Legendary music composer Ilaiyaraaja’s recent visit to the renowned Andal Temple in Srivilliputhur, Tamil Nadu, has stirred a major controversy after temple authorities reportedly did not allow him near the Sanctum Sanctorum, citing temple protocol.

The Arulmigu Nachiyar (Andal) Thirukkovil is known for its architectural brilliance, with its iconic Rajagopuram prominently featured in Tamil Nadu’s state emblem. A video circulating on social media showed Ilaiyaraaja stepping back from the Artha Mandapam as priests entered the Sanctum Sanctorum, leading to widespread speculation that the music composer was denied access due to his Dalit origins.

The video reignited discussions about caste-based restrictions and selective entry into Tamil Nadu’s temple sanctums, particularly at a time when individuals from all castes are permitted to be trained as priests in the state.



However, the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department swiftly clarified the situation, stating that temple customs restrict access beyond the Artha Mandapam to only priests and heads of religious institutions (mutt heads).

“According to temple customs, devotees are not allowed beyond the Vasantha Mandapam and Artha Mandapam. Ilaiyaraaja was informed of this, and he respectfully offered his prayers from the entrance of the Artha Mandapam, while Sri Sri Sri Tridandi Srimannarayana Ramanuja Chinna Jeeyar Swami, who accompanied him, entered the sanctum and paid obeisance,” said K. Chelladurai, Joint Commissioner of the temple.

Ilaiyaraaja, who visited the temple ahead of the release of his new composition Divya Pasuram, was honored with Andal’s garlands and silk garments. He was given a guided tour of the temple by priests and the mutt head, and he reportedly expressed satisfaction with his visit.

Sri Sadagopa Ramanuja Jeeyar Swamigal, one of the temple’s head priests, also denied allegations of disrespect, stating, “Ilaiyaraaja was accorded full honours during his visit, and he offered prayers to Andal Thaayar with devotion.”

Addressing the speculation, Ilaiyaraaja issued a clear statement dismissing the rumors. “Something that never happened is being reported as if it did. I will never compromise my self-respect. Fans and the public should not believe such false claims,” he said.

The Arulmigu Nachiyar (Andal) Thirukkovil, located in Srivilliputhur, Virudhunagar district, is one of the 108 Divya Desams, sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

While the temple administration has reiterated that the customs were followed without any bias, the incident has sparked renewed debate about temple protocols and their alignment with contemporary values.

Source / Image Credit : deccanherald, Che_ಕೃಷ್ಣ, Asianet Newsable