During a period when the INDIA alliance bloc is facing criticism due to Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin's controversial statement about "eradicating Sanatana Dharma," Karnataka Chief Minister has ignited a new controversy with his recent comments. He disclosed that he had a peculiar experience in a Kerala temple when he was asked to remove his shirt before entering.
"Once, during a visit to a temple in Kerala, I was instructed to remove my shirt before entering. I chose not to enter the temple and conveyed my intention to offer my prayers from outside. It struck me as an inhumane practice, especially since they did not instruct everyone to shed their shirts, only a select few. In the eyes of God, every individual is equal," Siddaramaiah remarked. These remarks were made by the Congress leader during an event held in Bengaluru to commemorate the 169th birth anniversary of Narayana Guru, a prominent social reformer.
In various South Indian temples, it is customary for men to enter the temple premises while wearing an 'angavastra,' a shawl-like garment draped over the shoulder.
