The Guruvayur Municipality has issued a notice to permanently close the National Paradise Restaurant following a widely condemned incident involving its owner, Abdul Hakeem. The closure comes after CCTV footage surfaced showing Hakeem allegedly desecrating a sacred Tulsi altar near the Guruvayur Temple. The footage, which went viral on social media, sparked outrage across the Hindu community.

Victory for justice!

Guruvayur Municipality has issued a notice to permanently shut down Abdul Hakeem’s ‘National Paradise Hotel’ after CCTV footage revealed his vile act of plucking hair from his private parts and placing it on a sacred Tulsi altar.

Such disrespect… pic.twitter.com/XvbxINU5Rx

— महारथी-മഹാരഥി (@MahaRathii) January 18, 2025

In the video, Hakeem is allegedly seen plucking pubic hair and throwing it on the Tulsi plant, an act deeply offensive to Hindu religious sentiments. The incident led to widespread protests, with the Hindu Aikya Vedi filing a formal complaint that prompted Hakeem’s arrest.

How can the Kerala communist Govt justify issuing a hotel license to radical Abdul Hakeem who disrespeced Tulsi Altar, reportedly under mental disorder treatment, as per Kerala Police? Shockingly, his hotel in Guruvayoor, near a sacred Hindu temple, has a history of cases. Is… pic.twitter.com/82sm4DS54h

— Hindu Seva Kendram (@HinduSevaKendra) January 16, 2025

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and other Hindu organizations subsequently performed a purification ritual to restore the sanctity of the altar.

This is not the first controversy involving Hakeem or his establishment. In 2017, health inspectors seized stale and spoiled food from the National Paradise Restaurant, which was the third such raid on the premises. Allegations of political intervention had reportedly suppressed earlier complaints. Additionally, Hakeem has faced accusations of pelting stones at buses carrying Ayyappa devotees and allegedly installing hidden cameras in the restaurant’s restrooms.

The Thrissur City Police, in a Facebook post, claimed Hakeem has been undergoing treatment for a mental disability for 25 years. They threatened against sharing the viral video, stating that fostering social unrest through such posts would result in strict legal action.

The municipality’s decisive action to shut down the restaurant has been hailed as a victory for justice by the local community.

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The post Guruvayur Municipality Issues Notice To Shut Down Abdul Hakeem’s National Paradise Restaurant Over Tulsi Plant Desecration Incident appeared first on The Commune.

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) intervened to restore sanctity after a Tulsi plant near the revered Guruvayur Temple was allegedly desecrated by Abdul Hakeem, the owner of National Paradise Restaurant. A purification ceremony, including Tulsi Vandana, was performed under the leadership of VHP District Joint Secretary Anoop, with participation from Hindu Aikya Vedi activists, Temple Protection Committee members, and local devotees.  

What Happened?

The desecration incident came to light after a video went viral on social media, showing Hakeem allegedly plucking pubic hair and throwing it on the Tulsi plant. The act sparked widespread outrage, prompting the Vishwa Hindu Parishad to organize the purification ritual to reaffirm the sanctity of the Tulsi altar.  

The Thrissur City Police, in a Facebook post, has been allegedly trying to claim that Hakeem has allegedly been suffering from a mental disability for 25 years and is undergoing treatment.

They also issued a warning against sharing the video, stating that posts fostering social unrest would result in strict legal action.

Hindu Aikya Vedi filed a complaint regarding the incident, leading to Hakeem’s arrest, according to social media reports. This is not the first time Hakeem has faced allegations. In 2017, health inspectors seized stale and spoiled food from his restaurant, National Paradise Restaurant, marking the third such raid. Earlier incidents were reportedly suppressed due to political intervention.  

https://twitter.com/MahaRathii/status/1879538788398956751

Hakeem has also been accused of pelting stones at buses carrying Ayyappa devotees and allegedly installing hidden cameras in the hotel’s restrooms, leading to multiple complaints at the Guruvayur police station.  

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The post Vishwa Hindu Parishad Conducts Purification Ritual For Tulsi Plant Desecrated By Abdul Hakeem In Guruvayur appeared first on The Commune.

A video of one Abdul Hakeem, the owner of National Paradise Restaurant in Guruvayur, showing him allegedly desecrating a sacred Tulsi plant with his pubic hair went viral on social media.

In the video, the man can be seen walking towards the Tulsi plant while he scratches his groin, plucks the pubic hair and puts it on Tulsi plant, which is considered sacred by Hindus.

