News Tamil Nadu

BJP TN welcomes TN Govt’s move to appoint woman priests, says practice has been already existent

June 14, 2021
The Commune

The BJP Tamil Nadu unit officially welcomed the Tamil Nadu government’s initiative to appoint priests from all castes including woman priests in temples across Tamil Nadu adding that the women have been priests in temples since ancient times.

“Recently, the government had said that it would consider appointment of women as priests. Right from the ancient days, women also had got expertise in Agama shastras. Women are already doing Puja in Melmaruvathur Adhiparasakthi Temple. We can see the influence of Paancharatra Agama mode of worship in Andal’s pasurams. So, already people of all castes and both men and women have been priests in Tamil Nadu.”, BJP Tamil Nadu President Dr. L. Murugan said in the press release.

He also pointed out the fact where people from different castes are priests at different temples like Sembadavars in Melmalayanur Angala Parameswari Temple, Kuyavars in Paingaadu Ayyanaar Temple, Devars in Sankarankoil Udayanayaki Temple, etc.

“Scheduled Caste people alone are priests in Bodyguard Muneeswarar Temple, Idamayan Temple.”, the press release said.

However, he also added a word of caution saying that while the decision of Tamil Nadu government is welcome only those who have proper knowledge and understanding of the respective Agama shastra of the temple be appointed.

The BJP’s position has surprised both the party’s supporters and critics. While some have welcomed the party’s position saying that it would help break the perception about the party, others have pointed out that the party is playing into DMK’s hands and that the Tamil Nadu government forcing such a move on all temples is unwarranted as it interferes with the religious character of the temple.

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