251

CHAPTER- VIII

ADMINISTRATION OF HINDU RELIGIOUS ENDOWMENT

DEPARTMENT

After the attainment of Indian independence in 1947, Tamil Nadu, the

Indian sub continent’s part and parcel was also amenable to political changes

thereafter occurred. In 1951, Madras Hindu Religious and Charitable

Endowment Administration Act XIX of 1951 was passed. This was an

important turning point with regard to temple administration because the

‘Commissioner’ became the chief administrator and the members became

government officials. Area Committees were constituted to appoint Trustees to

temples which had an income below Rs.20,000. The Commissioner appointed

the Trustees to temples who had an income above Rs.10000. Deputy

Commissioner was the administrator and Assistant Commissioners presided

over the Area Committees. But he had no right to vote. The Madras Act of

1951 instituted the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment Department in

the place of Hindu Religious Charitable Endowment Board. 1Temples of

Tiruchirappalli had Inspectors placed under Assistant Commissioner of

Tiruchirappalli. 2 An analysis of the administration of the temples between

1947 and 1972 is made in this chapter. This exposes the changing trends in the

temple administration.

1. Chandra Mudaliar, State and Religious Endowments in Madras , University of Madras,

Madras, 1976, p.324.
2. Tirukoil, Indhu Samaya Aranilaya thurai Veliyedu, Chennai, November, 1958, pp. 7-9
 252

This Department is functioning from Nungambakkam, Madras from 2

November 1959 onwards. Upto that period the following were the presidents. 3

Table- 8-1

Sl.No. Name Period

1 T.Sadhasiva Iyer 07.02.1925 - 22.11.1927
2 R.Surya Rao (Temporary) 23.11.1927 - 30.04.1928
3 C.V.Aranga Reddy 01.05.1928 - 30.03.1930-
4 R.Surya Rao 01.04.1930 - 16.05.1935
5 A.Gandappa 17.05.1935 -15.5.1940-
6 T.M.Narayanasamy Pillay 16.05.1940 - 14.11.1944

On 30 September 1951 when a new Act was passed, the Board and

President were abolished and they were replaced by a Department and

Commissioner. T.N.Chinniah Pillai was the first commissioner. 4

The Madras Temple Entry Authorisation Act 1947 (Madras Act V of

1947) broke down the barrier to exclude certain people of Hindu Society from

entering the temples. The Madras Devadasis (Prevention of Dedication) Act,

1947 (Madras Act XXXI of 1947) also removed the dark spot in the

administration of Hindu temples. Beyond these two remarkable reforms, the

territorial jurisdiction of the president, Hindu Religious Endowment Board and

the two Commissioners were altered with effect from 15, December 1947.

From 1st July 1947 to 30th June 1948, 12,961 major institutions and 15,574

minor institutions were brought to function. Under control of Commissioners

specific Registers were introduced. A Scheme of Administration was

3. Ibid., December 1959, pp. 4-5

4. Ibid., p.4
 253

introduced in 84 institutions and 1764 Audit Reports were received. During

the period of 1947-1948, the following was the financial position.

Table-8-2

Financial Position, 1947-1948

Details Amount

Opening Balance Rs.1.58 Lakhs

Receipts Rs.10.45 Lakhs

Total Rs.12.03 Lakhs

Investment & Capital Expenditure Rs.11.60 Lakhs

Closing Balance Rs.0.43 Lakhs

For training 15 students of Vaishnava and Saiva faiths a school was

started at Tirunelveli and it was funded by donations from various temples.

Nearly thirty one temples were renovated. SthalaPuranams of five temples

were also published. 5 Such were the changes put into effect during the year of

independence. They were also beneficial to have the facts about the historical

development of the temple.

The Act No. V 1949 of Tamil Nadu was another step towards progress.

By this Act the already functioning Temple Committees were abolished due to

their negligence of duties. Assistant Commissioners were appointed to carry

out the duties of the Committee Members. They conducted enquiries and

5. Madras Presidency Administration Report, 1947 –1948, Part II, Madras, 1948, pp.102 –
105.
 254

investigations and passed verdicts. Their verdicts could be appealed to the

Commissioner, whose orders were final. 6

The Madras Act V of 1947 (The Madras Temple Entry Authorisation

Act) was amended by the Madras Act XIII of 1949 and that came into effect

from 28th June 1949. By this Act, two schemes were introduced. One was for

the verification and appraisement of jewels and valuables of the religious

institutions and the next one was to lend advices to the religious institutions

regarding rent, land, estates of religious institutions. A separate Verification

Officer was appointed. By this Act, the inam lands were compiled. The Special

Officer appointed suggested modifications and changes to the Executive

authorities. Trustees were appointed for 241 temples. The following was the

financial statement for 1948-1949.

Table-8-3

Financial Position, 1948-1949

Details Amount
Opening Balance Rs.0.43 lakhs
Receipts Rs.12.11 lakhs
Total Expenditure Rs.12.54 lakhs
Closing Balance Rs.1.20 lakhs

This Act of 1949 brought 13213 major institutions and 15,376 minor

institutions under its control. 7 Various changes were introduced for the sake of

the efficient administrative of the temple.

6. Ibid., 1948 – 1949, Madras, 1949, p. 103

 255

During the year 1950-51, 28,322 major institutions were brought under

the control of the Board. A sum of 9.5 lakhs was collected as contribution, and

the arrears were Rs.3.75 lakhs. 8

For making proper appointments and to fix the pay of a permanent

member was sanctioned in 1950-51. The proceedings for the utilization of time

scale was also introduced. 9 By the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment

Act of 1951 (Madras Act XIX of 1951) the Commissioner, Deputy

commissioners, Assistant Commissioners and other officers and servants

including Executive Officers of religious institutions employed were treated as

Government Servants and their salaries, allowances, pensions and other

remunerations were to be paid from the consolidated fund of the State. Among

309 Executive officers those who were working as Assistant Commissioners

were given the right to countersign and pass T.A Bills of the officials. 10

During 1951-1952 the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment

Department had one Commissioner, three Deputy Commissioners, and 21

officers at the grade of Assistant Commissioners. On 31st June 1951, there were

13,726 temples under its control. From 1st July 1951 to 29 September 1951 the

following was the abstract of the financial statement.