The incident sparked widespread outrage on social media, though many posts sharing the video were later deleted, reportedly due to legal warnings from authorities.

The Thrissur City Police, in a Facebook post, stated that Hakeem has allegedly been suffering from a mental disability for 25 years and is undergoing treatment. They also warned against sharing the video, emphasizing that posts fostering social unrest would result in strict legal action. They wrote, “A video of a young man in Guruvayur is being seen spreading in social media in a way that fosters social spirit. In the investigation, information has been received that this young man has a mental disability for almost 25 years and is under treatment for it. Those who share this video and those who share posts in a way that develop social rivalry will be subjected to strict legal action.”

Hindu Aikya Vedi has reportedly filed a complaint in this regard after which the man in the video was allegedly arrested based on a few reports on social media.

This is not the first time Hakeem has faced allegations. On 12 January 2017, health inspectors seized stale and spoiled food from his establishment, the National Paradise Restaurant, marking the third such raid on the premises. Earlier incidents were reportedly suppressed due to political intervention.

How can the Kerala communist Govt justify issuing a hotel license to radical Abdul Hakeem who disrespeced Tulsi Altar, reportedly under mental disorder treatment, as per Kerala Police? Shockingly, his hotel in Guruvayoor, near a sacred Hindu temple, has a history of cases. Is… pic.twitter.com/82sm4DS54h

— Hindu Seva Kendram (@HinduSevaKendra) January 16, 2025

The hotel owner has also been accused of pelting stones at buses carrying Ayyappa devotees and allegedly installing hidden cameras in the hotel’s restrooms, leading to further complaints at the Guruvayur police station.

https://twitter.com/MahaRathii/status/1879538788398956751

The recent episode involving the man adds to his controversial history, highlighting repeated allegations of misconduct. As calls for accountability grow louder, police have assured a thorough investigation into the matter.

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The post Kerala Police Threatens Legal Action Against Those Who Share Video Of Abdul Hakeem Desecrating Tulsi Plant, Claims He Has Mental Disability appeared first on The Commune.

As Kerala faces a looming financial crisis and soaring unemployment, one might expect its political leaders to focus on economic revival. Instead, the Communist Party has stirred controversy over an age-old temple dress code tradition: the practice of men entering temples shirtless.

This latest assault on Hindu customs has triggered widespread debate, raising questions about whether the Kerala government is genuinely progressive or simply targeting Sanatana Dharma.

The Controversy

The issue arose during the inauguration of the Sivagiri pilgrimage, an event attended by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and other political leaders. During his address, Swami Sachidananda, president of the Sri Narayana Dharma Sanghom, remarked on the tradition of shirtless entry in some temples under the Sree Narayana Trust. He suggested that this practice be abolished.

The Chief Minister, speaking after Swami Sachidananda, endorsed the idea, extending it to other temples. Labelling the move as a “progressive measure,” Vijayan framed the tradition as outdated, setting the stage for a more significant cultural and political debate.

Swami Sachidananda’s suggestion, originally specific to temples under the Sree Narayana Trust, quickly snowballed into a statewide issue. Leaders from both political spectrums voiced their opinions, but Communist leader M.V. Govindan drew the sharpest criticism.

Govindan branded Sanatana Dharma as “obscene,” stating, “The exact meaning of Sanatana Dharma is the chaturvarnya system based on Manusmriti. In fact, it is obscene in this era.”

“Sanatana Dharma is Obscene.” ~ Communist Leader

Another Communist leader, M.V. Govindan, joined the bandwagon. He went a step further, stating that “Sanatana Dharma is obscene.”

This is what he said: “The exact meaning of Sanatana Dharma is the chaturvarnya system based on… pic.twitter.com/GcOdGiet7b

— Anand #IndianfromSouth (@Bharatiyan108) January 6, 2025

This narrative is not new among leftist circles, which frequently blame the Manusmriti for caste discrimination while conflating the Varna system with the rigid caste hierarchies introduced during colonial rule. They conveniently ignore the Bhagavad Gita’s explanation of Varna, where Krishna states, “Chaturvarnyam Mayasrishtam” (The four categories of occupations were created by me). It is rooted in nature and occupation, not birth.

Selective Activism By Communists

Kerala’s Communist Party has long targeted Hindu traditions under the pretext of modernization while remaining silent on regressive practices in other religions.

