The Madras High Court has delivered a comprehensive judgment resolving the long-standing sectarian dispute between the Thengalai and Vadagalai groups at the Sri Devaraja Swamy Temple, Kancheepuram. Reaffirming over a century of precedent, the Court held that the Adhyapaka Mirasi rights—the ceremonial right to recite mantras and prabandhams

[01/12, 18:40] Sekarreporter: The Madras High Court has delivered a comprehensive judgment resolving the long-standing sectarian dispute between the Thengalai and Vadagalai groups at the Sri Devaraja Swamy Temple, Kancheepuram. Reaffirming over a century of precedent, the Court held that the Adhyapaka Mirasi rights—the ceremonial right to recite mantras and prabandhams during worship and temple processions—belong exclusively to the Thengalai sect residing in Kancheepuram. The bench reiterated that only the Thengalai mantram Sri Sailesa Dayapatram and their concluding Vazhi Thirunamam may be recited during puja, while Vadagalai members may participate only as worshippers and repeat what is sung by the mirasi holders. Several writ petitions and appeals filed by both sects were disposed of, with the Court refusing to alter established customs on the grounds of constitutional rights and directing temple authorities to ensure compliance with earlier decrees to maintain order and discipline during temple rituals.
[01/12, 18:40] Sekarreporter: 👍