The 5 January meeting in Vijayawada, organised by the right-wing group, is expected to have a profound impact on Andhra politics. The event drew an estimated three to four lakh people, making it one of the largest religio-political gatherings in the state’s recent history.
Published Jan 13, 2025 | 5:56 PM ⚊ Updated Jan 14, 2025 | 1:33 PM
The event drew an estimated three to four lakh people. (X)
The Haindava Sankharavam, organised by the right-wing Hindu nationalist organisation Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) on 5 January at Kesarapalli in Vijayawada, is likely to have profound implications for Andhra Pradesh politics.
The key agenda of the gathering was a demand for autonomy for Hindu temples across India by removing government control through the Endowments Department. The meeting concluded with a 10-point demand focusing on “reclaiming control over Hindu temples” from unauthorised elements and restoring control to practising Hindus.
The event drew an estimated three to four lakh people, with the venue, dominated by saffron flags and attire, making it one of the largest religio-political gatherings in the state’s recent history.
The turnout far exceeded VHP leaders’ expectations, who view it as a major success and a sign of a religious renaissance. (X)
Andhra Pradesh, historically known for separating religion and politics, may be witnessing a shift in this dynamic. The turnout far exceeded VHP leaders’ expectations, who view it as a major success and a sign of a religious renaissance. They are convinced that the meeting has laid a solid foundation for their nationwide campaign to “awaken Hindus.”
Former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP from Narsapuram constituency Gokaraju Ganga Raju chaired the event, which featured speeches by prominent Hindutva figures, spiritual leaders, and service organisation representatives.
Speakers included Govinda Giri Maharaj of the Rama Janmabhoomi Trust, Kamalananda Bharati of the Bhuvaneshwari Peetham, VHP President Ashok Kumar, and general secretary Milind Parande. Ganapati Sachidananda Swamy of Mysuru’s Avadhoota Datta Peetham and former Andhra Pradesh chief secretary LV Subrahmanyam were also present.
The Haindava Sankharavam concluded with the following demands:
Several speakers addressed what they described as “challenges facing Hinduism.” Tridandi Chinna Jeeyar Swamy called for reclaiming temple properties taken over by unauthorised individuals.
Similarly, along the lines of the event, BJP state president and Rajahmundry MP D Purandeswari, who was present at the event, alleged that Hinduism had faced repeated attacks in the state over the past five years. She also claimed that films were beginning to “humiliate” the religion.
Film lyricist Ananta Sriram demanded a ban on movies that insult Hinduism. Kamalananda Bharati condemned the encroachment of temple lands, attacks on priests, and thefts from Hundi (temple donation boxes).
Meanwhile, Gangaraju called for temple management to be fully handed over to Hindus and the end of government control.
(Edited by Dese Gowda)