For instance, the party raises no objections to practices like the hijab, seen as oppressive by some, or circumcision, performed on young boys without their consent. Nor do they question the attire and rituals of Mecca pilgrims, who wear unstitched garments and often remain bare-chested—practices strikingly similar to the Hindu temple customs they criticize.

This choosy activism points to an agenda that prioritizes deriding Hindu traditions while avoiding controversies in other faiths.

Why Men Enter Temples Shirtless

The tradition of shirtless entry into temples is neither arbitrary nor outdated; it is deeply rooted in the spiritual and scientific principles of Sanatana Dharma.

According to Dr. M.S. Sankaran, a renowned endocrinologist and author on Hindu spirituality, temples are spiritual energy centers. The idols housed within them continuously dissipate energy. Removing stitched garments facilitates the absorption of this energy, akin to recharging a battery.

Why do men remove shirts while entering temples?

Let’s understand that all the traditions and rituals connected to Sanatana Dharma were established by enlightened saints such as Agastya, who knew the secrets of our existence. Unfortunately, due to centuries of invasion,… pic.twitter.com/hxcd0hNvUC

— Anand #IndianfromSouth (@Bharatiyan108) January 6, 2025

Additionally, wet clothes serve as excellent conductors of energy, which is why devotees often bathe in temple ponds before entering. This practice ensures that devotees are physically and spiritually attuned to the sanctity of the space.

The tradition also aligns with Agamic principles, where unstitched garments symbolize purity and submission to the deity. Men’s bare chests reflect humility and reverence, while the Panchakaccha (a specific type of unstitched cloth) represents the householder’s effort to stabilize the senses and focus on the divine.

The Panchakaccham is actually an akhanda vastram. Vikaccham anuttariyam nagnascha avastrasya eva cha. Sitting in a puja or even having food or bathing with a torn panchakaccha, without a proper border, and without wearing a proper angavastram and koupeenam is considered to be

— Master Chief Smart(h)an (@SparesofWar) October 5, 2021

The angavastram (upper garment) and koupeenam (loincloth) are also vital elements of temple attire, emphasizing the importance of maintaining both external and internal sanctity during rituals.

Wearing improper attire—such as stitched garments, torn clothes, or unwashed fabric—during rituals is considered disrespectful in Sanatana Dharma. Even simple acts like eating or bathing in Vedic traditions require adherence to specific dress codes, reflecting the sanctity of daily actions.

This reverence extends beyond temples. The Ramayana describes Sri Rama wearing a single cloth and golden pendant while radiating divine energy, demonstrating how simplicity and sanctity go hand in hand.

Sri Narayana Guru’s Legacy

The Sivagiri Mutt, central to this controversy, was founded by Sri Narayana Guru, a revered spiritual leader and social reformer. Guru propagated the Advaita philosophy, emphasizing the unity of all beings and the divine.

Who was Sri Narayana Guru?

Unfortunately, an auspicious occasion like the inauguration of the Sivagiri pilgrimage season was misused by the Communists to target Sanatana Dharma once again.

Sivagiri Mutt was established by Sri Narayana Guru, who lived during the late 19th and… pic.twitter.com/6RYzGmvcPD

— Anand #IndianfromSouth (@Bharatiyan108) January 6, 2025

A pioneer of social equality, Guru sought to uplift marginalized communities while respecting Sanatana Dharma’s spiritual essence. His teachings harmonized personal devotion (Saguna) with universal consciousness (Nirguna), embodying the inclusive nature of Hindu philosophy.

It is ironic that an occasion to honor his legacy was overshadowed by political agendas aimed at dismantling the very traditions he revered.

The ongoing debate over shirtless entry into temples is emblematic of a larger pattern of targeting Hindu customs under the guise of modernization. Kerala’s Communist Party has repeatedly undermined Sanatana Dharma, framing its rituals as regressive while ignoring their spiritual significance.

This selective criticism starkly contrasts their silence on practices in other religions that could equally be deemed “regressive.” Their unwillingness to apply the same standards across faiths raises serious questions about their intentions.

Every ritual in Sanatana Dharma was established by enlightened saints like Agastya, who understood the intricate relationship between body, mind, and divine energy. These traditions are not mere relics of the past but timeless practices that foster spiritual alignment and inner harmony.

In a state grappling with economic challenges, the Communist Party’s preoccupation with deriding Hindu traditions reflects misplaced priorities and a troubling lack of respect for cultural heritage.

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The post Kerala Communist Leaders Brand Temple Dress Code As “Obscene”, Call For End To Traditional Temple Attire – Here’s What You Must Know appeared first on The Commune.

