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`Tholkappiam`, the ancient Tamil work states that in the ancient the land of Tamils, situated between Venkadam hills in the north and Kumari (Kanyakumari) in the south, the gods Mayon (Vishnu) presiding deity for Mullai land (forests), Seyon (Murugan alias Subramaniar) presiding deity for Kurunji land (Hills), Vendan (Indran) presiding deity for Marutham land (Plain) and Varunan (Varuna) presiding deity for Mullai land (Sea) are worshipped.

Based on this, the Department was to streamlined the administration of temples which stand as symbols of our cultural heritage and repositories of history.

The temples have been under the superintendence and control of the Government even during days of the East India Company.

The Hindu Temples have been in possession of thousands of Acres of lands since ancient times. Even during the times of East India Company, compaints were received regarding maladministration of these Temples. The general public lodged complaints with the kings then and East India Company.

In the meanwhile, the Madras regulation 1817 was enacted. This Act provided for monitoring whether the grants and endowments to temples were properly utilized or diverted for the welfare of private individuals. The Board was empowered to carryout this exercise. Due to this, thousands of temples were brought under the control of the Government.

In 1858, the Indian Governments Administration was transferred to the British crown directly from the hands of the East India Company. It was required for the British Government to win the confidence of the people and to reduce their illwill. Hence, the British Government assured that it will not interfere in the religious matters. Hence, the persons who were managing the affairs of the temples and their properties continue to enjoy them without any hindrance.