Famous music composer Ilaiyaraaja recently made a trip to the Srivilliputhur Andal Temple in Tamil Nadu. Unfortunately, he was reportedly not allowed to approach the sanctum. Videos from his visit popped up online, sparking backlash and claims that he was barred from entry because of his caste. Now, Ilaiyaraaja has finally spoken out about the whole situation.

Ilaiyaraaja comments on the Tamil Nadu temple controversy.

On Monday, Ilaiyaraaja hopped on X to shut down the rumors claiming that the temple authorities asked him to leave the sacred chamber. He expressed in Tamil, "There are people out there spreading lies about me. I never compromise my self-respect, no matter the situation, and I won’t start now. They’re making up stories that never took place and presenting them as facts. Fans and the public should ignore these false claims."

Ilaiyaraaja was joined by Sadagopa Ramanuja Iyer and Sadagopa Ramanuja Jeeyar from the Sri Andal Jeeyar Mutt in Srivilliputtur. However, there were reports that when they got close to the sacred area where the deity is kept, the temple officials asked them to leave. The music composer was at the temple to celebrate the launch of his new piece, Divya Pasuram. After his visit, the authorities presented him with garlands and silk clothes from Andal as a mark of respect.

The temple officials shared their thoughts.

A senior official from the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department shared with The Indian Express, “Devotees usually pray from the Vasantha Mandapam at the Andal Sannidhi, which is a pavilion outside the Arthamandapam — the space that leads to the main sanctum. When Ilaiyaraaja arrived with the senior priests at the Arthamandapam entrance, the priests let him know that he couldn’t go past the Vasantha Mandapam. So, Ilaiyaraaja offered his prayers from that area instead."

On another note, a biopic about him is currently in production. Arun Matheswaran is directing it, with Nirav Shah handling the cinematography. Dhanush is set to portray the music legend. The first look of the film was revealed back in March, but we’re still waiting for any new updates.

Read Also: Mahira Khan expressed her dream of having her son Azlan walk her down the aisle, calling it a significant moment.

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!