7. Ibid., pp. 87 - 89
8. Ibid., 1950 – 1951, Madras, 1951, p.82
9. G.O.No.1021, Rural Welfare Department, 25 September 1951.
10. Letter R.C. No. 37900/- 59 of the HR & CE Commissioner to the Secretary to
Government, Revenue Department, Madras 1 February 1959.
 256

Table-8-4

Financial Position 1st July 1951- 29 September 1951

Details Amount

Rs. Annas Paise

Opening Balance Rs.3,05,340 4 9

Receipts Rs.3,24,172 11 0

Total Rs.6,29,513 0 9

Expenditure incurred Rs.5,63,191 9 6

Closing Balance Rs.66,321 6 9

From 30th September 1951 onwards due to provincialisation the

contributions and other amounts realized were credited to government

accounts. 11

For introducing further amendments to the earlier Act of 1952, The

Madras Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (Amendment) Act 1954

was passed. 12 With regard to the lessees who had taken temple lands were

made responsible for any loss sustained by the temple incurred during the lease

period. For the malpractices of the leases in the temple fund when brought to

light by Auditors the lease was cancelled. 13Even when the Andhra State was

11. Madras State Administration Report, 1951 – 1952, Part. II, Madras, 1952, pp. 94 – 95.
12. Ibid, 1953 – 54. Part I, Madras, 1954, p.12.
13. G.O. No. 3425, Public Department, 17 December 1953.
 257

formed, the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Board was to have

the following officials. 14

Table-8-5

Officials Numbers
Commissioner 1
Personal Assistant 1
Senior Superintendents 2
Junior Superintendents 2
Upper Division Clerks 5
Lower Division clerks 18
Typists 2
Attenders 3
Peons 9

These allotments were made according to the needs of the Department.

This sanction was made for a period from 22nd September 1953 to 21st January
15
1954 and after that new sanction was to be obtained.

The Amendment Act of 1954 had the following features also. They are

a) The Commissioner was treated as an individual to play a corporate role. He

had a common seal.

b) The Madras Hindu Religious Charitable Endowments (Administration)

Fund was left under the control Commissioner and he met with all the

expenses of the Department from that fund.

c) Payment of contribution and audit fees were due to the Commissioner.

14. G.O. No 3218, Revenue Department, 21 December, 1953.

15. G.O. No 117, Rural Welfare Department, 22 September 1953.
 258

d) The Commissioner was allowed to grant exemption to religious institutions

upto income of Rs.200. It was left to the discretion power of the

Commissioner.

e) He was authorised to grant money from the above mentioned fund to carry

out repairs and renovations of religious institutions. 16

Like other districts, Trichirappalli district also had an area committee.

From 1st July 1953 onwards the Deputy commissioners of Tanjore had shifted

his headquarters to Trichirappalli. For investigation and inspection, the

Commissioner was to be on camps. He had to appoint the Trustees. He was

authorised to inspect the offices of the Deputy as well as Assistant

Commissioners. He offered regular instructions to his subordinates.

The Deputy Commissioners had headquarters at Coimbatore and

Tiruchirappalli. They were also touring officers and conducted administrative

and judicial enquiries. They also inspected the offices of the Assistant

Commissioners. 17

The Assistant Commissioners were also touring and inspecting officers

of the Religious Institutions. They were Chairmen of the respective area

committees and presided over meetings and conducted the proceedings. In the

absence of area committees, the Assistant Commissioners carried out its duties.

Beyond them therewere other office subordinate staff. It was the duty of all to

maintain the buildings of the temples and their premises neat and clean. By

that, they had to preserve the religious atmosphere. Tanks and water facilities

16. Administration Report of the Hindu Religious Charitable Endowments (Administration

Department) from 1 April 1953 to 31 March 1954, Madras, 1954, pp. 1-4.
17. Ibid., p.5
 259

should be provided. Arrangements should be made for easy and free worship.

Proper lamps and lighting arrangements should be given. All idols should be

kept clean and ready for worship at all times. The outer prakaras and

circumambulatory passages should be clean. Odhuvars, Vedaparayanikar,

priests and instrumental musicians should all be appointed. Vibhudhi,

Kumkum should be offered to devotees. Devotional songs should be sung

regularly. Religious discourses and festivals should be conducted

uninterruptedly. The pilgrims should be provided with all facilities. 18

In addition to the above, registers and records were maintained in tact by

the Executive Officers. Rules and regulations along with the provisions of the

earlier Acts were adhered by them. The properties were kept in proper

custody. 19

Due to the formation of Andhra State on 1st October 1953, the number

of the staff of the Madras Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments were

reduced and it was as shown below

Table-8.6

Officials in 1953

Officials Number
Commissioner One
Deputy Commissioner Two
Assistant Commissioner Twelve
Personal Assistant One

18. Ibid., pp.12 - 13

19. Ibid., pp.14 - 16
 260

There were 8441 major institutions and 6,639 minor institutions. 20 The

other activities were continued as in the previous years. Arrangements for

verification and appraisement of jewels and valuable belongings to various

religious institutions were made. Special staff were deputed to supervise the
21
festivals and to safeguardthe hundials. The receipts of the Department during

1954-1955 was Rs.5,50,070/- and the expenditure was Rs.6,89,010. 22 It

indicates the gradual growth and development of the activities of the Hindu

Religious and Charitable Endowments. The increased expenditure also showed

that the importance assigned to the temple development by the Government.

The above mentioned adequate measures continued during 1955-1956

also. Two educational institutions i-e, the Vedapadasalas of Kumbakonam and

Tiruvayyaru functioned continuously. Among the nine poor homes and

orphanages, one was functioning from Nachchiyar Koil. Nearly ninety temples

were renovated. The programme of beautification of temples too continued. A

sum of Rs.63.68 lakhs, belonging to various religious institutions, was invested

in National Savings Certificates, State Loans and other Government

securities. 23

During 1956-19 57, 214 new institutions came under the department.

