Image Source: Dinamalar
The sudden disappearance of the centuries-old Madhesilingam Temple on Mangalam Hill near Palladam has alarmed local social activists. Located next to Mangalam Government School, the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and under the administration of the Hindu Charities Department has historically attracted large numbers of devotees, especially on auspicious days like Pradosham, Amavasya, and Pournami.
Social activists, led by Annadurai of the Palladam Social Activists Association, visited the site upon receiving reports of the temple’s sudden disappearance. Speaking to the media, Annadurai expressed shock, stating that the temple is of great historical and spiritual significance. “The Mangalam Hill Temple is very old, and its sanctity is evident from its structure and tradition. Lord Shiva has blessed devotees on this hill for generations,” he said.
Annadurai criticized the Charities Department for neglecting the temple. He highlighted that the front hall of the temple had been damaged by termites and that the lack of proper maintenance made it difficult for devotees to continue worshipping. He condemned the department, which is expected to promote spirituality, for allowing the temple to fall into such a state.
The activist also raised concerns about the manner in which the temple disappeared. “It is shocking that a temple, which has not been maintained for years, has suddenly vanished without any prior notice. According to the temple priest, it was recently demolished for renovation. However, there is no sign of a palalayam or any construction work at the site,” he said.
Annadurai questioned whether the Charitable Trust Department acted intentionally in removing the temple. He urged the department to take immediate steps to rebuild the temple, conduct a Kumbabhishekam to restore its traditional grandeur, and make it accessible again for devotees. He also called for a notice to be displayed at the site to inform the public about the temple’s status and planned restoration.
(With inputs from Dinamalar)
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