In a recent visit that has sparked curiosity and contemplation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a spiritual journey, making stops at iconic religious sites across India. From Nashik in Maharashtra to Lepakshi in Andhra Pradesh to Guruvayur and Thriprayar in Kerala to Srirangam in Trichy, Tamil Nadu the Prime Minister’s itinerary has raised curiosity about the intersection of religion and politics. His visit to Guruvayur in Kerala on 17 January 2024, and the Srirangam visit on 20 January 2024 in particular, have ignited discussions about the more profound message behind these pilgrimages.

The Sacred Trail – From Maharashtra To Andhra Pradesh To Kerala To Tamil Nadu

The Prime Minister’s pilgrimage began in Nashik, at the Kalaram temple which is located in the Panchavati area along the banks of the river Godavari. Panchavati holds a unique significance, being the location where several pivotal events of the Ramayana unfolded. Lord Ram, Sita Devi, and Lakshmana resided in the Dandakaranya forest, situated within the Panchvati region, for a span of a few years. This Panchavati region sees its association with the Aranya Kandam of the Ramayana. It is also said that Shoorpanaka, Ravana’s sister’s nose was cut off here.

The journey continued to Lepakshi, at Veerabhadraswamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh believed by some to be the site of Jatayu Moksham. It is also believed that Jayatu Moksham also took place in Maharashtra.

From Lepakshi, PM Modi went to Thriprayar Ramakshetram and Guruvayur in Kerala followed by Srirangam and Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu, two significant temples associated with the worship of Rama.

Thriprayar Ramar Temple – Part Of The 4 Temples (Naalambalam)

Kerala is home to 4 temples which come under the Naalambalam – 4 temples. The one associated with Thriprayar Rama Temple also include a temple each for Lord Rama’s brothers, Bharatha, Lakshmana, and Shatrughna. The other three temples are located at Koodalmanikyam in Irinjalakuda, Moozhikulam Sree Lakshmana Perumal Temple and Payammal Sree Shathruknha Swami Temple around Thrissur district.

Guruvayur And Srirangam – Religious Significance And Connection To The North

Dushyanth Sridhar in an interview with India Today mentions the significance of Guruvayur and Srirangam. He says, “What catches my eye and attention are two places. One is Guruvayur in Kerala and second is in the adjacent state of Tamil Nadu which is by the banks of river Kaveri called Srirangam. In the Ramayana, we have reference where Kaushalya was worshiping her Kuladeivam, her family deity. And Rama and Sita worshipped this Lord while in Ayodhya. So Valmiki Ramayana clearly states that the divine couple Sita and Rama worshipped their family deity in Ayodhya and towards the end of the Pattabishekam, this kula Dhanam was handed over to Vibhishana. On his sojourn to Lanka, he placed this Divyamangala vigraham by the banks of river Kaveri and that is Srirangam and the Lord is Ranganathaswami. So, in a way, we all venerate, propitiate, and worship Rama and for Rama the kuladeivam, the family deity is Srirangam. Similarly in Krishnavataram, Krishna’s family deity which was earlier in Uttar Pradesh then in Dwaraka, was carried by Guru and Vayu with the advice of Uddhava by the Western Sea and that is Guruvayur where Lord Krishna is. So for Krishna the kuladeivam, the family deity is in Guruvayur, Kerala for Rama the kuladhanam is in the adjacent state which is in Tamil Nadu which is Ranganatha. So this is the significance. Ironically, Adi Shankara and Ramanuja hailed from these two adjacent states.”

Rameshwaram Temple In Tamil Nadu

Something very interesting about this temple for Ramanathaswamy is that the kings who did a lot of service to the temple were called Sethupathi Rajas. They were called so because they were the rulers who protected the Ram Sethu that connected Bharat (India) and Lanka. Ramanathaswamy temple is also known for its corridors. Rameshwaram is also connected to our former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam.

Symbolism Beyond Borders

The Ramayana not only unifies the country from north to south but also spans a vast expanse from east to west. It traverses regions from Kambuja desham (Cambodia) to Thailand and Indonesia, where the Kakawin Ramayana is celebrated through the Kecak dance in Bali. The influence of Ramayana extends as far as Persia, where the Persian ramayanam exists. Abundant literature, iconography, and architecture corroborate the pervasive presence and impact of Ramayana across diverse regions.

