The Madras High Court on January 6, 2026, ruled that the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony at Thiruparankundram hill near Madurai can continue. The court upheld the earlier order allowing devotees to light the Karthigai Deepam on an ancient stone pillar called the “Deepathoon.”
The case had been in court for months. Multiple parties, including the Tamil Nadu government, temple authorities, and local groups, had appealed against the single judge’s order from late 2025. They questioned whether lighting the lamp on the pillar was a long-standing tradition and whether an individual could claim a legal right to do so.
The Division Bench, led by Justices G. Jayachandran and K.K. Ramakrishnan, said there was no legal reason to stop the ritual. The judges noted that lighting a lamp on a high pillar is an old custom, and devotees should be allowed to continue the practice.
At the same time, the court set rules to protect the ancient pillar and maintain safety. No members of the public can join the ceremony. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will ensure the pillar is not damaged, and the district collector will supervise the event to make sure everything is peaceful and follows the court’s instructions.
The Thiruparankundram Deepam has been a matter of debate in Tamil Nadu, with concerns about heritage protection and public safety. The judgment balances respecting tradition with protecting the historical site and maintaining order.
This verdict brings clarity after months of protests, legal filings, and discussions in the state. Devotees can now legally perform the lamp-lighting ritual under court supervision, marking a significant decision for religious customs at Thiruparankundram.
The ruling is seen as an important example of how courts can allow cultural and religious practices to continue while safeguarding ancient monuments and ensuring public safety.
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