The receipts during the period was Rs.8,06,850.12.6 and the expenditure was

Rs.7,95,469.9.5. 24 Along with other developments the receipts also increased

and the expenses also increased. It should be noted that the Madras Act XIX of

20. Ibid., p.97

21. Ibid., p 99
22. Madras State Administration Report, 1954 – 1955, Part I, Madras, 1956, p. 118
23. Ibid., 1955 – 1956, Part II, Madras, 1956, p. 102.
24. Ibid., 1956 – 1957, Part I, Madras, 1957, p. 93
 261

1951 stipulated many rules to be followed by the Hindu Religious and

Charitable institutions. All the activities of the different officials, Trustees,

financial arrangements, service procedures etc, were all notified in detail. They

served as guidelines for the successful functioning of the Department

concerned. 25 It was also a custom among the Department to publish its

administration report regularly every year. This practice was beneficial to know

the different activities executed in every year. This was a significant aspect.

The year1957-58 witnessed a total transaction as noted below. 26

Receipts - Rs.2,46,91,460.91

Charges - Rs.2,45,04,211.59

During this period the Madras Act XXVII of 1954 and Madras Act IXof

1956 were in force. The incorporated and unincorporated institutions were

placed under devasthanams. At the end of the year 1958, there were 6,727

temples. The area committees dealt with 10,417 cases. The Inspecting officers

of this department were deputed to attend the auction of the leases and rights

belonging to religious institutions with a view to prevent combination collusion

or fraud amongst bidders. A sum of Rs.4,00,000/- was allocated for repair and

renovation, Clearance works of 132 temples were under taken during this

period. It is worth to note that a total sum of Rs. 31,97,931 was in savings and

that was invested in Savings Certificates as per rules. The other Acts connected

with temples were also attended to. 27

25. Rules under Madras Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, Thompson &
Co, Madras, 1953, pp.-2-5
26. Madras State Administration Report, 1957 – 1958, Part I, Madras, 1958, p. 10.
27. Ibid., Part . II, pp.133 –135.
 262

Even for temples which had an income below Rs.3000/- Auditors were

appointed. 28 Audit Inspectors were appointed to audit the accounts of the

religious institutions whose annual income was less than Rs.1000/-. 29 A sum of

Rs.8,94,380 was spent for the construction of the office for the Hindu

Religious and Charitable Endowments Board at Madras 30 It was decided that a

sum of 3% of the endowments should be contributed. 31 The Administrative

Fund of the Department was to include the following 32

a) Fees paid to Government pleaders.

b) Cost of Stationary and Printing Forms.

c) Pensions

d) Contribution to provident fund of the officers and servants of the

Department.

e) Gratuity paid to officers and servants of the Department.

Due to want of service, the government did not hesitate to retain a

temporary staff even after the expiry of the stipulated appointment. The

following were the temporary staff.

a) Editor of a Journal

b) Upper Division clerk

c) Typist

d) Peon

28. G.O.No. 2899, Revenue Department, 3 October 1959.

29. Ibid.
30. G.O.No. 799, Revenue Department, 13 March, 1959.
31. Letter No. 7452 of the Special Government Pleader to Secretary, Revenue
Department, Government of Madras, 13 February 1957
32. Letter R.C. No. 4823 / 57, F – 1, Madras. 4 March 1957
 263

This appointments were essential for the publication of a monthly

Journal in Tamil Nadu under the auspicious activities of the Hindu Religious

and Charitable Endowment Board (Administration) Department. Adequate

provisions were also made in the Budget. 33

Steps were taken to maintain the idols and temple premises neat

and tidy as noted below: 34

1) By using chemicals such as Gamaxine, Lysol, Benzoin etc., the

problem of bats were avoided.

2) Proper lighting arrangements were made in the Temple.

3) In the garbhagriha and ardhamandapa only oil lamps should be

used. No electric lights were used in those two areas.

4) The Electric lights were avoided from falling straight on the images.

The worshippers must be able to see the images properly. To that

extent oil lamps must be employed.

5) No electrifications were allowed to decorate the mounts, chariots,

palanquins etc of the deities at times of processions during festivals.

6) The growth of plants in the walls, vimanas and towers were removed.

With the use of “Globe tree killer” such growths were prevented.

7) No thorns of the interruptions should disturb the worshippers while

moving around the prakaras.

8) The black stone walls, pillars, the inscriptions, the beautiful

sculptures were kept away from white washing and painting.

33. G.O. No. 395, Revenue Department, 9 February 1959

34. Commissioner’s circular No 31, 930 / 58, Madras, 14 October 1958.
 264

9) While undertaking renovations the inscriptions and the sculptures

were protected.

10) Minor repair works were undertaken immediately then and there

11) Proper and costlier paints were used.

12) The water in the temple were kept clean to be used at any time.

13) The idols were clothed promptly. The cloths were washed regularly.

14) The figures of Azhwars and Nayanmars were arranged in the

uniform order and their names were written in the rear wall.

15) The shrines also were given the names.

16)The screens were having the figures of Nandhi, Linga, Conch,

Chakra and Tirunamam.

17) The rituals and chanting were executed promptly.

18)At times of festivals discourses, parayanams and devotional lectures

were arranged.

19) During the Tamil month, Margazhi, Thiruvembavai and

Thiruppavai were sung.

20) A notice Board was placed which contained details about times of

rituals, date of festivals, Kattalais etc.

21) The hymns of Nayanmars and Parsurams of the Azhvars were carved

in stones.

22) The Sthala Varalaru or temple history was published and that offered

the history of temples.

 265

These activities reveal that the Department had made regular

arrangements to improve Bhakti or devotional spirit among the devotees in all

possible ways. The devotion towards the temple worship was also encouraged

because temples were the abodes of Gods and Goddesses.

