Amaravati, Feb 12 (NationPress) The Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and leader of the Jana Sena Party, Pawan Kalyan, commenced a three-day religious journey to Kerala and Tamil Nadu on Wednesday, which is viewed as a part of his initiative for the 'Sanatan Dharma Parirakshana' (safeguarding of ancient dharma).

Upon arrival at Kochi Airport, the actor-turned-politician proceeded to the Sri Agastya Maharshi Temple.

After his prayers at this temple, he will head to the Meenakshi Sundareshwara Temple in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. His itinerary includes visits to various temples in Tamil Nadu on Thursday and Friday, which comprises Sri Parashurama Swamy Temple, Agastya Jeeva Samadhi, Kumbeshwara Temple, Swamimalai, and Thiruthani Subramanya Swamy Temple.

Pawan Kalyan started this temple tour soon after recovering from a viral fever and severe spondylosis.

Initially, he had planned for a five-day expedition to Kerala and Tamil Nadu, but health issues have necessitated a reduction to three days.

On Tuesday, he missed a meeting of ministers and secretaries with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. During the session on Panchayat Raj and Rural Development, Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar remarked that Pawan Kalyan had been dealing with severe spondylosis for two weeks, preventing his attendance.

Manohar indicated that the Deputy Chief Minister would resume his official duties within 2-3 days. Chief Minister Naidu expressed concern for Pawan Kalyan's health and mentioned his attempts to reach him by phone.

Following the TDP-led NDA's victory in Andhra Pradesh in June, especially after controversy arose regarding the alleged adulteration of ghee used for Tirupati laddus, Pawan Kalyan has increasingly advocated for the safeguarding of 'Sanatan Dharma'.

He has undertaken 'praishchita deeksha' in response to the laddu adulteration issue, advocating for legislation and a national board dedicated to the protection of Sanatan Dharma.

During a public address in Tirupati on October 3, 2024, he emphasized the necessity of upholding secularism in a manner that ensures a uniform response to threats against any religion or faith.

Pawan Kalyan's visit to Tamil Nadu is expected to stir political tensions, as Tamil Nadu's Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin is known for his staunch opposition to Sanatan Dharma. In 2023, the DMK leader made controversial comments regarding Sanatana Dharma.

Furthermore, Tamil Nadu BJP President Annamalai is anticipated to join Pawan Kalyan during his stay in Tamil Nadu.