The followers of Saivism and Hindu outfits condemned Swami Nityananda’s coronation as 293rd Guru of Madurai Aadheenam, one of the oldest Saivite mutts in India on Sunday. But, the present Guru, Swami Arunagirinatha defended the appointment.

Tension prevailed at the Madurai Aadheenam after members of a Hindu outfit entered into a heated argument with supporters of Nithyananda over the legitimacy of appointing self proclaimed godman as the head of the Mutt.

Members of the Hindu Makkal Katchi, led by Arjun Sampath, also staged a protest condemning Nithyananda’s appointment and demanded that the government should intervene and safeguard the glory of the ancient mutt.

Arunagirinatha Ganamandhasikar, the current guru of the mutt, categorically told members of the Hindu outfit that Nithyananda had all the qualities to be appointed as Guru of the Madurai Aadheenam.

“I was a bit reluctant to accept the responsibility because of the controversy surrounding me, but Arunagirinatha gave me the confidence. I will run the mutt as per his advice,” said Nithyananda.

However, Arunagirintha reportedly refused to meet anyone but later, six members, including Sandikeswarar Narpani Mandram leader Suresh Babu, were allowed to meet him.

While Arunagirintha defended the appointment, supporters of Nithyananda raised slogans in praise of him. Outraged Hindu members raised slogan against Nityananda.

Police then pacified the agitators and brought them out of the mutt.

Swami Nityananda said, “Trying to destroy a person is different from defaming him.”

He is the first person outside Saiva Velalar community to be appointed as Mutt Chief. He was arrested on April 21, 2010 after a controversial video footage by local TV channels in March 201. He was granted bail on June 11, 2010 by the Karnataka High Court.    (msn)