HR&CE Department targets 4,000 temple consecrations by 2026 

The Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department is racing to complete 4,000 temple consecrations by 2026.

The 3503^rd Kumbhabhishekam (Kudamuzhukku in Tamil) was held on August 29, on which day 51 temples were consecrated. By September 14, at least 181 would be added to the list.

Among the 3503 temples, 543 were dedicated to Perumal, 493 to Lord Ganesha, 1045 to Amman, 738 to Easwaran, 157 to Ayyanar, and 133 to Lord Muruga.

“Temples that have not conducted the Kudamuzhukku in a long time are given priority. Among the 507 temples that are 1000 years and require restoration, we have performed the consecration for 68 temples so far. The State government has given a grant of ₹425 crore for these. Donors have contributed a total of ₹160 crore, and temple funds of ₹80 crore have been spent on these,” HR&CE Minister P.K. Sekarbabu said.  

“These events, which are usually held once in 12 years, increase the number of devotees visiting these temples. For instance, after the recent Kudamuzhukku at the Sri Subramanyaswami temple in Thiruchendur, apart from the day of the ceremony, nearly 20 lakh persons have visited the temple in the last 48-50 days,” he said.