Amid so much of brouhaha
On the political front in India
Here's a real Good News-
From the God's own country.
Travancore Devaswom Board-
Which manages the affairs of
Sabarimala Temple-
(Shrine of Lord Ayyappa who is
Considered eternal celibate)
Has accepted the verdict of SC-
They're not against the entry
Of women of any age group.
Antiquated religious practices
Which promote discrimination
Against women or dalit devotees
Have no place in our society.
Its a pleasure receiving a very positive feedback on the poem. Thanks a lot.
An example of an enlightened policy change. Is it a Hindu temple I wonder?
Yes, a Hindu temple at Sabarimala in the Southern most state of Kerala in India. Lord Ayyapa is the Presiding Deity at this temple. Devotees have to observe austerity and penance before going there for worship.
Thank you so very much for this poem on Sabarimala. Hope wisdom dawns on the so called authorities to rise above all differences. A sure 100 for this poem
Geeta ji, I think religious beliefs and practices should be subjected to a critical review from time to time. I was taken aback when somebody blamed SC hearing (on Sabarimala case) for the Kerala floods and deluge. Thanks for your kind words.
Thanks, Richard. Religious practices should accommodate all logical and pragmatic views which reflect the ethos of contemporary times.
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
You are absolutely right! Ayyappa's celibacy will not be broken if ladies are allowed admission in Sabarimala! I don't think any God should discriminate women! In a an educated society, people should be free of narrow and petty concerns. So glad that you have spoken up your mind at a time when there is a lot emotional uproar on this issue from those Hindu's who refuse to come out of a very orthodox mould.
You are right Ma'am. Though, an ardent devotee would not budge an inch. Womwn and dalits have been at the receiving end since ages. During the rule of Travancore kings in eighteenth century, young dalit women were subjected to inhuman treatment at the hands of state officials,