Criticism for singing Christian devotional songs in temple; Temple committee urges not to disturb communal harmony by creating controversies

KOTTAYAM: The temple renovation committee of Vembinkulangara Sree Mahavishnu Temple has responded to the criticism raised against the Nandagovindam Bhajans team for singing a Christian devotional song at the temple. The committee clarified that the programme was conducted with the cooperation of all sections of the local community and passes to watch the event were distributed to houses across all religions. The convenor shared the committee’s stand through the temple’s Facebook page. He stated that people of all religions actively cooperate in all programmes conducted at the temple and urged that the communal harmony of the village should not be disrupted.

‘All people in this locality, regardless of religion, came together to organize this program. This is the home ground of Nandagovindam; they grew up here. Naveen studied here from LKG in the local church school, taught by teachers from all communities. Therefore, both Hindus and Christians equally supported and attended the programme. Due to the large crowd, entry was regulated through free passes, which were distributed to every house without any discrimination. Everyone came and enjoyed the program.

People of all religions participate every event organized in this temple. During the Desavilakku, Christians also light lamps along with us. When the Thalappoli procession passes, they light lamps on the roadside every year. That is the tradition and unity of this place. When such a programme took place, teachers, friends, classmates, and families who knew Naveen were all present. From our perspective, we saw nothing wrong in singing such a song. We do not consider it a serious offense. People in this village live in great harmony. We only request that no one should create controversy and destroy the existing unity,’ the committee stated.

K P Sasikala, chief patron of Hindu Aikya Vedi Kerala, had earlier criticized the performance by Nandagovindam Bhajans for singing a Christian devotional song in the temple. The song “Ee Paradevanaho” was performed at the Vembinkulangara Sree Mahavishnu Temple in Kottayam. Sasikala wrote on Facebook that even a strong branch will break if it cuts itself. She also mocked the act by saying, “Chicken masala is good, but it shouldn’t be added to payasam.

Meantime, many have come forward praising Nandagovindam Bhajans for singing the Christian devotional song, highlighting communal harmony and expressing appreciation through comments.