As the Dharma chatrams maintained by the temples formed part of the

properties and endowments, the Department was specific in maintaining them

in tact without any financial crisis. 35 Steps were also taken to avoid

mismanagement of the charitable endowments. The Inspectors made regular

visits and inspected the accounts and verified the records. The general

conditions were inspected. As the charities were purely private and hereditary,

they were maintained in tact. Separate committees were also constituted to

protect the choultries which formed a part of the properties of a temple. 36

The non-Gazetted members of the Hindu Religious and Charitable

Endowments (Administration) Department were transferred to the areas of the

temples. Further on the basis of merit, able and senior officials were appointed

as editors of Tirukkoil, by the Commissioner. The editor’s scale of pay was

fixed as Rs.200-10-300 with usual allowances. He was eligible for pension,

gratuity etc. In general he should possess M.O.L. or B.O.L. Degree and should

have faith in Hindu Religion. His probation period was fixed as two years. 37

The Annadanachatram (Food Charity Hall) in Tiruchirappalli was managed

by the Department by removing all the problems occurred in the form of

35. G.O. No. No. 1082, Revenue Department, 7 April 1959.

36. Memorandum No. 94614, D/56, 24 December 1956.
37. G.O. No. No. 1444, Revenue Department, 11 May 1959.
 266

management and finance. 38 The government also allowed a grant of Rs.6000/-

through Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment Board for maintaining a

Pooja Veedu by Raja of Pudukkottai. 39

A separate Consultative Committee was constituted during April 1957

to obtain the co-operation of the officials in the administration and preservation

of religious institutions. The committee which had 15 members was presided

over by the Home Minister. Five sub-committees were also constituted to

report on arts, managements of the temple, literature, publications etc. After

visits to places and periodical meetings they sent reports to the commissioner.

Other activities were carried out in all the temples, without any exemption of

the temples at Tiruchirappalli. 40

To reenact the previous Act after removing the defects, the Madras Act

XXII of 1959 was passed. It was applicable to all the districts of Tamil Nadu. It

repealed the Madras Act XIX of 1951 and the Travancore- Cochin Hindu

Religious Institutions Act 1950 (Travancore- Cochin Act XV of 1950). It was

to facilitate the Shencottah and other areas which were included with Tamil

Nadu to get all the facilities of Tamil Nadu. 41

With regard to the fundamental rules of the Hindu Religious and

Charitable Endowments Board, it was decided to appoint suitable persons for

all the posts in temple service. The pay of the permanent member was also

regularised as per the scales of pay sanctioned by the government. It was the

38. G.O. No. No.1652, Revenue Department, 30 May 1959.

39. G.O. No. No.1381, Revenue Department, 5 May 1959
40. Madras State Administration Report, 1958 - 1959, Part II, Madras, 1960, pp. 111 – 113.
41. Ibid., Part I. p.. 25.
 267

duty of the Commissioner to eliminate the discrepancies in the fixation of

pay. 42

The Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (Amendment) Act of

1959 (Madras Act No XXII of 1959) also maintained the staff and their

statusquo as per previous acts. In some cases the Executive officers themselves

served as controlling and pay drawing officers. But those who served in the

villages were placed under the concerned Assistant Commissioners of that area.

The Assistant Commissioners served as controlling and countersigning

officers, with powers to pass the Pay as well as Travelling Allowance bills of

the Executive Officers. 43 Even for making appointment as area committee

member, a candidate need not be a trustee in any temple and if at all heavy that

cost he should resign that post before becoming a member of the committee. 44

Even retired people and Members of the Legislative Assemblies claimed to be

members of the Area Committees. As they were income tax assesses and

devoted Hindus they claimed it as a privilege. 45 The Chairman and members of

the Area Committees were appointed. 46 The term of office of the committees
47
were fixed by the Government. The existing members of the Area

42. G.O. No. 957, Rural Welfare Department, 12 September 1951.

43. HR & CE Commissioner’s Letter R.C. No. 37909/59 1, December 1959 to the
Secretary, Revenue Department, Fort St. George, Madras, 1959.
44. Letter No. 21935/V/60-3, dated 22 March 1960 of the Secretary, Government of
Madras.
45. Personal Letter of R. Krishnasamy Reddiar, Member of Legislative Assembly,
Madras, 11 March 1960.
46. G.O. No.1680, Revenue Department , 30 March 1960
47. G.O. No.1, Revenue Department, 1 January 1960
 268

Committees had the right to ask for reappointment to the committee after the

expiry of the term of office. 48

Since the Hindu Religious and Endowments Board was provincialised

on 30th September 1951, it was a custom of the government to ask the

Commissioner to offer particulars regarding the grades, permanent and non-

permanent staff for enabling the government to make appointments. 49 There

were “Supervisory Staff” and “Executive Staff” serving in the temples. For

regularizing their services and for financial dealing it was necessary to

maintain statements and records. This was applicable even to the Executive

Officers also. 50 The pay and other allowances were approved by the

Accountant General. 51 The Commissioner of Hindu Religious and Endowments

made arrangements and supplied details to enable the Executive Officers to

52
draw their salaries because their services were also provincialised. A flat rate

of 10% was recovered from the funds of the institution every month and finally

this amount was to be adjusted from the Hindu Religious and Charitable

Endowments (Administration) Fund. 53 As the services of the Executive officers

of the temple were provincialised from 1st January 1960 onwards they were

treated as non gazetted government servants. The Assistant Commissioners of

the Hindu Religious and charitable Endowments department, being Gazetted

48. Letter of T.V. Sannasi, Member of Legislative Assembly, Madras, 11 March 1960
49. Memorandum No 29992, D1/60 - 1, 14, May, 1960 of the Revenue Department,
Madras.
50. Account General’s Letter No.DA XXVA – Misc II/22/1959 – 6113, May 1960.
51. Ibid, No. XXV.K.Misc.II /22/1959-61/212 , 16 July, 1962.
52. HR & CE Commissioner’s Letter R.C. No.5427/60 (T.I), Madras, 3 August 1960.
53. Ibid, R.C.No.31054/60 F.3, 10 September 1960.
 269