Rama’s journey during his exile period is equally remarkable, starting from Uttar Pradesh and extending through Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and some parts of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Eventually, he reaches Tamil Nadu, constructs a sethu, and proceeds to Sri Lanka. This significant journey underscores the notion that Rama transcends regional boundaries, belonging to a broader cultural and geographical tapestry.

Leadership and Cultural Preservation

While governance and law and order are paramount for any leader, Prime Minister Modi’s deliberate choice to connect with India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage underscores a commitment to preserving the nation’s civilisational identity. The Prime Minister’s visits to these sacred sites acknowledge the diverse cultural tapestry and serve as a reminder of the shared heritage that unites the country.

As Dushyanth succintly puts it, “Ramayanam itself means the path taken by Rama. What unites India is the Rama’s journey so that is why Prime Minister Modi comes all the way to Kerala to visit Guruvayur and Thriprayar to Rameswaram to Srirangam in Tamil Nadu, Lepakshi in Andra Pradesh, I’m sure he may also be visiting Bengaluru which signifies Kishkindha kandam because Kishkinta is all the way around Hampi and then he went to Nashik too.”

Prime Minister Modi’s spiritual sojourn, marked by visits to religious sites steeped in history, carries a nuanced message that goes beyond the realms of politics. The journey reflects a recognition of India’s cultural diversity, a reminder of the shared spiritual legacy, and perhaps a strategic outreach to regions with distinct cultural identities. As the Prime Minister continues to traverse the sacred landscapes, the symbolism behind his pilgrimages invites contemplation on the intricate interplay between religion and politics in the fabric of India’s unity.

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The post The Hidden Message In PM Modi’s Spiritual Sojourn In The South Ahead Of Ram Mandir Consecration appeared first on The Commune.

In a recent audit report, the Guruvayur Devaswom Board, which manages the Guruvayur Temple in Kerala, has come under the spotlight for investments in cooperative banks. The report reveals investments of around ₹17 lakhs in Perakkam and Erimayur primary cooperative banks, a violation of the board’s own guidelines that specify funds should be invested only in Urban Cooperative and District Cooperative banks.

Who gives permission to Pinarayi Vijayan’s communist government to invest offering from Guruvayurappan's devotees in a Co-operative Society?

That's even in a Co-operative Society that's already accused of loan fraud?

The Guruvayoor Devaswom Board invested a fixed amount of Rs… pic.twitter.com/RaWDOcvA3O

— महारथी-മഹാരഥി (@MahaRathii) October 19, 2023

Notably, the board has also invested a substantial sum of ₹117 crores in a foreign bank based in Singapore, which is not in compliance with its guidelines. The audit report raises questions about this investment and calls for a re-evaluation.

The Guruvayur Devaswom Board, which recently submitted its 2020-21 Audit Report to the High Court, disclosed that the money from two temples under its jurisdiction is deposited with cooperative banks. This revelation comes at a time when cooperative banks in Kerala are facing allegations of fraud and loss of depositors’ money.

The board’s defence for depositing funds in cooperative banks in specific areas, such as Perakkam and Erumayoor, is that no alternative banking options are available in these locations. However, these explanations have not quelled concerns, and a Thiruvananthapuram resident, Dr. Mahendra Kumar, filed a plea with the High Court seeking an inquiry into the fund diversions.

Dr. Mahendra Kumar’s plea also demanded that the Devaswom Board’s money be deposited only in nationalised banks and called for the publication of the audit report. Additionally, the plea sought a survey of land belonging to the Guruvayur Devaswom Board.

The High Court took note of these allegations and ordered the Guruvayur Devaswom Board to provide an affidavit detailing the places where the temple’s funds have been deposited. This development ignited public interest, with many, including the BJP State President, K. Surendran, emphasising the need for transparency and accountability in the management of the temple’s finances.

The concerns surrounding the Guruvayur Temple’s funds stem from reports of alleged financial mismanagement in Kerala’s cooperative banks, further fuelling suspicions that temple funds may have been diverted into such institutions. The Karuvannur Cooperative Bank fraud case has sent shockwaves across Kerala, with Enforcement Directorate (ED) officers making arrests and allegations of a massive financial scandal involving multiple individuals and significant sums.

As investigations unfold, the Guruvayur Devaswom Board faces mounting scrutiny, and the outcome of the High Court’s investigation will shed light on how the Devaswom Board is handling the temple’s considerable wealth.

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The post Guruvayur Devaswom Board’s Investments Under Scrutiny For Violation Of Guidelines appeared first on The Commune.