However, with the MMS video making the rounds online, the priest's future at the temple was suddenly uncertain. The temple authorities, while maintaining that they would support Devanathan Gurukkal, were also keenly aware of the need to protect the temple's reputation and the sentiments of its devotees.

We are talking about , the temple priest who has accidentally become the biggest "free video hit" on social media.

, Tamil Nadu. The scandal severely impacted the religious and social fabric of the temple town, raising significant questions regarding the sanctity of places of worship and the conduct of those entrusted with their care. Background of the Scandal

His most-watched clip? A "Day in the Life" vlog where he wakes at 4:00 AM, performs rituals, and then sits down for a cup of filter coffee while discussing how ancient temple architecture aligns with Vastu principles for a happy home. Viewers comment that he makes spirituality "relatable" and "cool."

: Devanathan, a 36-year-old priest at the time, was accused of performing sexual acts with multiple women inside the sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha) of the temple. Video Controversy : The scandal came to light after MMS videos

In the bustling city of Kanchipuram—famous for its thousand temples and silk sarees—a new kind of star is emerging. He doesn’t wear designer clothes or dance to peppy background scores. He wears a simple veshti , his stage is the ancient stone courtyard of the Varadharaja Perumal Temple, and his dialogue delivery is pure Sanskrit and Tamil.