Tamil actor Satyaraj recently spoke at a Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi event commemorating the 61st birthday of party chief, Thol. Thirumavalavan. Speaking at the event, Satyaraj spoke about Okinawa, a Japanese village where people often live past the age of 100, to wish a long life for Thirumavalavan.
He said, “Okinawa in Japan has the world’s oldest population, everyone lives at least to the age of 100 over there, mostly they are 110 and above. they understand what they like and thus do what they like and what they like they do as a charity, social work, etc, and something that celebrates equality. When compared to our country, if it means to uproot sanatana dharma, that joyous journey allows one to reach the age of 100 very easily. If you read the book Ikigai you will understand. Thiruma has made it a life mission and passion to serve the people and I wish that he outlives the people of the village in Okinawa and lives for more than 100 years. “
He continued, “They are constantly repeating “Digital India” nowadays. More than a Digital India, we need a Reformed India. An India that is equal to all. We need an India that admires the principles of Periyar, Ambedkar, Marx, and an India that admires and follows the bravery of Prabhakaran. It should not be Digital India, but Thiruma India. I am not saying this to flatter Thirumavalavan. I have never asked him for any favours nor will I ask in the future. I don’t even have to ask him to work for the people because he is already doing that. Such a wonderful leader he is. The freedom of the oppressed is the most important, it is not possible to speak of Tamil nationalism if there is no abolition of caste. People are killing each other over caste but the one who kills and the one that dies are both Tamilians. How can we bring about Tamil nationalism in such a scenario? Only if caste is abolished can we progress with Tamil nationalism and only if women are truly empowered can this happen. Only when we eradicate all the superstitions in the name of Shastra, sadangu (rituals), and sampradaya (tradition), can we truly grow into a better Tamil nationalist society.”
Critics raised questions following a viral video that emerged subsequent to Sahtyaraj’s speech. In an interview to a YouTube channel, social activist ‘Airport’ Moorthy reveals how Sathyaraj got his son married as per his caste’s traditional rituals contrary to his “Periyarist” principles.
In response, Satyaraj apparently revealed that while he personally adheres to certain principles, his family members were insistent on following rituals for the wedding. Critics noted the discrepancy between Satyaraj’s public statements and his actions in a private context, asserting that his inconsistency was evident and could be perceived as hypocritical.
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A 2018 video interview clipping of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) member and former minister for electricity and health, Arcot Veerasamy, was released during the En Mann En Makkal Padayatra.
The video, which blatantly reveals the level of corruption when it came to allocating medical seats to students in Tamil Nadu, was telecast on a large screen to the public during Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party President, K Annamalai’s yatra near Kanyakumari.
In the interview with Thanthi TV, Arcot Veerasamy who is said to be very close to former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, says, “The financial challenges faced by the DMK compelled us to seek funds from others, especially during election times when our commitment to the people is paramount. Since I was the party treasurer, former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, used to ask me to make the arrangements and this is how I did it. I used to visit MAM (Ramasamy) at his house. He was a generous individual whom I greatly respected. He has also visited me several times when I was a minister. MAM used to run a medical college and since I was the Health Minister then, we used to release a list first for the admissions. He used to ask me for a copy of that list. When asked why, he would say, if we select the candidates from this list, they will anyway take up the government college seats, those empty seats would be filled by us and thus we need a copy of that list. So I used to send him that list. And since I had grown close to him, I would ask him for funds. While an amount like 1 or 2 crores was insignificant to him, his willingness often extended to 5 crores if I persistently requested him.”
From the above interview, it becomes evident that prior to the introduction of NEET, private medical colleges in Tamil Nadu (mostly owned directly or indirectly by politicians) collected huge money as donation or for securing the seat which was donated to the DMK.
In the video interview, it is revealed that Arcot Veerasamy became the treasurer of the DMK following the death of Sadiq Batcha.
Annamalai after telecasting this clipping alleged that this was the drama that was being showcased before NEET came into place, a time when medical college seats were sold for a hefty price.
On the occasion of our 77th Independence Day, Isha Foundation launched the “Yoga for Stress Management and Holistic Wellness” program in collaboration with Southern Command of Indian Army. Through this collaboration, free week-long Classical Hatha Yoga programs will be conducted by Isha Hatha Yoga teachers for more than 10,000 serving soldiers in 23 locations in 9 states falling under the jurisdiction of the command. The collaboration aims to bring holistic wellness to our soldiers who otherwise undergo a lot of stress under testing conditions.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, Sadhguru, in a video message said, “As soldiers you have done enough for your physical fitness and wellbeing, but to bring a different level of mental and energetic capability within you, yoga and the technologies for inner wellbeing can make a phenomenal difference. We’ve already taught this yogic processes for thousands of soldiers and other forces and also we have trained over 300 trainers within the forces, and now we want to offer this to Southern Command, which is an important part.”