officers were entrusted with the right to control the executive officers and to

countersign their bills. For recovery purposes the Bills pertaining to them were

prepared in triplicate. The flat rate recovery of 10% was not applicable to the

Executive Officers. Further the contributions regarding pension and leave

salary also be recovered from the above said fund. 54

Due to the provincialisation of Executive officers, a draft amendment

was made for their financial commitments 55. The Commissioner had to send

the addresses of all the members of the Area Committees to the Secretary of

Revenue Department. With regard to Tiruchirappalli, the addresses of the

following five members were given in 1960 56

1. R. KrishnasamyReddiar M.L.A – Chairman

2. V. Arunachala Thevar M.L.A - Member

3. Dr.V.K. Reganathan – Member

4. R. Duraisamy Padayachi – Member

5. T.V. Sannasi M.L.A. - Member

The names of all the Area Committee members were published in the

fort St. George Gazette on 1st April, 1960. 57 New additional members were

also included separately. 58

54. G.O. No. 757, Revenue Department, 9 February 1960.

55. HR & CE Commissioner’s Letter, No.2499/60, Madras, 22 January, 1960
56. Ibid, No 40959/59. 24 March, 1960.
57. G. O. No. 1680, Press Department, 24 March 1960
58. Assistant Secretary, Public Works Department, Letter No 2464, D2/60-1, 26 March
1960.
 270

There were five categories of Executive officers as noted below and

they were permitted to draw advances from their salaries as recommended by

the Assistant Commissioners. 59

Table- 8-7

Grades of Executive Officers

Grades Scale of Pay

I Rs.150-10-200-EB-15-350

II Rs.100-5-150

III Rs.80-5-100

IV Rs.45-3-60-2-90

V Rs.35/-(consolidated)

This was to maintain an uniform standard in the administration on the

basis of the size of the temples. The Assistant Commissioners were authorised

to countersign their bills which were in duplicate. 60 The Executive Officers

were eligible for Dearness Allowance, Compensatory Allowances, Medical

Expenses etc., The Commissioner at times of necessity asked for additional

funds from the Government. 61The Deputy Commissioner and Assistant

Commissioners were directed to issue orders to the Executive officers to draw

advances from temple funds in consultation with the Trustees. 62

59. HR & CE Commissioner’s Letter, R.C.No 5427/60 (IT), 29 June 1960.

60. Letter of Accountant General, No.DA. XXV.A Misc.11.716, 19 January 1959.
61. G.O. No.757, Revenue Department, 9 February 1960.
62. HR & CE Commissioner, Letter R.C.No.2497/60. F.3, Madras, 26 January 1960.
 271

By the Act XXII of 1959 of the Hindu Religious and Charitable

Endowments which came into force from 1st January 1960, all steps to

improve the religious atmosphere of the temples were undertaken. Permanent

amenities were afforded for water supply in many temples along with the

construction of rest houses. Approval was granted to the introduction of the

Dairy Development Scheme in the Mayrajuneswarar Temple in

Tiruchirappalli District. A sum of Rs.1,14,662.29 was spent for the

construction of the office building in the site owned by department. 63

Powers were delegated with certificates issued by the Commissioner.

Even for getting increments for Assistant commissioners of Hindu Religious

and Charitable Endowment (Administration) Department, certificate was

necessary from the appointing authority. 64 The Commissioner of the Hindu

Religious and Charitable Endowment was granted power impose minor

penalties such as censure and with holding of increments and to postings,

transfers and grant of leave. 65 There were additional powers delegated to the

Commissioner in addition to their powers to issue certificate to Assistant

Commissioners and powers to accord sanction for payment of additional pay

under fundamental Rule No.49. 66

As per the Act No.22 of 1959, though the Government had appointed

Advisory Committee to assist the commissioner of Hindu Religious and

Charitable Endowment, twelve non – officials were appointed as members of

63. Madras State Administration Report, 1960- 1961, Madras 1961, p.363.
64. Letter No. G1/MISC/346 of the Accountant General, Madras, 12 June 1959.
65. Memorandum .No.78474/B2/59-1 of Public Devices, Madras, 21 August 1959.
66. G.O. No. 2609, Home Department, 15 September 1958
 272

the committee by the Governor of Madras. They were appointed for three

years and were paid Travelling allowance and Daily allowance. 67

The minister for Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment was the

Ex-officio Chairman of the Committee. The Secretary to Government Hindu

Religious and Charitable Endowment, the Commissioner of Hindu Religious

and Charitable Endowment were the official members of the Committee for a

period of three years. The Revenue Secretary was also included to assist the

Commissioner in financial matters. He was the countersigning authority of the

Travelling Allowance Bill of the members of the Advisory Committee. He

68
fixed the date of the meeting and prepared the agenda. Separate rules for

Advisory Committee were also introduced and the committee offered its

recommendations for the propagation of religious tenets, for maintaining

schools and training institutions for Archakasadhyapaks and

Vedaparayanakas, and for introducing the study of Hindu religion and

philosophy in colleges and universities for giving advices to maintain the

temples in tact. 69A standard scale of expenditure was also fixed. 70 Separate

rules called, ‘Publication of Notice and Notification Rules’ was introduced

mainly for published facts about the Hindu Religious and Charitable

Endowment Department in the Fort St. George Gazette. 71 The rules called,

‘The Alienation of Removable Trust property Rules’ were framed mainly to

67. G.O. No.3 , Revenue Department, 1 January 1960

68. G.O. No. 507, Revenue Department, 29 January 1960
69. G.O. No.663, Revenue Department , 5, February 1960
70. G.O. No. 860, Revenue Department 13 February 1960
71. G.O. No. No.661, Revenue Department, 5 February 1960
 273

regulate the exchange, or mortgage or lease for a term exceeding five years. 72

Due to State Reorganisation in 1956, for the Madras Hindu Religious and

Charitable Endowment (Administration) Department, the strength of officials

was fixed as below. 73

Table-8-8

Strength of Officials

Post of Officials Number and Nature of Posting

Senior Superintendents 2 Permanent
Junior Superintendents and Managers 5 Permanent
Upper Division Clerks and Inspectors 37 Permanent
19 Temporary (36)
Stenographers 1 Permanent
Lower Division Clerks 86 Permanent
54 Temporary
Typists & Steno Typists 17 Permanent
12 Temporary (29)
Attenders 5 Permanent
2 Temporary (7)
Peons 65 Permanent
34 Temporary (69)

