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The Ayyappa Sangamam event, which is typically centered around the worship and celebration of Lord Ayyappa, has sparked controversy after it was reported that the event would proceed without the inclusion of Ayyappa. This development comes amidst an ongoing row over the Sabarimala temple, a prominent pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Ayyappa in Kerala, India. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has vehemently opposed this move, expressing outrage and criticizing the decision to exclude Ayyappa from the event. The party’s strong reaction suggests that the move is seen as an attempt to secularize or dilute the religious significance of the event, which is primarily focused on the worship and celebration of Lord Ayyappa. The controversy also draws attention to the broader debate surrounding the Sabarimala temple, where the entry of women of menstruating age was previously restricted. The Supreme Court of India’s decision to lift this restriction in 2018 sparked widespread protests and debate, with many arguing that the ruling infringed upon the traditional religious practices and beliefs associated with the temple. In this context, the exclusion of Ayyappa from the Ayyappa Sangamam event can be seen as a highly contentious issue, with the BJP and other groups likely viewing it as an affront to the religious sentiments of devotees. The use of the phrase “First Gold, Now the God” in the context of the controversy may suggest that the criticism is not just limited to the religious aspect but also touches upon issues of cultural heritage and the perceived erosion of traditional values. To understand the full implications of this controversy, it would be helpful to know more about the specific circumstances surrounding the Ayyappa Sangamam event and the reasons behind the decision to exclude Ayyappa. Additionally, considering the ongoing political and social landscape in India, particularly in relation to the Sabarimala issue, could provide further insight into why this decision has sparked such significant backlash from the BJP and potentially other groups.