The Chidambaram Nataraja Temple has been embroiled in controversy due to the recent incidents that have taken place.
At the center of the controversy is the decision to restrict public access to the Kanakasabhai (Golden Hall) in the Chidambaram Nataraja Temple for four days following the annual Aani Thirumanjanam festival. This restriction has been a longstanding tradition at the temple during this festival.
The Tamil Nadu Government in May 2022 had issued a GO permitted the devotees of Chidambaram Natarajar temple to stand atop ‘Kanagasabai’ (golden platform) and offer prayer within the temple premises. However, during the Aani Thirumanjanam ceremony, when the temple jewels are adorned by Thillai Nataraja, access to the Kanakasabhai is restricted to ensure security.
The HR&CE officials removed the board placed by the Deekshitars announcing these restrictions. This led to an argument between the Deekshitars and the officials.
Based on information available in public domain and the comments given to the press by the wife of a Deekshitar and the advocate representing the Deekshitars, The Commune had reported that HR&CE officials had forcefully entered the kanakasabai and assaulted the Deekshitars. It was alleged that the Deekshitar was pushed and his poonool got cut off in the episode.
However, Chidambaram police officials have denied that such an incident happened. They say that officials had entered the platform to allow worship as per the government order.
Further clarity on the issue is awaited.