Kollam witnessed an unusual political-religious irony after the name of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK chief MK Stalin appeared on the official offering list of the Pazhayidom Narasimhaswami Temple at Anayadi, ahead of its annual Gajamela (elephant fair).
According to temple records released for the 20 January 2026 festival, an elephant parade offering has been booked in Stalin’s name – an irony of ironies given his public rejection (as well as that of the party) of religious rituals and his party’s ‘rationalist ideology’ rooted in the Dravidian movement.
The offering, however, was not initiated by Stalin or the DMK. Temple authorities confirmed that it was sponsored by two of his ardent supporters – M Jayan, a Chennai-based welding worker, and his aunt Sulatha Chandran, a Tamil Nadu native residing in Anayadi. The duo reportedly pooled savings over several years to meet the ₹10,000 fee required for parading an elephant as a votive offering.
Temple officials said the pair had been making the booking annually since 2022, initially prompting scepticism from the temple committee. The registration was taken seriously only after the devotees appeared in person to remit the amount. This year’s notice gained wider attention after Stalin’s name appeared publicly in the festival booklet, leading to curiosity among locals and a surge in enquiries to the temple.
The offering was reportedly booked in the sixth slot, which the devotees believe symbolises prosperity. Temple president Chandrakumar stated that the viral attention stemmed largely from the contrast between Stalin’s political identity and the religious nature of the offering, adding that it was unlikely the Chief Minister himself was aware of it.
Speaking to the media, Sulatha reportedly acknowledged the ideological contradiction but maintained that their actions were driven purely by personal belief. She stated that while Stalin may not agree with religious practices, the prayers were intended for his health, longevity, and electoral success.
The duo has reportedly vowed to continue the offering for six consecutive years, with this year marking the fourth. Despite health challenges, Sulatha said the ritual would be carried out as planned, with Jayan travelling from Chennai to participate.
Source: OnManorama
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