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Devotees banned from offering Tulasi to Guruvayurappan by temple management

  • Ban imposed due to chemical content in Tulasi

  • Board chairman is a leader of the CPI(M)

Thrissur (Kerala) – The management board of the renowned Guruvayur Temple has instructed devotees not to offer Tulasi leaves to the Deity. The board claims that Tulasi brought from outside is unsuitable for rituals and often contains high levels of chemicals, making it inappropriate for offering. Instead, devotees are advised to bring lotus flowers for worship. This decision has sparked controversy, with devotees expressing dissatisfaction and accusing the board of infringing on their religious rights. The board is chaired by V K Vijayan, a leader from the Communist Party of India (Marxist).

1. The temple board recently issued an advisory against bringing Tulasi from outside for rituals. Historically, certain families have been supplying flowers and garlands for worship at the Guruvayur Temple for generations.

2. According to the board, Tulasi brought from external sources is not used for rituals or making garlands. Instead, it is handed over to a private organisation that uses it to produce various products. The board asserts that external Tulasi often has high pesticide content, and devotees should refrain from bringing it.

3. Some temple staff have reported to the media that handling Tulasi from external sources causes skin irritation and allergic reactions.

4. M Bijesh, Secretary of the Area Protection Committee, argued that if the board can accept items like vehicles and gold ornaments, which are not used for rituals, they should not stop devotees from offering sacred items to the Deity. He suggested finding constructive uses for Tulasi instead of banning it.

5. In May 2024, temples in Kerala banned Oleander flowers following the death of a 24-year-old nurse. Two major temple boards subsequently prohibited bringing these flowers into temple premises.

6. The Guruvayur Temple, believed to have been built in the 14th century, houses a four-armed idol of Lord Vishnu, known as Guruvayurappan.

Editorial Perspectives

  • Why is the board not trying to provide chemical free Tulasi ? It would be inappropriate to make such an opposition in the name of chemical content. Hindus should oppose this in a legal manner.
  • When will Hindus realise that making atheist communist leaders the heads of temple management is harmful for their faith and a result of Government control over their temples ?

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