High Court bans construction of commercial complex near Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswarar Temple
The Madras High Court has issued a ban on the construction of a commercial complex near the Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswarar Temple, in order to protect the sacred Rajagopuram from being obstructed. The 1,000-year-old temple is an important pilgrimage site for devotees, who worship the Rajagopuram from afar as part of the ‘Gopura Darshanam, Kodi Puniyam’ ritual.
The issue arose when it was discovered that a new two-storey commercial complex was being constructed in the area adjacent to the 11-foot earthworks opposite the East Rajagopuram of the temple. This construction would have obstructed the view of the Rajagopuram, which can be seen from up to 20 km away.
The existing shops opposite the Rajagopuram were going to be demolished to make way for the 6,500 square feet, 151 shops, up to 40 feet high apartment building. If this construction were to be completed, the front of the tower would have been hidden from view, depriving devotees of the opportunity to worship from afar.
In response to an appeal filed in the Madras High Court, the judges investigated the matter and issued a restraining order, banning the construction of the commercial complex in front of the Rajagopuram. The order stipulated that no work should be carried out, and it came into effect immediately upon issuance.
The temple administration has not released any details or comments on the matter, but the ban on construction is a relief for devotees who wish to continue worshiping the sacred Rajagopuram.