As Chikkamagaluru gears up for the annual Datta Jayanti festivities, Hindu activists have launched a vigorous campaign demanding that Datta Peeta be recognized exclusively as a Hindu shrine. The movement, spearheaded by prominent Hindu organizations, has gained significant momentum during this year's celebrations.
Major Organizations Lead the Movement
The Datta Jayanti celebrations organized by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Bajrang Dal, and Sri Rama Sene officially commenced on Wednesday, drawing hundreds of participants. The district administration has been actively preparing for the event, ensuring proper arrangements are in place.
According to activists leading the movement, Datta Peeta has a historical legacy spanning thousands of years and rightfully belongs to the Hindu community. They maintain a clear distinction between Datta Peeta and the nearby Baba Budan Dargah, asserting they are separate entities with different religious significance.
Political and Organizational Support
The movement received substantial political backing with the participation of MLC CT Ravi and Sri Rama Sene founder Pramod Muthalik. Both leaders, along with hundreds of activists, wore Datta Mala during a puja performed for Dattatreya Swami at the Kamadhenu Ganapati Temple, demonstrating their solidarity with the cause.
Pramod Muthalik declared, "We are united in the fight for Datta Peeta. Our objective is clear - to establish it as a complete Hindu shrine. More than 4,000 activists from Sri Rama Sene alone will participate in this movement."
The veteran activist emphasized that Datta Peeta should be entirely designated as a Hindu shrine, attributing the delay in resolution to ongoing court proceedings and political interference. He proposed that artificial graves be relocated and the site fully transferred to Hindu management.
Historical Claims and Legal Framework
CT Ravi reinforced the historical significance of the site, stating that Datta Peeta's history extends back thousands of years. He highlighted Muthalik's renewed involvement in the struggle, noting that his participation has strengthened the movement.
"Datta Peeta is distinct from Baba Budan Dargah, and this truth must be communicated effectively," Ravi asserted. "We recommend forming a fact-finding committee led by a current high court judge to examine the evidence and establish the truth."
Ravi also referenced the Supreme Court's previous decision, noting that a cabinet subcommittee has already been established and religious rituals implemented. He criticized any obstruction of these arrangements as unjust and emphasized the district administration's responsibility to ensure Datta Jayanti celebrations proceed without hindrance.
Activist Dakshath echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that Hindus have been struggling persistently for Datta Peeta and urging prompt resolution of the issue. The collective voice of the movement grows stronger as celebrations continue, with participants determined to see their demands addressed.
