Hindu Temples in Tamil Countries are unique.
Since the time the major temples in Sri Rangam, Madurai and other places were invaded by Malik Kafur in 14th century- a Hindu Empire formed at Modern Day Hampi, reconstructed the destructed temples, expanded the other temples, built new temples.
These temples were under close vigilance of the Kings/ Emperors and stood tall as an economic power houses.
Many of these emperors were so much religious, they took food only after their Gods were fed.
To cite an example for 1, In Tirupati, you hear the Sri Vari Ghanta Naadham or Bell Sound at Night 7.30 to 7.50 pm.
The bell sound (Sri Vari Ghanta Naadham) has a long history dating back to 1592.
Venkatadri Raya of Vijayanagara Empire wanted to shift his capital from Penukonda to Tirumala so that he can worship the deity daily in his temple.
(Little description about the emperor -Venkatadri Raya a.k.a Venkata II 1585-1616 : His reign of three decades saw a revival of the strength and prosperity of the empire, after the empires humiliating defeat at Talikota in 1565. He dealt successfully with the deccan sultans of Bijapur and Golkonda, the internal disorders, promoting economic revival in the country.)
But Lord Venkateswara had other plans.
While discussing his pet project at Tirupati Temple, an eagle came down and taken away his turban (mistaken as flesh). His soldiers followed the eagle to bring back his turban. The eagle finally dropped it in Chandragiri, few Kms away from temple, which became Emperor's place for his pet project.
He shifted his capital to Chandragiri in 1592. He used to take dinner only after feeding ritual of the God is completed. To inform him of the completion of the feeding ritual(neyvedyam) of the Lord, the bell is ring.
This is continuing since then at 19.30 pm till 19.50 pm. The bell sound, called Sri Vari Ghanta Naadham being telecasted in SVBC channel from the temple, live, everyday. One may tune to hear it.
To cite another example,
Tirumalai Naicker (b 1589) (r 1623–1654), shifted his capital strategically from Tiruchirappalli to Madurai in 1634, after getting endorsement in his dream from God Meenakshi.
Being a Sri Vaishnavite, in order to maintain social harmony among Shaivites and Vaishnavites, he initiated Meenakshi Sundareswar Marriage and Kallazhager festival at Madurai which is still being celebrated annually.
He revived and encouraged, the second phase of Kula Deivam worship.
After shifting his capital to Madurai, he took breakfast only after morning ritual at Srivilliputtur Andal Thayar is over.
After Emperor, King - this third example is of a Polygar who was hung to death in a tamarind tree by the British.
Veera Pandiya Kattabomman (1760–1799), a Polygar of Panchalan Kurichi, took the food only after the neyvedyam of Tiruchendur Senthil Andavar was completed. His ancestors were given the responsibility to vigil after Dutch Invasion of Tiruchendur temple in 1650.
The point I am trying to convey is that Temples in TN, occupied all the events of celebration and sorrows of the Tamils in their life and were under close watch of Rulers in the past and going by the tradition, are now with the Government.
The Hindu Rulers from 13–18 th century marked the difference between the North India and the Tamil Country. Yes. We have Sethu Pathis, who swered that their prime duty is to serve the pilgrims and to look after Rameswaram Temple.
Even these Hindu Emperors/ Kings spread Murugan worship to their conquered territories in South East Asia in Buddhist regions.
Yes, Administration of TN temple needs to be strengthened taking into suggestions from various stake holders.
End Note:
- I am not qualified to comment on Mosques / Churches. It is for them to decide.
Conclusion:
Proof of the pudding is in the eating:
Impressed by TN temples, recently BJP Government in Uttarakhand on the advise of our PM took Government control of major 51 Shrines last week, which include Badri, Kedar and many, despite the protest from VHP. As usual Tamil Nadu sets an example for other states to follow.
Stone Inscription: There is only one entity which represents all public —- the government. Nobody else can be trusted.
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