In a critical statement made on August 24, 2025, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar accused Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his Tamil Nadu counterpart MK Stalin of dishonoring the Hindu faith and the sacred rituals of Sabarimala, specifically in regards to the upcoming global Ayyappa Sangamam event in Pampa, Kerala, in September.
Chandrasekhar’s remarks come ahead of the grand religious gathering at the famous Sabarimala temple, which is considered one of the most significant pilgrimage sites for Hindus. The BJP leader asserted that the actions of Vijayan and Stalin, particularly in their handling of Sabarimala-related issues, could be seen as a political drama before the 2026 state elections.
He expressed concern over their perceived lack of respect for the Hindu faith, emphasizing the importance of adhering to traditional values and upholding religious sanctity during such important events. The BJP leader called upon both leaders to apologize for any actions that may have dishonored the Hindu community before participating in the Sabarimala event.
It is noteworthy that Chandrasekhar has also been critical of Tamil Nadu’s Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, particularly for his past controversial remarks about Sanatan Dharma. On multiple occasions, Chandrasekhar labeled the deputy chief minister as “useless.”
The global Ayyappa Sangamam event is expected to draw millions of devotees from around the world and is organized by the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), which administers Sabarimala Temple. The event aims to promote unity, peace, and spiritual growth among Hindus worldwide.
Both the Kerala and Tamil Nadu governments have been asked for comments regarding Chandrasekhar’s statements, but no official response has been provided as of yet.