Isha Foundation, in partnership with the Indian Army, is providing classical Hatha Yoga practices to over 10,000 soldiers across 23 locations in 9 states in 6-8 months. The initiative was launched on India's 77th Independence Day in the presence of Lt Gen Ajai Kumar Singh,… pic.twitter.com/ti1SyM0oiG
Later, tweeting about the initiative, Sadhguru, Founder- Isha Foundation, said, “In willingly committing their lives to protect & defend the Nation, our men & women in uniform are offering the highest commitment & the greatest service to the Nation. Most important to enable them to access the magnificent tools that this Culture offers to cultivate balance, stability & inner wellbeing. A Privilege to offer Isha Classical Hatha Yoga to the Southern Command, Indian Army- this will bring a different level of mental and energetic capability within you & will make a phenomenal difference both in terms of how you perform & how you experience your life. Best Wishes & Blessings.”
In willingly committing their lives to protect & defend the Nation, our men & women in uniform are offering the highest commitment & the greatest service to the Nation. Most important to enable them to access the magnificent tools that this Culture offers to cultivate balance,… https://t.co/BaBbEzlxn8
Lt Gen Ajai Kumar Singh, AVSM, YSM, SM, VSM, GOC-in-C, Southern Command inaugurated the ceremony and highlighted the importance of mental wellness in the Indian Army and how yoga can be used to ameliorate mental health issues prevalent in the society in general and Indian Army in particulars.
“With rising stress, suicides and marital discords, it’s very important that we connect back with our cultural and spiritual heritage. I am grateful to Sadhguru for helping us connect with our culture,” said Lt Gen Ajai Kumar Singh.
GOC-in-C spoke to the audience about the fire sheaths of existence as per the Panchkosha theory. The efforts of the Isha Foundation towards joining the cause of mental wellness of Indian Army pers were noted with gratefulness. The Army Commander enumerated the programs which have been and are in the pipeline with Isha Foundation as the yoga partner to Southern Command.
Isha Hatha Yoga teachers, who have undergone an intensive 21-week teacher training program at the Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, will teach classical Hatha Yoga practices such as Surya Kriya and Angamardana, to the soldiers. The soldiers will also learn Nadi Shuddhi, a practice that cleanses the nadis – the pathways through which pranic energy flows – bringing balance and psychological well-being; and Isha Kriya, a 12 minute meditation designed to cope with hectic pace of modern life.
The first set of batches with thousands of army participants began on Independence Day in cities including – Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Gwalior, Jhansi, Secunderabad, Chennai and Bengaluru, among others.
The continuity in learning and practice of Holistic Wellness will be ensured further and to this end, an intensive ‘Train the Trainers’ residential program is also being conducted at Isha Yoga Center, Coimbatore from 01 to 14 Sep 2023, where instructors selected from units in Southern Command will be trained as certified Trainers to conduct Yoga Programs in their unit for times to come.
Mr. Raja Upadhya, Senior Vice President of HDFC Bank represented HDFC Bank Parivartan, which has partnered with Isha in enabling the well-being of the soldiers.
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A Gram Sabha meeting held on Aug 16th in the village of Mukkananguruchy panchayat, as part of the 77th Independence Day celebrations, turned into a challenging encounter for Karur Congress MP Jothimani. Residents of the village confronted the MP with pointed questions about her absence in the constituency since the elections.
The incident took place during the Gram Sabha meeting where Jothimani was present as a guest. The villagers surrounded her and voiced their frustrations, questioning her apparent lack of presence in the constituency outside of election periods. They alleged that Jothimani prioritize the electorate solely during campaign seasons and then fade away afterward.
The people who surrounded Jothimani asked, “Why did you come to our village now? You will remember us only during elections? You have not visited us since the last elections.”
People further added, ” You have not responded to our phone calls; not even once. How can we let you know about our grievances? It is your duty to listen to our grievances.”
Enraged Jothimani said, “There are 6600 hamlets under Karur Parliamentary Constituency. In that, I have been going to every town and meeting the people and thanking them, receiving petitions, and listening to their grievances. You are accusing me only to provoke me and disrupt this meeting.”
Despite her efforts to clarify, the villagers continued to express their discontent, reflecting growing frustration with the perceived lack of responsiveness from their elected representatives.
This video showing the confrontation between Congress MP Jothimani and the villagers has been going viral on social media.
