Entry of non-Hindus to Guruvayur Oottupura: decision on hold

Oottupura (dining hall) of the Sree Krishna Temple at Guruvayur. Photo: Manorama

Guruvayur: After certain sections opposed the entry of non-Hindus to the Oottupura (dining hall) of the Sree Krishna Temple at Guruvayur, the authorities have decided to keep it on hold.

According to temple sources, the tantri (head priest) and a section of devotees had raised objections to the managing committee's decision of April 18 to allow devotees to wear shirts, pants and footwear at the Oottupura.

This was a matter which required the consensus of all and the temple authorities did not want to have any controversy over the matter, the sources said.

The committee, which met here on Tuesday, also decided not to implement its decision to lift restrictions on dress code imposed at the dining hall.

Since the Devaprashanam (astrological examination to know the divine will) was due to be held in another six months, the committee said this matter also would be taken up.

The tantri had given a letter to the managing committee stating that the Prasada oottu, the delicious temple feast, has to be conducted in the same manner as it was being done earlier.

The decision had received support from various quarters and objections from certain sections, sources said.

In a major decision, the management of the temple, where non-Hindus are barred from offering worship, had opened the portals of its Oottupura to everyone, cutting across religion.

Hundreds of devotees from and outside the state have Prasada oottu every day at the Oottupura of the centuries-old shrine.

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