Congress Leader Rebuts KP Sasikala Over Hymn Controversy, Shares Video of ‘Pallikettu’ at Church Event

Congress leader Jinto John has responded strongly to KP Sasikala’s criticism regarding the singing of hymns at the Nandagovindam Bhajans. The controversy began after Sasikala allegedly demanded that Christian songs should not be performed in temples. In a sharp rebuttal, John shared a video on social media showing a devotional song from the Sabarimala pilgrimage, “Pallikettu Sabarimalaikku,” being sung at a church event.

In his social media post, John declared, “We will sing ‘Pallikettu’ in church courtyards. Those who harbor such divisive thoughts need to quiet down. Kerala has the anti-venom of secularism. This land has not yet become a place where the Sangh Parivar can spread its hood.”

Anish Varikkannamala, the Congress Pathanamthitta district vice-president, also addressed the ongoing controversy. He expressed deep sadness over the criticism directed at the Nandagovindam Bhajans, stating that as a devout Hindu, he finds the controversy misplaced. He argued that the essence of Sanatana Dharma is not compromised simply because a hymn about Christ is sung during a temple event.

“Those behind this controversy possess a narrow-minded perspective that fails to understand the depth of Hindu belief and dharma,” Varikkannamala said. He further emphasized that India is the land of Swami Vivekananda, who encouraged Christian missionaries to preach Christ’s message with dedication, famously writing to his disciples from Chicago, “I am here among the children of the Son of Mary.”

Varikkannamala also highlighted the long-standing tradition of inter-religious harmony in Kerala, noting that many temple festival rituals have historically been intertwined with local mosques and churches. He pointed out that even Prime Minister Narendra Modi has participated in prayers at churches during Christmas without harming Hindu sentiments or Christian faith. He urged the public not to disturb communal harmony through unnecessary controversies, reminding everyone that all religions ultimately teach love rather than hatred.