In this situation, Karur MP Jothimani said that those who questioned her during the Gram Sabha meeting were not villagers but the BJP supporters who were paid in lakhs to disrupt the meeting. She also accused that the news channels like Thanthi TV, Polimer TV, and Dinamalar were acting like the IT wing of the Tamil Nadu BJP which started a vile political attack against her.
In this situation, Karur MP Jothimani alleged that the individuals who confronted her during the Gram Sabha meeting were not local residents, but rather BJP supporters who were paid in lakhs to create disruption. She further asserted that news outlets such as Thanthi TV, Polimer TV, and Dinamalar were resembling an extension of the Tamil Nadu BJP’s IT wing, initiating a malicious political assault against her.
பாஜக சில ஊடகங்களின் உதவியோடு எனக்கு எதிராக நடத்திக் கொண்டிருக்கும் இழிவான அரசியல் தாக்குதலுக்கு எனது பதிலடி!
Retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Pon Manickavel, who was also the former Inspector General of the Idol Wing, came forward with explosive details regarding the theft of an ancient idol from the revered Kundavai Jainalayam temple in Tamil Nadu. Kundavai, sister of the renowned Chola king Raja Raja Chola, commissioned the temple’s construction in 1070 CE during the Chola dynasty’s reign, as attested by inscriptions from that period. The Kundavai Jainalayam Temple is situated at Polur, near Thirumalai in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. The Jain temple, constructed in 1070 CE during the Chola dynasty, holds immense historical and religious significance for Jains.
The Jain Temple
The caves are carved intricately into a hill, alongside to two 16th-century temples dedicated to Neminatha and Vardhamana Mahavira. The rock-cut shrines within the caves are adorned with paintings that draw inspiration from Jaina teachings, likely originating from the 16th century. These paintings portray a cosmological view of the mortal realm, with a central focus on Jambudvipa, the continent containing India and represented by a circular shape, while Mount Meru is symbolized as a circle within it.
A significant theme depicted in the artwork is the “samavasarana,” a divine pavilion created by celestial beings after a Jain Tirthankara achieves omniscience. This pavilion serves as a space where various entities, including ascetics, heavenly beings, nuns, men, women, and animals, can attain wisdom. The central figure in the samavasarana is the Tirthankara, accompanied by disciples.
Unfortunately, only a portion of the depictions have endured time. The depictions of Jaina yakshas and yakshis have suffered damage as well, with the portrayal of Jivamalini being the sole surviving representation. The ceilings of the sanctuaries and antechambers boast an array of meticulously rendered textile patterns, geometric designs, arrays of geese, pearl festoons, and lotus petals, adding intricate decoration to the caves’ interiors.
The Idol
Manickavel disclosed that the idol, a 29-inch masterpiece, was stolen from the temple’s sanctum, and evidence suggests the theft occurred around 2003. The idol’s significance spans over 2,300 years, with inscriptions from various historical eras adorning the temple’s walls. According to inscriptions found within the temple, it was originally built by the Chera king Ezhini who is said to have ruled the region of Vanji 2000 years ago (what is present-day Karur) in what is believed to be the oldest temple site in the region. There is said to be a Bogar temple below it. The Archaeological Survey of India has taken over the caves below the Jain temple and Manickavel questioned why the state authorities did not register this one as the oldest in the records or the fact that there existed such an antique idol in the midst.
Raja Raja Chola is said to have built this temple in the 21st year of his regime, so approximately in 1106CE. There are inscriptions of the following at the temple:
Paranthaka
Krishnadeva III of the Rashtrakuta Empire
Raja Raja Chola
Rajendra Chola
Siddhabai – who donated to the temple
The temple’s antiquity is further underscored by its presence in the Sangam era. Notably, this cultural gem features a distinctive Vijayachakra, which is an unmistakable part of Jain temples.
The Accusations
Former officer Pon Manickavel, known for his dedication to bringing back stolen idols, spoke passionately about the significance of the temple and the alleged theft. He lamented that the authorities were aware of the theft for nearly two decades, despite clear evidence pointing towards it. He accused the temple management which comes under the purview of the Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department in Tamil Nadu, of failing to file a First Information Report (FIR) promptly, even though it is a crucial step in such cases. Manickavel expressed his concern that political affiliations and bureaucratic red tape might hinder the pursuit of justice and the recovery of the stolen idol.
The stolen idol is reported to have been sold for a staggering sum of 2.5 crores, according to information received by Manickavel. He revealed that the idol’s whereabouts are believed to be in Manhattan, specifically in the possession of an individual named Rajiv Chaudhary, a resident of New York, at his residence named Central Park West as of 2020.
Manickavel shared his frustration that, despite the considerable evidence he had gathered, the appropriate authorities had not shown the necessary urgency to address the issue.
