Madras High Court rules Podhu Dikshidars maladministered Chidambaram Sabanayagar Temple; appoints Board of Management

The Chidambaram Sabanayagar Temple, a historic shrine in Tamil Nadu, attracts thousands of devotees each year and holds deep cultural significance for the region. Traditionally, the temple’s administration was overseen by the Podhu Dikshidar community, a group that has managed rituals, finances and maintenance for generations. Over recent years, concerns were raised about irregularities in fund handling, neglect of maintenance work, and lack of transparency in decision‑making, prompting several petitioners to approach the court.

The Madras High Court, hearing the matter under Justices G. Jayachandran and E. Manoharan, examined evidence that suggested the managing committee failed to adhere to statutory guidelines and ignored the interests of the broader worshipper community. The judges noted that the alleged misadministration had led to deterioration of temple facilities and eroded trust among devotees. In response, the court directed that an independent management structure be established to restore proper governance.

The court’s order appoints retired High Court judges V. Bharathidasan and R. Suresh Kumar as chair and co‑chair of a newly formed Board of Management. Their mandate includes overseeing financial audits, supervising renovation projects, and ensuring that religious activities resume without interruption. The decision is expected to bring greater accountability and may serve as a reference point for other temples facing similar governance challenges across India.