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Chennai Police Halt “Sangeetha Bhakti Ratha Yatra,” Seize Chariot Midway Through Planned Temple Tour

Chennai police have detained the chariot of the “Sangeetha Bhakti Ratha Yatra,” organized by the group Sangeetha Gnanamu. The yatra, intended to raise awareness about the divinity of music, involved a chariot featuring statues of Nayanmars, Andal, and other figures from Carnatic music and Tamil devotional literature.

The event commenced on 12 December 2024 at the Kapaleeswarar Temple in Mylapore and was scheduled to visit various temples and sabhas in Chennai. The chariot journeyed from the Kapaleeswarar Temple to RR Sabha on its first day and later from Kesava Perumal Temple to Brahma Gana Sabha on 14 December 2024. On 16 December 2024, the chariot was supposed to proceed from Kanchi Mutt to RK Mutt, with the chariot parked at PS School in Mylapore for the night.

However, police intervened on Monday, 16 December 2024, and denied further permissions, citing potential traffic disruptions and concerns over law and order. They subsequently seized the chariot, halting the procession.

Organizers expressed deep disappointment, stating that the yatra was a heartfelt initiative to connect music and divinity through a series of processions and performances. They criticized the police’s actions, claiming it disrupted their plans and dampened the spirit of the event.

The yatra schedule featured daily processions starting at 6:15 AM, with activities including Mangala Isai, devotional songs, and cultural performances at the destination sabhas. Evening sessions included dance and music offerings near the chariot.

In response to the police action, the organizing committee announced their intent to submit a formal petition to the Chennai Police Commissioner.

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