As the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections approach, DMK leader and state minister Udhayanidhi Stalin has been making visits to various temples in different constituencies. These outings involve participating in religious ceremonies and engaging with temple priests, which some view as efforts to connect with Hindu voters during this key electoral period.
However, these actions have led to controversy. In one case, after a priest applied sacred ash to his forehead, Stalin was observed wiping it off with a towel shortly afterward. This has prompted discussions about whether such visits are genuine or primarily aimed at gaining political support.
Stalin has previously stated that Sanatana Dharma resembles a disease that needs to be eliminated. Social media users have shared images and videos of these incidents, contrasting them with his earlier comments.
In another visit to a temple dedicated to a goddess, Stalin removed vermilion from his forehead before departing, ensuring no religious markings remained visible.
During election seasons in Tamil Nadu, parties that have historically critiqued Sanatana Dharma, Hindu rituals, and traditions often engage in temple visits and adhere to auspicious timings suggested by Hindu priests when filing nominations. Observers describe this as a common tactic to appeal to voters.
This pattern continues in the current cycle, with similar behaviors noted among various parties. While some religious communities, such as Muslims and Christians, tend to vote in more unified ways, Hindu voters show greater diversity, leading to targeted outreach.
The late satirist and editor of Thuglak magazine, Cho Ramaswamy, once commented that DMK leaders, including Karunanidhi and M.K. Stalin, would perform extreme acts like carrying a kavadi for Lord Murugan if it helped secure votes.
Social media has amplified the discussion, with posts from users like Dr. Praveen Vijayakumar pointing out the contrast between Stalin’s past views on Sanatana Dharma and his recent temple activities.
Additionally, there are accounts of DMK candidates distributing free items, such as watches and mobile phones, in some areas, despite oversight from Election Commission teams and opposition groups.
In Ramanathapuram, Stalin reportedly declined a spear gift and accepted a Buddha statue instead, which also generated online attention.
Commentary on social platforms has referenced historical statements by DMK figures on topics like Lord Rama, the Vedas, and Sanatana Dharma, raising questions about changes in strategy during campaigns.
Manitha Neya Makkal Katchi leader Jawahirullah was also seen offering prayers at an Amman temple as part of his election efforts.
Analysts note that visiting places of worship across religions—temples, churches, mosques, and dargahs—has become a routine part of campaigning to reach diverse voter groups.
Public expressions of discontent have appeared, including banners stating that those who disrespect deities, make negative remarks, destroy temples, or demean women should not seek votes from devotees. Such views have been reported in southern Tamil Nadu regions.
Critics of the DMK’s handling of temple affairs point to issues like poor conditions and management, citing comments from former Idol Wing IG Pon Manickavel. Social media posts have highlighted low salaries for temple priests at 6,000 rupees per month, compared to higher pay for HR&CE department officials who rarely visit.
Another element in the campaigns is the use of astrology and rituals. Despite promoting rationalism, leaders from multiple parties consult astrologers for advice on seat selection, filing times, and victory prospects, and conduct ceremonies like yagnas. Astrologers report frequent inquiries about favorable periods for launching campaigns.
