A controversy has erupted surrounding the Kerala government's invitation to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin for the inaugural Global Ayyappa Sangamam, an event for Ayyappa devotees scheduled for September 20 in Pampa, Kerala. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly condemned the invitation, likening it to "Hitler celebrating Jews" and accusing Stalin and his DMK party of being anti-Hindu.

The controversy stems from past remarks made by Stalin's son, Udhayanidhi Stalin, against Sanatana Dharma, which he equated with diseases like dengue and malaria. The BJP argues that these remarks, coupled with what they perceive as the DMK's general anti-Hindu stance, make Stalin an inappropriate guest for a Hindu religious event. BJP leaders have demanded an apology from both M.K. Stalin and Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for allegedly insulting Hindu beliefs. They have also warned that they will protest if the two Chief Ministers attend the event without apologizing.

Kerala BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar stated that inviting Stalin to the Ayyappa Sangamam was as incongruous as "Hitler celebrating Jews". He also accused Vijayan of previously directing police actions against Sabarimala devotees. Senior BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan called the invitation "the highest hypocrisy," noting that Stalin has declined invitations from Hindu organizations in Tamil Nadu but accepted the one in Kerala.

Defending the invitation, Kerala Devaswom Department Minister V.N. Vasavan emphasized that the Global Ayyappa Sangamam is a joint effort between the government and the Travancore Devaswom Board and aims to bring together Ayyappa devotees from around the world. He also highlighted the government's ₹1,300 crore master plan for Sabarimala's development, including a proposed airport and railway line expected to be completed by 2028. Kerala Education Minister V. Sivankutty dismissed the BJP's objections.

DMK organizational secretary T.K.S. Elangovan defended Stalin's participation, emphasizing the event's historical importance and downplaying the BJP's criticism as political posturing. He stated that the invitation was extended to highlight temple entry and equality for all.

Amidst the political storm, M.K. Stalin has reportedly been unable to attend the Ayyappa event due to "personal commitments". The controversy, however, continues to fuel debate about the DMK's stance on Sanatana Dharma and the role of religion in politics. The event itself is planned to be a large-scale gathering, with around 3,000 delegates from various countries expected to participate. It marks 75 years of the Travancore Devaswom Board, an autonomous body that handles temple administration. The Sangamam aims to showcase Sabarimala's cultural heritage and spiritual unity to the world.