In a significant order safeguarding religious traditions, the Supreme Court on Thursday directed that the Udayasthamana Pooja at Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple in Kerala must be held on Vrishchikam Ekadasi (December 1, 2025) as per age-old customs. The court made it clear that administrative inconvenience cannot override the faith of devotees.
Background
The appeal arose after the Guruvayur Devaswom Managing Committee, with the Thantri’s consent, had stopped the special Udayasthamana Pooja on Vrishchikam Ekadasi in 2024, citing overcrowding and logistical issues. The petitioners, led by P.C. Hary, approached the apex court arguing that the decision violated centuries-old temple traditions.
During the hearing, senior advocates C.S. Vaidyanathan, Guru Krishna Kumar, and K. Parameshwar represented the petitioners, while the temple management was defended by senior counsel Rakesh Dwivedi and others.
Court's Observations
The Bench of Justice J.K. Maheshwari and Justice Vijay Bishnoi observed that rituals performed for centuries gain deep spiritual significance and cannot be casually altered.
“The faith of the worshippers at large ought not to be put aside on the anvil of managerial and administrative concerns,” the Bench remarked, emphasizing that religious practices should be given precedence and respect.
The court also pointed out that inconvenience to the public on special occasions cannot be a valid reason to discontinue or alter essential rituals.
"On auspicious days like Vrishchikam Ekadasi, such poojas enhance the divinity of the deity," the judges added.
Decision
Granting interim relief, the court directed that Udayasthamana Pooja be performed this year exactly as per traditional practice. The Bench allowed the Thantri to hold an additional ceremony on December 2, 2025, if deemed necessary.
The matter will next be heard in March 2026, after both sides file their remaining pleadings. For now, the apex court’s order ensures that the centuries-old spiritual rhythm of Guruvayur temple will continue unbroken on Vrishchikam Ekadasi.
Case Title:- PC Hary v. Guruvayoor Devaswom Managing Committee
