Mangaluru: The Ayyappa Seva Samiti, Mangaluru has organised a massive awareness meeting at Kadri ground, under the title of “Save Sabarimala” and urged the Supreme court to review its verdict, which has allowed women of all age group to enter Sabarimala temple, on Tuesday, October 9.
Addressing the protest meeting, Vishwa Hindu Parishat South Region Working President Prof. M B Puranik said, “Sabarimala temple has been observing its own customs and traditions, which cannot be changed all of a sudden. Hence, Supreme Court should review its verdict as it is the religious sentiment of Hindu people.”
RSS leader Prakash P S while addressing the gathering said there is no restriction to the women to enter the temple. They will be allowed as per the traditions of the temple. If the temple has put some restrictions, it’s the customs and traditions which should not be violated. Those who approached the court seeking permission to allow women of all age groups to the Sabarimala temple, seem to question the presence of God. As it is the question of our religious sentiments, we will not accept the verdict. Hence, a review petition should be filed against the Supreme Court verdict”, he said.
An elderly woman Seethamma, a devotee of Ayyappa Swamy asked the public to unite in order to safeguard the Hindu culture and tradition. “If women of all age groups will be allowed to enter the temple, the male devotees’ penance will be disturbed”, she said.
Prior to this, there was a bhajan programme, in which thousands of Ayyappa devotees participated. Later, a signature campaign was also launched, urging to review the verdict. After the programme, a mass prayer was offered at Kadri temple.
Vishwa Hindu Parishat District President Jagadish Shenava, Hindu Jagaran Vedike District President Kishor, Puttur Vivekananda College Professor Rohinaksha Shirlalu, entrepreneur Ganesh Shetty, Ayyappa devotees Sheshappa Guruswamy and Vishwanatha Guruswamy among others were present.