They were amenable to state service rules. The functions of the Board of

Trustees Rules with Revenue Department Notification SRO. A. 583 of 1960

was put into effect as per the Act of 1959. 74 By that the Chairman of the Board

of Tustees convened a special meeting by the concurrence of the Assistant

72. G.O. No.866, Revenue Department, 15 February 1960

73. G.O. No.1334, Revenue Department, 5 March 1960
74. G.O. No. 938, (Revenue) 6, March, 1964
 274

Commissioner. After the expiry of his period, the Assistant Commissioner, by

a special meeting elected the Chairman. 75 The election of the fresh chairman

should be conducted within thirty days of the completion of the period of the

Chairman. 76

In 1964, there were 7872 major and 5310 minor temples under the

control of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment Department. A

Harikatha Kahebam training School was functioning under its control from

Thanjavur. The Palaniandavar College of Oriental Culture, Palani and a

Thevaram School at Palani were under its control. In 1963 High Schools were

started at Tirunelveli, Coutralam, Thiruvergadu, Madurai, Ramesvaram and

Kallakurichchi by the Department. A College of Oriental Culture at

Poompuhar was also started in that year. The Thirumalai Muthukumaraswami

Temple and Agneeswaraswami temple at Panpoli and Thiruppugalur

respectively run two Siddha Vaidhya Research Centres. The temples at

Thiruchendur, and Vaidheeswarankoil started Siddha Dispensaries. 77

In 1965 the Advisory Committee of Hindu Religious and Charitable

Endowment was reconstituted. 78 During June 1965, Summer Refresher

Courses were conducted for Executive Officers of temples and Inspectors by

the Department at Palani and Mayuram. In 1965, Women’ Arts College at

Kulithurai was started and Siddha Vaidhya dispensaries were started at

Tirunelveli and Palani.

75. Function of the Board of Trustees Rules, No.16 and 18.

76. Letter No.6786/63 – A3 of the Commissioner, Madras, 28 July 1962.
77. Sundar Raj, A.M., (ed.), Madras State Administration Report, Government of
Madras, Madras, 1964, pp.12-13.
78. G.O. No. 1688, Revenue Department, 4 May 1965
 275

The Journal Tirukkoil, started on 2nd October 1958 continued in a

prospering way. Tree planting, Intensive cultivation of vegetables, celebration

of More Milk Day, preservation of wild life etc, were the other community

welfare schemes arranged by the Department of Hindu Religious and

Charitable Endowment. 79

All the works executed during the year 1965 were continued by the

Department. The Advisory Committee met at Ootacammud on 5th May 1966.

Eight orphanages were functioning under the Department. A Tamil College of

Oriental Culture was functioning from Manali. The Department started the

Tamil Nadu Deivika Peravai in June 1966 and it was a registered body. On 2nd

October 1966 a training centre called, ‘Hindu Religious Pracharakar and

Guides’ was started. The social welfare activities continued along with

Vanamahotsava celebration. 80 Thus steps were taken to enhance the status of

temple by various activities of the Board.

The Commissioners granted exemptions to the Executive Officers for

the works carried out by him upto Rs.1000. Such arrangements were also

made up to the tune of Rs. 10,000. 81 The works also continued succeeding by

and successfully.

The Madras Hindu Religious Charitable Endowments (Amendment) Act

1967 came into force from 28th March, 1968. The Hindu Religious Charitable

Endowments (Amendment) Act of 1968 was put into effect from 16th October

1968. On 31st March 1969, there were 9, 347 temples were under the control of

79. Madras State Administration Report, 1965-1966, Madras, 1966, pp..341– 343.
80. Ibid., 1966-1967, Madras 1967, pp. 339 – 341.
81. G.O. No. 1258, Revenue Department, 21 June 1965
 276

the Department. Nearly 176 Trustees were appointed and 51 new religious

institutions were brought under the control of the Department. The actual

orphans numbering 177 were added by 93 more. The Area Committees were

abolished according to the Madras Act 19 of 1968. In 1968, a Special Officer in

the cadre of grade I Executive Officer was appointed and his head quarters was

located at Madurai and it is functioning from 12th March 1968 onwards. The

lands belonging to the temples were given lease to 84 Tenants Co-operative

Farming Societies. A sum of Rs.4,00,000 was sanctioned by the government

for renovation and revival of poor religious institutions. A sum of Rs.

21,21,546. 41 was invested in various Government securities. All the other

things continued to function effectively. 82

During the year 1969–1970, there were 9936 temples under the control

of the department. Around 215 trustees were there. The Advisory Committee

also continued to function. The Thiruppugalur Devasthanam started a Medical

Dispensary. A sum of Rs. 11,25,400.56 was invested on different government

securities. Temple lands were placed under lease to 84 Tenants Co-Operative

Farming Societies. Arrangements were made for the conduct of archanai in

Tamil was introduced. Thirumurai Archana scheme was also introduced.

Along with the different educational institutions 19 Kalyana Mandapams, ten

rest houses and cottages, three pilgrim houses were built. The different

celebrations conducted during previous years also contributed. 83

82. Tamil Nadu State Administration Report 1968 – 1969, Madras, 1969, pp. 388 – 391.
83. Ibid., 1969 – 1970, Madras, 1970, pp. 395 – 396.
 277

It was a customary practice to verify the jewels and valuables in the

temples of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department by a

verification officer. The reports, suggestions and defects pointed out by him

were all recorded. Further the verification also had suggested that the

maintenance of the jewels and valuables should be given due regard. 84

All the above facts indicate that the temple administration was carried

out by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Department as per the modified

rules and regulations stipulated by the amendment Acts introduced by the

Madras Government. The administration was executed with the support of the

committees appointed every now then for changes. The income of the temples

were also increasing year by year and that informs that the number of devotees

were increasing. Due to the free flow of fund, the temples began to

concentrate more on social welfare measures. Training institutions, schools,

and colleges were all started and they paved the way for social cohesion

between temple and society.

