Decision on allowing Non Hindus at temple 'Ottupura' put on

Days after permitting entry of Non-Hindus to the 'oottupura' (temple dining hall) attached to the famous Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple, temple authorities today decided to keep it on hold, apparently following opposition.

According to temple sources, the temple tantri (Head Priest) and a section of devotees had raised objections to the managing committee's decision of April 18 following which it was decided to keep the matter on hold.

The committee, which met here today, also decided not to implement its decision to lift restrictions on dress code imposed at the dining hall.

The committee had on April 18 allowed devotees to wear shirts, pants and footwear at the oottupura.

The sources said since the 'devaprashanam' (astrological examination to know the divine will) was due to be held in another six months, the committee felt that this matter also would be taken up.

This was a matter which required the consensus of all"and the temple authorities did not want to have any controversy over the matter, the sources said.

The tantri had given a letter to the managing committee stating that the 'Prasada Oottu', the delicious temple feast, has to be conducted in the same manner as it was being done earlier.

The decision had received support from various quarters and objections from certain sections, sources said.

In a major decision, the management of the temple, where non-Hindus are barred from offering worship, had opened the portals of its oottupura to everyone, cutting across religion.

Hundreds of devotees from and outside the state have prasada oottu every day at the oottupura of the centuries-old shrine.