Several well-known smugglers have been involved in illicit activities, with some of them engaged in smuggling valuable artifacts out of India, primarily based in Bombay. These individuals are operating under the guise of the “Indo Nepal Art Centre” and have been engaging in illegal activities, including smuggling artifacts out of India.
One of the prominent smugglers, Subash Kapoor, is currently incarcerated but is expected to be released from central jail soon.
Among these smugglers, Vallabha Prakash and Aditya Prakash have previously been arrested and imprisoned by Manickavel, but upon their release, they continued their covert operations. Surya Prakash is said to be the proprietor of the Indo Nepal Art Centre.
He highlighted the need for a proactive approach involving lower-level police officers who possess valuable insights into the local landscape and nuances of such cases.
Pon Manickavel also pointed out the need for immediate action under the directive of a landmark Supreme Court decision led by Justice Sadasivam, which should allow for the swift filing of an FIR in cases of this nature. He urged the Home Secretary of Tamil Nadu to take a firm stance on protecting the country’s cultural heritage. Manickavel added, “For 60 years, the HR&CE (Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments) department managed to deceive the public concerning the Raja Raja Chola idol theft, as they failed to file an FIR. I took the initiative to file the FIR and successfully retrieved the idol. Astonishingly, even the then Chief Minister, despite being in power, did not take steps to recover the idol. The credit for its recovery goes to us, ordinary police officers. Notably, the central government’s attempts to intervene were futile, as there were no legal provisions to impede our justified actions.”
Without mentioning names, he continued, “In this state, there is a family aiming to construct a memorial for their father, funded either by their political party or the public, I don’t know, be it whatever. However, it’s perplexing to neglect something as historically significant as this (temple/idol).”
He also mentioned that he, a retired officer had information about who stole what, where the idol is now/recently, who smuggled it, who facilitated it, and who sold it, and also the fact that after Subash Kapoor acquired the idol, he conducted a metallurgical analysis to determine its composition. He said, “I even know that one John Tweeley conducted this examination”. He lamented that when he had about 90% of the information about the case, what stopped the local authorities from following up with it? He said, “Even delivery personnel like Swiggy or my driver dedicate long hours, it’s disheartening that individuals in the department often don’t exhibit the same level of commitment.”
Replying to a question by one of the press persons he was speaking to about whether he would offer his services if required, he said, “Yes definitely, but no one has approached me. Also, a magistrate possesses the authority to appoint someone who isn’t a police officer, as stipulated by the law.”
He remarked that if this video is posted on YouTube, there’s a chance that some channels might twist the fact about the temple that Kundavai Piratiyar had converted to Jainism! However, he added that historical evidence shows that the siblings were unwavering Hindus and, more specifically, ardent followers of Saivism as mentioned in inscriptions, since the term “Hindu” wasn’t in use during that era, and Raja Raja Chola did not have any religious rivalry with the Jains. This explains the construction of the Jain temple without any contradiction.
The theft of the Kundavai Jainalayam Temple’s idol is a grim reminder of the challenges faced in safeguarding India’s rich historical and cultural legacy. Manickavel promised that even though he is no longer in service, he will continue to work for the public cause for the rest of his life. Manickavel said he was reaching out to the press before he went to the police in the hope that some action would be taken. He also added that he was holding this press meeting only with a noble intention of recovering the stolen idol and not to blame any party or person.
In a recent development, a formal complaint has been registered against Christian preachers in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana by Legal Rights activist, Legal Rights Protection Forum, accusing them of engaging in anti-national activities and enabling religious conversions. The complaint, which was addressed to the Union Home Ministry authorities, raises concerns about various incidents, including activities on national holidays and alleged involvement in the Manipur crisis.
Alleged National Holiday Disruption
The complaint draws attention to the deliberate organization of special Christian worship programs in numerous churches across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on significant national holidays such as August 15th and January 26th. It contends that certain churches are purportedly conducting full-day prayers, camps, and youth retreats on these days with what the complainants term a “malicious intention” of diverting citizens’ focus away from the celebration of Independence Day.
The complainants claim that some posters advertising these August 15th programs allegedly display disrespect to the national flag through alterations and religious inscriptions upon it. Furthermore, the complainants argue that hate-filled speeches have been delivered during these events, targeting freedom fighters and portraying them as “hell-bound disbelievers” due to their supposed lack of faith in Jesus Christ. The complainants assert that these activities are aimed at erasing the memory of India’s freedom struggle and its history from the minds of attendees, especially impressionable young children.
