Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, M K Stalin, celebrated his 70th birthday on 1 March 2023. The DMK party cadres marked the day with great pomp and show. A camel decorated in DMK flag was gifted to Stalin by his partymen.
On the other hand, his wife, Durga Stalin, performed a Bhimaratha Shanti Yagam in his name at the Thirukkadaiyur Temple praying for his well-being.
Thirukkadaiyur, Mayiladuthurai, is home to the sacred Shri Abirami Sametha Shri Amritakadeshwarar temple, which falls under the Dharmapuram Aadheenam. This revered temple is a significant religious destination for Hindus who have reached the milestone ages of 60, 70, 80, 90, and 100 years old. The temple conducts special pujas and rituals that are aimed at invoking blessings for a long and healthy life. Devotees flock to Thirukkadaiyur from far and wide to partake in these auspicious ceremonies, which are believed to bring about good health, prosperity, and longevity. The temple’s significance has been passed down through generations, and it remains a cherished and revered destination for Hindus seeking divine intervention for a long and fulfilling life.
Durga Stalin was received by DMK Secretary Amrita Vijayakumar during this visit to the Dharmapuram Aadheenam temple. Other officials from HR&CE department, also extended a welcome to Durga Stalin.
As a part of her visit, she performed various pujas including Gaja Pooja (Elephant worship), Go Puja (Cow worship) and Ashva Puja (Horse worship) for her husband and Tamil Nadu CM, MK Stalin, followed by the Bhima Ratha Shanti Yaga to commemorate his 70th birthday.
According to reports, police were present at the temple during the pujas performed by Durga Stalin. The police also did not permit any devotees or members of the public to enter the thousand-pillared Mandapam, where the ceremonies were being conducted.
It is to be noted that the DMK identifies itself as a ‘rationalist’ party with their ‘rationalism’ directed towards Hinduism. EV Ramasamy Naicker (hailed as ‘Periyar’ by his followers), a rabid anti-Hindu bigot is venerated by the DMK as their deological scion. DMK leaders like A. Raja often denigrate Hinduism and Hindus.
Stalin’s wife Durga Stalin on the other hand openly idenfies herself as a devout Hindu. Her performing the rituals as per Hindu customs has dented the DMK’s atheist credentials.
(With inputs from Dinamalar)
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