Fresh controversy erupts over cine star's temple worship

Kannur, Kerala, July 2 (UNI) Close on the heels of a controversy on the famed Sabarimala, the abode of Lord Ayyappa, triggered by Kannada actress Jayamala, another actress, Meera Jasmine, has sparked off a fresh row with her worship at the Sree Rajarajeswara Temple at Taliparamba in the district.

The whole episode started when Meera with the producer of her latest Malayalam film worshipped in the temple on June 29 after obtaining prior permission from the TTK Devaswom authorities.

It was alleged that she worshipped at the temple without disclosing her identity and some devotees recognised her and informed the temple authorities about the entry of a Christian in the temple.

However, Meera denied the charges that she worshiped without the knowledge of the temple authorities and of concealing her identity.

''As I visited the temple with the knowledge and permission of the temple officials why should I keep my visit a secret,'' she asked.

''They gave me a warm welcome and even asked about my next visit to the temple when I returned after worship. But I am pained to know the developments since I had obtained prior permission from the Chief Executive Officer of the temple,'' she told UNI over phone.

''I am not going to flare up the issue and put the officials in trouble. God and the officials know the truth,'' she said and suspected that somebody had twisted the issue.

''It was my long-cherished dream to visit the Rajarajeswara temple, and I am quite happy that I could fulfil my dream,'' she said.

She said it was quite surprising to note that the temple authorities who had arranged all facilities for her worship and poojas washed off their hands denying the facts.

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