across political circles, as Udhayanidhi Stalin’s comments on Sanatan Dharma had sparked a debate across the country and faced criticism from several Hindu organizations and political parties.

Durga Stalin along with her family members reached Nimishamba temple in Ganjam located in Srirangapatna taluka of Mandya district on Monday. He was also accompanied by JD(S) MLA GT Deve Gowda, his daughter and son-in-law.

According to sources, this yatra took place on the auspicious full moon day. Durga Stalin performed the traditional ‘Udi Seva’ of the goddess and offered silk saree, bangles, flowers, fruits and coconut to the goddess.

He also conducted special pujas in the name of MK Stalin, Udhayanidhi and other members of his family. Temple sources said he spent about 30 minutes praying in front of the goddess. These rituals were performed by the chief priest of the temple, Surya Narayan Bhatt.

The religious ceremonies included Kumkumarchan, recitation of Durga Saptashati and Maha Mangala Aarti, followed by distribution of Prasad among the devotees.

After completing the puja rituals at the main temple, Durga Stalin also offered prayers at the temples dedicated to Mauktikeshwar, Lakshminarayan Swamy, Surya Narayan Swamy, Ganapati and Anjaneya Swamy located within the temple complex. Temple staff said he spent a lot of time inside the premises and participated in religious rituals with full devotion. His visit attracted the attention of the devotees and visitors present in the temple.

It is noteworthy that Udhayanidhi Stalin had given a controversial statement and talked about destroying Sanatan Dharma. He argued that this religion promotes discrimination and social inequality. This stance of his led to sharp reactions across the country and he also had to face legal challenges.

In his first speech as the leader of the opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, he once again talked about destroying Sanatan Dharma. He said that Sanatan Dharma, which divides people, must be destroyed. He clarified that his stand is against caste discrimination and social inequality, and not against religious beliefs or worship in the temple.