The complaint included screenshots of event flyers and posters, links of various Facebook groups
Allegations Of Inflammatory Statements
The complaint cites instances of inflammatory statements attributed to some Christian preachers in the past. These statements purportedly include claims that the national flag is merely a “piece of cloth,” suggestions to divide the country into religiously segregated regions, and allegations of plagiarism in the drafting of the Indian Constitution. Such statements have been criticised for their divisive nature and potential to fuel communal tensions.
Involvement In Manipur Crisis
The complaint also raises concerns about the alleged involvement of Christian preachers from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in the ongoing crisis in Manipur. According to the complaint, these preachers have been accused of exploiting the crisis to fan communal hatred. Demonstrations, videos, and social media posts have allegedly depicted the Manipur situation as Christian persecution by Hindus in the region. Highly divisive speeches have reportedly been delivered during rallies, further exacerbating tensions.
OBCC’s Honey Johnson was arrested in 2021 for abusing Hindu gods.
The complainants assert that some preachers who visited Manipur subsequently shared unverified stories of violence against Christians, calling for donations to support the affected community. A few of them were reported to have aligned with Daniel Stephen Courney, a foreign citizen who was deported from India in 2017. The Commune recently shared a report on this rabid missionary – you can read more here.
It is claimed that these actions have contributed to the deterioration of communal harmony in both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Call For Investigation And Action
The complainants have urged the authorities to initiate a thorough investigation into these allegations against Christian preachers in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. They emphasize the need to address the alleged anti-national activities and divisive rhetoric and suggest a temporary restriction on their visits to Manipur to prevent further exacerbation of the situation.
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The Twitter hashtag #ஐயோஅம்மா_கொல்றாங்க has been trending all over India since morning taking a dig at late DMK president Karunanidhi, who was snubbed by actor Ajith during a cine event held several years ago.
A video clip featuring Duraimurugan, the DMK minister and general secretary, has gained widespread attention on social media. In the viral video, DMK minister Duraimurugan said that he does not know who actor Ajith is.
The video clip in question was recorded during an interview given by Duraimurugan to the YouTube channel “Tamil Nadu Now” on 12 August 2023. In the interview, the anchor queried the minister on whether he watches movies of popular actors Vijay and Ajith. Duraimurugan, known for his expressive reactions, quipped, “Who is Ajith?” – a statement that has since reverberated widely.
அஜீத்னா யாருனு கேட்கறார் திமுகவின் பொது செயலாளர் துரைமுருகன் !
It is important to note that actor Ajith Kumar holds a prominent position within the realm of Tamil cinema. Given his stature, it is highly unlikely that Duraimurugan was unaware of him. In response to Duraimurugan’s statement of not recognising Ajith, fans of the actor initiated a trend on Twitter by sharing an old video of Ajith Kumar. In this video, Ajith openly spoke on a public platform, in the presence of the former DMK president Karunanidhi, revealing that DMK leaders were compelling him to participate in the event.
The incident happened during a felicitation ceremony on February 2010, organised by Kollywood to thank the late M Karunanidhi for allotting land in Kancheepuram for deserving members of the cine industry, Ajith, in the presence of the then Chief Minister, said, “If we don’t attend the protest, we are portrayed as anti-Tamils. On the one hand, they want us to participate in political events, and on the other hand, they threaten us not to enter politics. What is wrong with our entering politics if we are expected to participate in political and social events? Actors only want to act and are not interested in taking a stand on issues. But they have been lending support to various causes under extreme pressure. I request the Chief Minister to issue a direction that film personalities should not be arm-twisted to attend social and political events,”
This speech of actor Ajith Kumar on an open stage was seen as an insult to Karunanidhi and DMK. Ajith fans trended the video on Twitter along with the hashtag #ஐயோஅம்மா_கொல்றாங்க reminding Duraimurugan and DMK about who Ajith is and what he is capable of.
It’s worth mentioning that the phrase #ஐயோஅம்மா_கொல்றாங்க was the exact expression uttered by the late CM Karunanidhi on 30 June 2001, when he was being arrested under the regime of the then Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa on charges related to flyover corruption. Ajith’s supporters employed this hashtag to subtly mock the former Chief Minister Karunanidhi, symbolising it as a form of retaliation for the DMK minister’s assertion of being unfamiliar with Ajith.
Memes By Ajith Fans Mocking Karunanidhi – A Glance
Journalist Thinakaran Rajamani, who uncovered the alleged attempts by the DMK administration to shield IPS officer Balveer Singh, implicated in accusations of extracting teeth and crushing the testicles of detainees in Tirunelveli, is now being targeted by the DMK IT wing for raising serious questions about health care in Tamil Nadu. They branded him as ‘Sanghi’ and used abusive words against him like ‘vicious dog’, ‘parasite’, ‘penis’, and others.