84. G.O. No. 642, Revenue Department, 4 March 1964.

 278

CONCLUSION

The study of the temple administration in the Chola Divya Desams with

special reference to Trichirappalli District (1925-1972) throws light on

different facts associated with temple activities. Trichirappalli District, as other

areas of Tamil Nadu is a prominent area due to the presence of a large number

of temples of both Saivism and Vaishnanvism along with other minor or folk

deities. They testify to the devotional attitude and outlook of the people of that

area. Tiruchirappalli, the capital of the modern Trichirappalli district was

popular during the early periods. Uraiyur was the capital of Cholas. The later

Nayaks had Tiruchirappalli as their capital. Tiruchirappalli was also a centre of

conflict between the British, French and Muslim rulers. The political

supremacy led to the development of religions all over India.

Tiruchirappalli itself is a known centre for its temples. The Uchchi

Pillayar koil, The Jalakandeswara temple of Thiruvanikkal, The Samayapuram

Mariamman temple, the Sriranganatha temple and Kamatchi Amman temple at

Sriranagam, Uraiyur Tantonriswarar temple, the Bojiswara temple of

Kannanur, the Palaivananathaswamy temple of Thiruppalaidurai,

Virakandiamman temple of Virappur, Uyyakkondan Thirumalai temple at

Karkudi, the Sundaraja Perumal temple of Anbil, the Muditholumbar temple of

Aivar Malai, the Sapthagiriswara temple of Lalgudi, the Mayanurkulumagi

Amman temple, Nedumgalam Siva temple, the Muwar temple of Uthamarkoil,

the Naganatha temple of Tiruchirappalli , Valadilakshminarayana perumal

temple, the Prasannavengatapathy temple of Gunaseelam, the Mahakaliswari

 279

temple at Kuthaippar village, the Thirumalapadisiva temple, the

Gnilivaneswaran temple at Thiruppaiginli, the Simmapuriswarar temple at

Karuppathur, the Palur Navagraha temple, Thiruvellaraipundarikashan Vishnu

temple, the Bhuvanseswari temple at Tiruchirappalli , the Kallukudiaujaneya

temple at Trichy, etc, are the captivating popular temples even today and they

explicate the devotion of the people.

Among the 40 Divyadesams of Chola Nadu, Srirangam, the abode of

Sriranganatha is a place of Varishnava sampradaya. Kambar released his

Kambaramayana from this temple. Ramanuja announced his mutts only from

here. Eleven Alvars have sung about this place. This huge Vaishnava temple

of south India is well maintained one to meet out the needs of the devotees of

Vaishnavism.

Sriragnam occupied an important place during the Chola rule. The

Cholas of the Vijayalaya line exercised control over Srirangam for a period

well over four centruries with unbridled power. The annexation of

Cholamandalam by Aditya I was a strategic success. Srirangam slipped away

from the hands of Chola ParantakaI who could not regain it in his life time.

With the assistance extended by the local and loyal feudatories , the successors

of Parantaka I retrieved the losss after the death of Krishna and recaptured

Srirangam which later on became virtually the secondary capital of the Cholas.

It was from Srirangam that Rajendra I , the adventurous Chola monarch ,

embarked on a policy of military expansionand conducted his victorious

military monarch to Chalukyan territories. After the treacherous murder of

 280

Adirajendra in a local uprising, Kulottunga I, a prince of Eastern Chlukya

descent, became the undisputed master of Srirangam .It was the era of the

collapse of the gigantic Chola Empire, which had dominated the political

scenario for centuries .On the imperial throne, after a reign of many sovereigns,

there sat Rajaraja III, a weak and nominal ruler.All that remained to him or to

his successor was the old glory of the Chola Empire .Only the shadow was

there.

The trading community is mentioned in Chola inscriptions as donors of

the various types of gifts to the Srirangam Ranganathaswami Temple. The

Shepherds maintained the sheds and cows endowed to the temples. Besides the

Chola officials and common people also made donations of the temple. The

Chola inscriptions of Srirangam contain some interesting information about the

Vishnu temples found in the Tiruchirappalli region. But many of them were not

identified now-a-days. Hence they must have been destroyed in due course.

Thu Srirangam occupies a significant position in religious and cultural aspects

during the Chola period and hereafter.

Uthamarkoil is significant one because the temple there has three

shrines for Siva, Vishnu and Brahmma. This Mummurthi Sthalam is

administered by an Executive Officer of the Hindu Religious Charitable

Endowment Board like that of Srirangam.

Thiruvellarai Pundarikasha temple is another renowned Divya Desam of

Tiruchirappalli District. Thirumangai Alvar and Periyalvar have sung about

 281

this temple. This temple is under the control of the Hindu Religious Charitable

Endowments Executive Officer.

Uraiyur, now a part of Tiruchirappalli, is the popular Vaishnava centre

because it was the birth place of Thiruppanalvar, the author of

Amalanadhipiran, a part of Nalayira Divya Prabandam. Anbil is the fifth

Divya Desam among the 108 Divya Desams sung by Vaishnava Alvars.

Due to the proper administration of these temples, the rituals and

festivals are conducted uninterruptedly. The administration of these temples

has made all the facilities for the pilgrims and devotees who visit the temple

and mainly preserve the traditional and customarily practices of worship.

The Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment Board functioning

from February 1927, was the effort made by the alien British rule to maintain

the administration of the temples, religious institutions and endowments intact.

The provincial Government of Madras with a President and Commissioners

arranged for a regular administration. The Office of the Commissioner with its

graded officials carried out the activities of the administrative activities. Rules

and regulations were framed. While the President was the administrative head,

he was assisted by Commissioners and Assistant Commissioners. Thus the

temples in Divya Desam are all maintained in tact.

By maintaining a separate Register, every temple is brought under

control. The registers comprises of details about the Trustees of the temples

and other details pertaining to it. The Malabar Temple Entry Act of 1938 and

the Madras Temple Entry Authorisation Act of 1939 provided opportunities of

 282

temple worship to all people irrespective of caste, colour and creed. The

Trustees maintained the respective temples. Separate Scheme of

Administration was followed. A paid Executive Officer from the Temple fund

was appointed to execute specific duties. The Provincial Government was the

authority to supervise and superintendent the Board which was streamlining the

activities of temples. All the activities carried out by the Boards, and the

changes and alterations made in the administration were published in the Fort.

