Controversy Erupts Over Sree Narayana Guru's Legacy

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan warns against efforts to misrepresent sage Sree Narayana Guru as a proponent of Sanatana Dharma. Vijayan asserts that Guru championed a new 'humanistic dharma' challenging caste-based order. The remarks sparked criticism from the BJP, accusing Vijayan of disrespecting Sanatana Dharma and its followers.

In a statement that has ignited significant debate, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday warned against any mischaracterization of Sree Narayana Guru, a revered social reformer, as a supporter of Sanatana Dharma. Vijayan asserted that Guru, known for his advocacy of 'one caste, one religion, and one God for people', had crafted a new 'humanistic dharma' that stands against caste-based hierarchies.

Speaking at a pilgrimage conference in Sivagiri, Vijayan described efforts to place Guru within the confines of Sanatana Dharma as a severe injustice to his legacy. He emphasized that Guru's ascetic life fundamentally challenged the caste-oriented chaturvarnya system, a standpoint that should not be diluted or distorted.

The Chief Minister's remarks have sparked a sharp backlash from the BJP, with accusations of disrespect towards Sanatana Dharma. Senior BJP leader V Muraleedharan condemned the speech, suggesting it aligned with anti-Sanatana sentiments and challenged faith practices in Kerala under Vijayan's administration.

(With inputs from agencies.)