Indic Collective@indiccollective
Today, @indiccollective completes another year in its journey of defending Indic civilizational values through law, advocacy, and on-ground initiatives. What began as a trust on 19th June 2017 for targeted legal interventions has grown into a steadfast voice for heritage protection, and the preservation of sacred traditions.
Over the past year, we have continued pushing back against unconstitutional interference in our temples and traditions through actions like:
- Securing a significant stay/interim order from the Madras High Court on the controversial pedestrian ramp at Sri Devarajaswamy Temple, Kanchipuram. In collaboration with @VUjjivana, we highlighted violations of Agamic traditions, damage to ancient inscriptions and heritage structures. The Court directed authorities to revisit approvals.
- Advanced key PILs on temple governance, including the case at Sri Parthasarathy Swamy Temple, Thiruvallikeni, filed by our President Shri @trramesh. The Madras High Court’s recent ruling emphasizes the need for duly appointed Boards of Trustees instead of indefinite government-appointed Executive Officers.
- Successfully obtained a stay order in the Madras High Court against the demolition of centuries-old Azhagapuri fort wall at Sri Kallazhagar Temple, Madurai.
- Continued advocacy on Thiruvannamalai temple issues, including opposition to unauthorised constructions and renovations near Raja Gopuram. Earlier interventions by Shri @trramesh led to the HR&CE committing in court not to proceed with a shopping complex beside the Gopuram.
- Challenged the diversion of temple funds and lands for non-temple purposes (including HR&CE offices, government colleges and investments in Power Finance Corporation) through PILs filed by Shri @trramesh
- Strongly opposed the Maharashtra Devasthan Inams Abolition (Draft) Act, 2026, through detailed constitutional analysis. We welcomed the government’s decision to withdraw the bill while urging broader reforms on temple land protection.
- Highlighted administrative lapses during the Brahmotsavam at Sri Devarajaswamy Temple, Kanchipuram, calling for accountability to protect the millenium old traditions and devotee experiences.
Beyond the courtroom, our monthly financial assistance to temple sevayats has expanded with the help of @sabhayogam, sustaining those who keep our traditions alive. These efforts reinforce our core mission: protecting temple properties and funds, safeguarding customs and practices, challenging state overreach.
A major highlight this year was our collaboration with the esteemed scholars of Kanchipuram in conducting a monthly Sadas (scholarly assembly) dedicated to Vedic philosophical discussions, held in loving memory of the revered Sri Krishna Tatacharya (popularly known as Thirupputkuzhi Swamy). This great acharya, a child prodigy, Mahamahopadhyaya title recipient and author of over 60 profound works tirelessly revived Kanchipuram temples post-Mughal invasions and safeguarded native traditions. Since Feb 2026, monthly gatherings are being held, aimed at fostering interest in shastras among young students and introducing them to the elegant style of vakyartha (discourse).
We also released our first e-book, “The Temple Paradox: How Secular Democracy Undermines Religious Freedom in India” (authored by Adv R Sundaramurti and designed by @SaumyaSinghP). This scholarly work rigorously examines the historical and contemporary challenges of state control over Hindu temples and presents a model legislation offering practical solutions for restoring autonomy to our sacred institutions.
We further collaborated with @VUjjivana on cultural initiatives, including the Purandara Aradhane - celebrating bhakti, music, and our living Haridasa tradition. As we mark this anniversary, we thank all supporters, donors, partners like @VUjjivana and @sabhayogam and well-wishers who stand with us. Your support plays a key role in our mission: indiccollective.org/support-us/
