Thirupparankundram Deepam Controversy Crucial Court Hearing Today

The annual Karthigai Deepam festival at the Thirupparankundram Subramaniya Swamy Temple—one of the most sacred among the six abodes of Lord Murugan—has sparked a major legal dispute this year. Traditionally, the Deepam is lit near the Uchi Pillaiyar Temple on the hilltop. However, a petition by Ram Ravikumar demanded that the Deepam be lit at the ancient Deepam Pillar, citing its historical and spiritual importance.

The Tamil Nadu government opposed the request, stating that the location is close to a Dargah and may pose security concerns. The case reached the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court, where Justice G.R. Swaminathan ruled clearly that the Deepam must be lit at the Deepam Pillar.

Despite this order, the Deepam was lit at the usual location near Uchi Pillaiyar, prompting the petitioner to file a contempt case. During the hearing, the court observed that with CISF protection in place, the petitioner himself could carry and light the Deepam at the designated spot. The court directed the Madurai Police to provide adequate security.

Following this, devotees gathered in large numbers, expecting the court’s order to be executed. However, the State Government announced it would file an appeal against the single-judge order and denied permission. The appeal was filed in the Supreme Court, but the case has not yet been listed for hearing.

Meanwhile, the contempt petition filed against the Madurai District Collector, City Police Commissioner, and temple authorities for failing to implement the court order is scheduled for hearing today. Devotees, the government, and temple administrators are closely watching to see which direction the High Court’s ruling will take.