An IPS officer named Balveer Singh, stationed in Tirunelveli, faced suspension following allegations of subjecting suspects to custodial torture. The accusations include the alleged acts of crushing the testicles and forcibly removing teeth from the detainees. Amid escalating public sentiment against the DMK’s perceived lack of action and opposition parties highlighting the matter in the state assembly, Chief Minister MK Stalin was compelled to take action, issuing orders for the suspension of Balveer Singh.
Journalist Thinakaran Rajamani played a pivotal part in bringing to light the custodial torture allegations involving Balveer Singh through media channels. Additionally, he played a significant role in uncovering a caste-based assault in Nanguneri, where a 17-year-old boy named Chinnadurai and his sister were attacked with a sickle by their fellow classmates.
Following the assault on Chinnadurai, Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramanium assured better medical care for the victim. The minister also stated that specialist surgeons from Stanley Hospital in Chennai would be brought in to provide superior treatment for Chinnadurai.
Amidst these circumstances, journalist Thinakaran Rajamani raised several pertinent questions regarding Tamil Nadu’s healthcare system. He questioned the rationale behind the Tamil Nadu government’s move to bring doctors from Chennai, which is situated 620 kilometers away from Tirunelveli, instead of ensuring the availability of specialist doctors in every district.
He said, “Do children from the southern districts not deserve such experts in Tirunelveli Medical College Hospital and the same treatment that Chennai people receive? One vote, same tax, right?”
He added, “Why does the State government not transfer its doctors every three years, like the Central government, so that people from all parts of the State can also benefit from the expertise of doctors from Stanley and other Chennai govt. hospitals? Moreover, other non-Chennai doctors will get an opportunity to work in the capital city.”
The queries posed by the journalist against the DMK government have not been well-received by both DMK leaders and the DMK IT wing. In reaction to Journalist Thinakaran’s inquiries, Sai Lakshmikanth, the son of DMK leader RS Bharathi, responded by subjecting the journalist to verbal abuse, accusing him of lacking common sense. He said, “Departments will be started based on the caseload. This common sense is lacking for most journalists. Starting a department is not having doctors alone. It involves a lot of infrastructure. But first, you need to have a sufficient patient load so that we break even.”
Departments will be started based on the case load. This common sense is lacking for most journalists. Starting a department is not having doctors alone. It involves lot of infrastructure. But first you need to have a sufficient patient load so that we break even. https://t.co/JEiXT4WviO
Responding to his provocation politely, Thinakaran said, “Seems doctors expect journalists to study MBBS before raising concerns about need of infra, private practice during duty hours, non-adherence of biometric attendance system, crore of loss incurred by service bond violation. Whenever I raise such issues, I’m asked to have iota of knowledge, common sense, etc.”
Members of the DMK IT wing initiated a wave of verbal attacks directed at Thinakaran. A DMK supporter, in a display of aggression, commented, “If you are unable to comprehend his explanation, it would be better if you close your ass and listen to him. Su**i (Penis).”
Subsequently, the DMK IT wing delved into journalist Thinakaran Rajamani’s tweets from over a decade ago, wherein he extended a welcome to PM, Narendra Modi, during the swearing-in of then CM Jayalalitha. Quoting these decade-old tweets, the DMK IT wing launched a verbal onslaught against Rajamani, labeling him a ‘Sanghi’ and a supporter of the BJP.
Quoting another old tweet of Thinakaran, where he took a dig at DMK for losing all 10 seats in Madurai, DMK IT wing troll named “Surya Born To Win” said, “This vicious dog has been barking at DMK for a long time with ulterior motives. He is a parasite living in someone’s alms.”
இந்த நாய் இன்றல்ல, அன்றிலிருந்தே திமுக மீது வன்மத்தை கக்கிக் கொண்டிருக்கும் ஒரு ஏவல் நாய்!
The series of tweets from the DMK IT wing, launching a verbal attack on the journalist, garnered significant criticism across social media platforms. Numerous users voiced their opinions, highlighting that the DMK should not anticipate every journalist to mirror the stance of Dravidian Stockist journalists, who sing paeans for the ruling DMK government.
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With the release of Rajnikanth’s latest film, Jailer, the spotlight falls on the temple shown in its opening scene. It is the Sanjeevirayar Hanuman Temple located in Ayyangarkulam, Kanchipuram.
Dear sir, heard this ancient temple 75kms from Chennai doesn't have enough support to manage their daily needs due to being a non-popular one. Said to be several thousand years old, it needs your attention. 🙏🏾
The story of this temple is said to date back to the Ramayana era. According to legend, when Lord Hanuman was bringing the Sanjeevi Hill to Sri Lanka to cure Lakshmana wounded in the battle, some parts of the hill fell at this location. This is why the deity, Hanuman, at this temple is known as Sri Sanjeevi Rayar.
