A Convention Was An Invention. Poem by Rm. Shanmugam Chettiar

Religion is a matter of faith
And faith is based and built on beliefs,
Which cannot be questioned by rationalists
Nor is the need to answer such queries

Can religious practices be unjust
And beyond the constitutional says?
Can it be practised with vested interests?
Can tradition be insulated from changes?

Law has clashed with traditions in the past.
Satiwas abolished against protests.
Dalits' entrance to temples was granted
Against stiff opposition of high castes.

The Hindu Code Bill and the Hindu Marriage Act
Had been passed amongst vehement protests.
The ban on woman's entry was lifted
To the Hajji Ali Mosque though opposed.

Non entry to Sabarimals shrine
Of women of all ages isn't age old.
Maharani of Travancore (1948)visited it.
The ex-minister Jayamala (1986)and others too;

Why must then the Apex Court's order be Defied and fought by the Kerala Hindus
Who are the custodians of Ayappa tradition?
Every convention was an invention.
10.12.2018