St.George Gazettee, Madras, periodically without fail.

Out of the appropriated fund of the temples and endowments, the

Trustees maintained the financial administration. Procedures were also

stipulated for dealing with the finance. Specific rules for appointments,

budgets, reports, accounts, returns etc were submitted periodically to the Board.

The term of office of the Trustees was fixed. To administer the temples in tact

and to streamline the activities, a number of Acts were passed by the State

Government . Madras Hindu Religious Endowments (Amendment) Act of 1929

also known as Madras Act V of 1929, the Madras Hindu Religious Endowment

(Amendment) Act of 1930 also called Madras Act IV of 1930, The Madras

Hindu Religious Endowments (Amendment) Act of 1931 also called Madras

Act XI of 1931 etc. were passed at different junctures reveal the steps taken to

promote the temple administration in an effective manner. Many such laws

came up in the subsequent periods even before and after the independence of

India.
 283

Even during the British administration i.e., before 1925 greater attention

was paid to the preservation of the temples. With the commencement of the

Board of Revenue in 1789, temple administration was given due recognition

and importance. The Board did a lot for the upkeep and maintenances of the

temples. The District Collectors too had their role in the administration of the

temple. They streamlined the financial administration of the temple. They had

the right to enquire about the endowments. The Board of Revenue, the

Collectors, the Superintendent, Trustees and Managers were the authorities

who had contacts with the temple administration. The Regulation XXXIII of

1802, the Regulation VII OF 1817 etc., too did their best for proper

administration. With the changes introduced in the policies during the rule of

the East-India Company, new rules were put into effect. Various legislations

were passed in between 1842 and 1863.

Between 1860 and 1925, changes were introduced in the administration.

The Act of 1863 enabled the temples to have their own administration.

Committees such as Sullivan Committee (1889) C.R. Pantulu Committee

(1894) etc too suggested modifications in the administration mainly to keep the

workship in the temple in tact. Many Bills were introduced for the redressed of

the defects in the temple administrative setup. The Religious and Charitable

Trust Act of 1920 offered directives to the Trusts. The Select Committee

constituted in 1922 approved the religious mutts as institutions which work for

spiritual uplift. The Madras Act I of 1925 and the Madras Act II of 1927 too

assisted the proper administration of the temples.

 284

The period between 1925 and 1939 was another significant phase in the

temple administration. The Justice Party in power passed many Acts in 1925,

1927, 1928, 1929, 1930, 1931, 1931, 1934, 1935, 1937, 1939, etc., The

Justifies on their own individual religious policies introduced changes in a

rationalistic way. Many changes were put into effect regarding the Board,

Commissioners, and trustees. Local Committees were also constituted for

administration of temples with specific powers. Non-Brahmin elements were

also included in their temple policies and administration. Importance was

assigned to the devadasi inams. The Executive Officers and the Trustees were

also directed to act promptly and to send reports regarding their activities to the

Board at Madras. From 1927 onwards, Auditors were appointed to prepare

proper accounts. The Madras Temple Entry Authorisation Indemnity Act of

1939 (The Madras Act XXII of 1939) also introduced changes effectively.

Though the number of officials and servants of the temples varied, their

salaries were made uniform. A Joint Select Committee of twenty members was

constituted to discuss about the various aspects of administration. This

Committee had done a tremendous task in the temple administration. The

problems of the arcakas were also considered from 1931 onwards. Temple

Committees were constituted to solve the problems. The alien British rule

which followed a policy of non-intervention, was interested in entering, into

the portals of religion mainly to introduce changes in the temple administration

and to encourage devotees. The temple administration in the pre independent

 285

period was one which inculcated progressive ideas regularly. Sincere and

earnest administrative measures were promulgated promptly.

After independence, due to transfer of power and political changes, new

measures were undertaken. By the Act of 1951, the Commissioner became the

administrator and members became Government Officials. Commissioners,

Deputy Commissioners, Assistant Commissioners, Area Committees, Inspector

and other officers played a predominant role in the temple administration.

Madras Act V of 1947and Madras Act XXXI of 1947 contributed a lot to the

temple administration. Training Schools for understanding Saiva and

Vaishnava faiths were started. Sthala Puranams were published. By Madras

Act XIII of 1949, steps were taken to verify the jewels and valuables of the

temples. Importance was given to suggest ways and means for improving

temple administration. By the Madras Act XIX of 1951, the government paid

the salary from the consolidated fund of the State. Likewise, many other Acts

were passed in 1952, 1954 etc. As the officials of the department were made as

Government servants, many steps were taken regarding their salary and

services. Many changes were introduced in maintaining the temples, idols,

mounts and other valuables. Dharma Chatrams were maintained by the

temples along with Annadhana Chatrams. Many changes were introduced

due to the Reorganisation of States. Board of Trustees Rules were also framed.

Training centres for archakas and pracharakas were started from 2nd octorber

1966.
 286

The administration of the temples through the ages were carried out in

an effective manner. As the earlier rulers of Tamil Country were known for

their religious sentiments preserved the temples efficiently. During the rule of

the East India Company and British Crown, due to their policies of proper and

efficient administration, they took all efforts for the maintenance of temples

even though they followed the policy of non-intervention. Even during the

period of freedom struggle, the temples were functioning promptly in

promoting devotionalism and spiritualism. With the dawn of independence, it

was realised that the temples are the repositories of culture, art and architecture.

In this regard, many steps were taken. Many changes also brought according to

the time and need in the temple administration. No stone was left unturned in

maintaining temples. Modern principles and devices were followed in the

administration of temples. The administration of the five Vaishnava temples in

the Tiruchirappalli district is not deviating from the provisions introduced by

the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment Department of the

Government of Tamil Nadu. The Trustees and the Executive officers are doing

their best in the maintenance and upkeep of the temples and their

administration. The political changes too did not cause any damaging trends in

the temple administration of Divya Desam. Above all the administrators of all

the temples treat temples as a means for social welfare activities through

conducting fairs and festivals and opening up of educational institutions and

training institutes. This shows the utilisation of temple funds in promoting the

welfare activities.