“Crowd Mismanagement: Valid Ticket Holders Denied Entry At HR&CE-Administered Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple Tirukalyanam Event”, The Commune, April 29, 2026

“Chaos and anger marked the annual Thirukalyanam ceremony at the Meenakshi Amman Temple after several devotees holding valid paid passes were allegedly denied entry, triggering protests and heated arguments with officials.

The event, organised under the supervision of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department, saw the issuance of online passes priced at ₹200 and ₹500. According to multiple attendees, thousands of devotees had booked these passes in advance and arrived at the venue as early as 4 AM to witness the ceremonial divine wedding.

However, officials reportedly stopped entry at a certain point, citing that the seating capacity inside the temple premises had already been filled. This left many devotees, despite holding valid tickets, stranded outside for hours……”

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