Gauri.S, BBA LLB (H), Amity Law School, Noida
ABSTRACT
The Sabarimala temple, a major Hindu pilgrimage center in Kerala, India, celebrates Lord Ayyappa and has attracted much controversy for its tradition prohibiting the entry of women of menstruating age (10 to 50 years). The present paper investigates the origins of the custom and highlights the deity's celibate nature and certain peculiar traditions attached to the temple. It delves into the legal controversies arising out of the case brought up by the Indian Young Lawyers Association (2018), the consequent landmark judgment of the Supreme Court, and the minority opinion underscoring the necessity to protect religious practices. The assertion emphasizes the importance of respecting various styles of worship in a more balanced manner with constitutional objectives while distinguishing the Sabarimala tradition from prohibitive practices. The explicit call to allow the continuation of this age- old custom rests its case on understanding and dialogue to enlighten the misconceptions surrounding these practices and the continuation of the sacredness of the temple. the article concludes with reflections on some of the issues that stem from ensuring the survival of religious traditions within a pluralist society, while at the same time committing to modern constitutional values.
Keywords: Sabarimala, Religious traditions, Gender Equality, Supreme Court ruling, Constitutional Rights.
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