MADURAI (March 2, 2026): In a move laden with political and cultural significance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered prayers at the Arulmigu Subrahmanya Swamy Temple in Tirupparankundram on Sunday. Arriving under massive security, the PM was accorded traditional ‘purna-kumbha’ honors. Dressed in a traditional dhoti and kurta, he performed rituals and prayed for national prosperity.
The visit is seen as a direct response to the ongoing dispute over lighting the ‘Karthigai Deepam’ on the hilltop. Following a Madras High Court order by Justice G.R. Swaminathan in favor of the devotees, the DMK-led government faced criticism for allegedly resisting the ritual. The INDIA bloc’s recent attempt to move an impeachment motion against Justice Swaminathan has further intensified the clash, with PM Modi calling out the DMK’s “minority appeasement” policies.
Adding an emotional dimension to the visit, PM Modi met the family of Poornachandran, a devotee who died by self-immolation during the lamp-lighting row. He slammed the state government for being “insensitive” and stated that “no matter what the DMK does, the truth and the devotees of Lord Murugan will win”.
Beyond religious visits, the Prime Minister addressed a massive rally and launched projects worth over ₹4,400 crore. Key announcements included:
Highway Upgrades: Laying foundation stones for the four-laning of NH-332A (Marakkanam-Puducherry) and NH-87 (Paramakudi-Ramanathapuram).
Rail Connectivity: Dedicating eight redeveloped railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Scheme and the Chennai Beach–Egmore fourth line.
Broadcasting: Inaugurating new Akashvani FM relay transmitters in Kumbakonam, Yercaud, and Vellore.
With the 2026 Assembly elections approaching, PM Modi’s visit signals the BJP’s intent to challenge the DMK’s ideological narrative by championing Lord Murugan as a symbol of Tamil identity. (PIB & Other News)
For more details: Navamalayalam.com