A controversy erupted during a hunger strike at Thiruparankundram hill in Madurai on December 13, 2025, after protesters displayed a poster featuring superstar Rajinikanth's image alongside the message "Court's Judgement is God's Judgement." The strike, organized by locals reportedly linked to Hindu outfits and the BJP, demands enforcement of a Madras High Court order allowing the traditional Karthigai Deepam lamp to be lit on a pillar (Deepathoon) near a dargah atop the hill.

Rajinikanth's team swiftly distanced the actor from the poster, clarifying to NDTV that no such message was sent by him and the banner was erected independently by protesters. A communications team member stated, "They have put up the banner by themselves." The actor, known for his spiritual inclinations but political neutrality since abandoning electoral ambitions in 2020, has avoided public stances on contentious issues.

A local Rajini Fan Club secretary defended the poster, claiming it reflected Rajinikanth's past remarks on respecting court verdicts and his spiritual nature aligning with the demand. However, the unauthorized use has drawn criticism for potentially misrepresenting the superstar's views.

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The underlying dispute stems from a Madurai Bench order permitting the lamp-lighting on the hilltop pillar, reversing a century-old practice of restricting it to the mid-hill Uchhi Pillayar temple to avoid proximity to the dargah. Temple authorities and the Tamil Nadu government cited law-and-order concerns, prompting contempt proceedings when the ritual was blocked.

The state has appealed to a division bench and the Supreme Court against contempt actions. Protesters argue the restriction hurts Hindu sentiments, while officials prioritize communal harmony and dargah safety. The incident highlights sensitivities around religious traditions at shared sacred sites, with the unauthorized invocation of a celebrity's image adding a layer of political intrigue to the ongoing legal battle. As the hunger strike continues, authorities monitor the situation to prevent escalation amid polarized community views.

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