According to another legend, Thatha Desikan and his followers embarked on a journey carrying wealth acquired through earnings and gifts to present to Sri Varadharaja Perumal of Kanchipuram. Upon reaching the temple, they discovered that their riches were being guarded by monkeys, mistakenly believing them to be Anjaneyar or Hanuman. In gratitude for this unexpected safeguard, Thatha Desikan constructed a temple dedicated to Anjaneyar and crafted a Sanskrit composition known as ‘Srimad Hanumath Vimsathi’.
History
The temple is said to have been built in the Vijayanagara period by a scholar and administrator named Kotikanyadanam Sri Lakshmi Kumara Thathachariar roughly around the 15th-16th century.
Sri Lakshmi Kumara Thathachariar is said to have held a prominent position during the Vijayanagara Empire. He was a distinguished vaishnavite scholar who served as Chief Minister and Raja Guru for the Vijayanagara Kings Venkatapathy Rayas I and II. He also oversaw the administration of Divya Desams in Kanchipuram, Sriperumbudur, and Kumbakonam. Over time, the temple and its associated tank gained the names ‘Thatha Samudram’ and ‘Thiruvadi Rayapuram’, ultimately evolving into ‘Ayyangarkulam’. The principal deity of the temple, Sri Sanjeevirayar, holds a significant place as the foremost shrine dedicated to Sri Anjaneyar in this region of the country.
Sri Thatha Desikan displayed his philanthropic spirit by arranging numerous marriages for the underprivileged, leading to his accolade as “Koti Kanniyadhana Lakshmi Kumara Thatha Desikan,” or alternatively known as “Ettur Lakshmi Kumara Thathacharya.”
Two Grantha inscriptions eulogise Sri Sanjeevirayar through poetic compositions. One of these inscriptions extols Thathachariar in poetic form, while the second inscription documents the establishment of the Hanuman Temple and the creation of the ‘Thathasamudram’ reservoir.
An inscription dated 1609 CE, attributed to King Venkatapathirayar of the Vijayanagara Kingdom, documents the grant of the villages Ayyankulathur and Enathiputhur to this revered Hanuman deity.
Current State
Although this temple features in Tamil films routinely, it is in a dilapidated condition. It is worth noting that the Sanjeevirayar temple comes under the ambit of the Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) department of the Tamil Nadu state government. It is truly lamentable that neither the government nor the film fraternity has stepped forward to shoulder the responsibility of preserving a temple of such distinguished ancient heritage and renown.
Organisations such as People For Dharma have been involved in the restoration and renovation works of many temples across the country and the Sanjeevirayar Temple is one among them.
Rajini's Jailer movie starts with a shot of this Ayyangarkulam Sanjeevirayar temple. It's epic to note that this old Vijayanagaran era temple features in almost every other tamil film, but neither HRCE nor the wealthy film makers/artists are interested in restoring it. https://t.co/Az4MOY66Oh
It has now come to people’s attention that the temple currently conducts puja only once a day. This is unusual considering the temple possesses a considerable amount of land. What is even more startling is that the archaka, who conducts the rituals, receives a meagre salary of just ₹1000 per month. It’s quite astonishing that there seems to be little concern for these matters or even the deteriorating state of the temple.
The HR&CE department, however, finds itself in multiple controversies such as the recent Kanakasabai entry at Chidambaram temple or the permission to allow non-Hindus at Pazhani temple despite an existing court ruling against it.
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Ambasamudram in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu is home to a village named Brahmadesam where the 1000-year-old Brahmadesam Kailasanathar Temple is located. This temple is the first of Navakailasa temples in Tamil Nadu.
The temple was originally built during King Raja Raja Chola’s reign during which, this village was donated to Vedic Scholars for reciting the Four Vedas, which is why it was named Chaturveda Mangalam or Brahmadhayam. Additional parts of the temple were later constructed by Pandya Kings and Hoysala Kings. King Viswanatha Naick, who ruled from Tirunelveli, oversaw the construction of significant features like the tall seven-story front Rajagopuram and the five-story back Gopuram, along with substantial compound walls.
Inside the temple, there are magnificent sculptures and a finely crafted door that displays remarkable artistic skill. In the past, the temple likely had a substantial workforce dedicated to its upkeep. However today, only three individuals, including a priest and two staff members, have been assigned by HR&CE to manage this vast temple whose area spans a few acres. Shockingly, their combined monthly earnings are less than ₹5000. The entirety of the donations in the Hundi is directed to the government. Similar to many ancient temples, this one also emits an aura of neglect. The priest continues his duties out of familial tradition as a fourth-generation priest, driven by a profound attachment to the temple.
