When on August 14, 2021, chief minister of Tamil Nadu MK Stalin appointed 23 non-Brahmin archaka, or priests, to various temples across the state, it was seen as a radical move. It seemed Stalin was realising a dream that had been birthed in the 1970s, when politician and social activist EV Ramaswami, popularly known as Periyar, demanded priesthood in Hindu temples be opened up to all castes.
For the 23 chosen priests, the CM’s order was a landmark moment in their lives. Speaking to the New Indian Express, one appointee said he felt as though he had got his personal independence on August 14, 2021.
