Daijiworld Media Network – Puttur (EP/RJP)

Sullia, Dec 15: Number of devotees took part in Yede Snana at famous Kukke Subramanya temple on Tuesday afternoon. Heavy security arrangements were made to prevent any trouble during the rituals.

The district administration in a communication has said that Yede Snana can be performed in place of Made Snana during Shashti festivals this year at Subramanya temple in the district. Made Snana which has been performed for centuries is a matter of dispute for past some years. Several cases have been filed in High Court as well Supreme Court regarding the controversial ritual.

Following opposition and complaints received from heads of Maths and progressive thinkers, the government had assured in both houses of Legislature that the system of Made Snana will be abolished. But as there are groups which support and oppose the system, it could not be banned completely.

Veerabhadra Chennamalla Swamiji and others had submitted a public interest petition to the state high court requesting for the ban. The state government in response, had submitted an affidavit to the court that as an alternative to Made Snana, the people will be allowed to perform Yede Snana, a practice where devotees are allowed to roll themselves on the leaves where the offerings to the deities are spread. The High court accepting the writ petition gave its permission to Yede Snana instead of Made Snana on condition that there should be no discrimination based on religion, caste, creed or gender in the temples.

Bhaskar Bendodi, president of Tribal welfare forum submitted a petition to the Supreme Court challenging the verdict of the High court. The Supreme Court however also has permitted Yede Snana instead of Made Snana.

The Deputy Commissioner has made it clear that devotees are free to perform Yede Snana during this year’s Champa Shashti festivals to be held on December 15, 16 and 17.