What Happened?
Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan criticized attempts to associate social reformer Sree Narayana Guru with Sanatana Dharma, arguing it contradicts Guru's humanist and anti-caste message.
CM linked Sanatana Dharma to the caste-based Varnashrama Dharma, which, in his view, perpetuates caste-based oppression, especially against Dalits and backward classes in north India
The BJP accused the CM of insulting Sanatana Dharma, drawing parallels to Tamil Nadu's Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin.
KPCC President K. Sudhakaran supported the CM’s stance, but Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan disagreed, accusing the CM of giving control over Sanatana Dharma to the Sangh Parivar.
Why is Sivagiri Madhom Important?
Sree Narayana Guru founded the Sivagiri Madhom in the late 19th century and is a key social reformer who worked to dismantle casteism in Kerala.
In 1888, Guru consecrated a Siva idol for all castes to worship at Aruvippuram, challenging caste-based temple restrictions.
His famous “One Caste, One God, One Religion for mankind” philosophy promoted inclusivity and rejected caste distinctions.
Guru founded the SNDP Yogam in 1903 to uplift oppressed castes, although he later distanced himself from it due to its focus on Ezhava representation.
Today, Sivagiri is a prominent pilgrimage center, particularly for the Ezhava community.
Why Are Political Parties Eager to Court Sivagiri Seers?
The Ezhava community (23% of Kerala’s population) traditionally supports the CPI(M)-led Left Front (LDF), though some votes also go to the Congress-led UDF.
The BJP has increasingly targeted the Ezhava community to expand its influence in Kerala, which has remained largely resistant to the party’s ideology.
The LDF sees the BJP's outreach to the Ezhava community, particularly through the Sivagiri Madhom, as a threat to its traditional voter base.
After the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the CPI(M) attributed losses in the Ezhava vote to BJP’s growing appeal, especially after the BJP gained ground in traditionally Left strongholds.
What is Sivagiri Madhom’s Stance?
Sivagiri Madhom aims to remain neutral, allowing political leaders from all parties to address pilgrims during the annual pilgrimage.
Leaders like PM Modi, Amit Shah, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi have spoken at Sivagiri events, showcasing its broad political influence.
The Madhom has supported some Hindu religious issues, like the Ram Temple consecration, but also distanced itself from politically charged events like the Ayodhya consecration ceremony.
The Madhom advocates for social justice, criticizing caste-based dominance in temple priesthood, especially Brahmin control, and remains cautious about overt political alliances.
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