‘Non-Hindus not allowed’: Muslim-born dancer prohibited from performing in Indian temple

A Muslim-born dancer in India has said that she was prohibited to dance in a temple festival in Kerala as ‘non-Hindus’ were not allowed in inside, NDTV reported.

Mansiya VP had to perform at the 10-day National Festival of Dance and Music organised by Koodalmanikyam temple in Irinjalakuda in the Indian state of Kerala. At least 800 performers will be showcasing their talents at the festival which is to be held from April 15 to April 25.

“The organisers phoned me and told me that I cannot perform. When asked why, they said non-Hindus are not allowed in the temple. I said it is a national dance festival. I also said that I am a human being,” NDTV quoted Mansiya as saying.

The dancer told the organisers that she did not follow any religion despite being born into a Muslim family.

Chairman Pradeep Menon said that they were respecting the temple’s tradition which does not allow non-Hindus into the temple.

Popular Congress leader Shashi Tharoor condemned the incident saying, “I understand some restrictions in some temples about access to sanctum santorum. But this is a dance performance with other dancers inside the temple premises. Shocked that the temple is not allowing this.”