Recently Hindu activist Shefali Vaidya visited the temple and she narrated what she encountered at the temple in a tweet.
“Yesterday, while we were exiting the temple, a JCB drove towards the main entrance and dropped heavy steel doors and other material required for the construction of a strong room right at the main entrance of the temple, in such a way, that the entrance was completely blocked. The priest was practically begging the guys delivering the material to help him put the doors away on the side so the devotees could enter the temple. The contractor was flatly refusing, saying, his job was only to unload the cargo at the temple entrance and he had done so! The priest shrugged helplessly and told us that he has no option but to leave the heavy construction material like that, blocking the main entrance. He would have to arrange for local guys at night, after the temple was closed to move the stuff away, on his own time, and possibly money! When we left the temple, the heavy steel doors were still dumped unceremoniously beneath the main entrance of the Rajagopuram, with the priest looking helpless and harassed! This is the state of a government-controlled 1000-year-old Hindu temple in India!”
The way @tnhrcedept under @mkstalin operates in Tamil Nadu, as far as Hindu temples are concerned!
The Brahmadesam Kailasanathar Temple is a 1000 year old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The present structure dates back to the reign of King Raja Raja Chozha. The great chozha… pic.twitter.com/4RN8wjpOVG
Another temple in Ambasamudram which lies in neglect is the Kasinathar Temple. Shefali Vaidya shared a video of the deplorable condition the temple is in today. This temple is said to be built by Chola kings nearly 900 years ago and it is mentioned in her tweet that locals claim that the construction debris had been lying near the main gopuram (tower) for several months.
Another example of how callously @tnhrcedept under @arivalayam and @mkstalin maintains 1000 year old Hindu temples in Tamil Nadu. This is criminal neglect. This is from the Kasipnathar temple in Ambasamudram, again a 900 year plus old built by the Chozhas. These construction… pic.twitter.com/u7NHlM0Jco
Yet another ancient temple that is in a state of neglect as shared by Shefali Vaidya is the Thiru Kutralanathar temple in Courtallam, Tenkasi district of Tamil Nadu. The Thiru Kutralanathar is said to be associated with one of the Pancha Sabhais where Lord Shri Nataraja is said to have performed the Cosmic Dance.
Chola King Kochenkannan planted a sacred tree, signifying worship of Kutralanathar. Kabilar’s “Sivaperuman Anthathi” references Courtallam’s beauty and Kutralanathar’s popularity, even in the Pallava Period.
Initially a Vishnu temple per Puranas, Sage Agasthiar transformed it into Kutralanathar temple. The deity’s perpetual headache led to nightly abhishekam with 64 herbs and a herbal Prasadam is disributed to the devotees even today after the abhishekam. The conch-shaped temple points to its Vaishnavite origin.
Thirukutralanathar temple has 89 inscriptions. Some date back to Chola King Parakesari Varman, mentioning Thirukkutrala Perumal, and later as Kutralathevan and Madevan. References to donations and the term “Perumal” suggest shrines of both Lord Perumal and Lord Siva.
The Thevaram Songs by Pallava Kings highlight Courtallam and its deity. Appar, Sundarar, and other Saivite saints have sung in praise of the deity. Texts like Thevaram, Thiruvasagam, and others describe Koothan in Courtallam.
Shefali Vaidya mentioned that the instances of alleged neglect and lack of concern on the part of the HR&CE department under the administration of MK Stalin towards Hindu temples in Tamil Nadu have come to light. She tweeted, “Construction debris are everywhere in the outside mandapa, river is filthy with lots of rubbish dumped there and there are cobwebs everywhere. Original temple walls have been defaced with vanity boards of politicians.”
More examples of the apathy and indifference shown by @tnhrcedept under @mkstalin towards Hindu temples in TN. These are pics from Tirukutralnathar temple, from Coutralam, site of one of the panchsabais where Shri Nataraja is thought to have danced. Construction debris are… pic.twitter.com/G7sQ2sFecs
Ancient temples, some over 1000 years old, come under the control of the Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department of the state government. The HR&CE website states that “There are 46,090 Hindu and Jain Temples under control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Department.”
Yet, most of the temples under their control are in a state of neglect and disrepair. Recently, a portion of the entry tower on the eastern side of the Srirangam Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple collapsed. It has been alleged that the negligence of the department that this happened.
The Commune had also reported the sad state of affairs at the Sri Sanjeevi Rayar Temple which featured in the opening scene of the Rajnikanth-starrer Jailer. Despite all this, the temples have been left as they are and no effort has been made to restore them to their original splendour.
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