In a significant move before the annual Sabarimala pilgrimage season, Kandararu Rajeevaru, set to become the hereditary chief priest of the hill shrine, has asked the Travancore Devaswom Board not to appoint him this year, citing poor health. Rajeevaru, in a letter to the Board, has proposed his son for the position instead.
The Travancore Devaswom Board will review Rajeevaru’s request before making a final decision on the appointment. The Tantri’s role at the Sabarimala temple is hereditary, belonging exclusively to the Thazhamon Madom family, who have traditionally conducted the temple’s Tantric rituals.
The position rotates among eligible family members following established customs. Rajeevaru was next in line for the prestigious role this pilgrimage season. His situation has gained attention due to ongoing legal issues, including investigations by a Special Investigation Team and the Enforcement Directorate regarding missing temple gold and financial irregularities.
Rajeevaru faced arrests and questioning during the investigations but was later granted bail. The TDB is expected to wait for further developments, such as the SIT’s final charge sheet and court proceedings, before making a decision. The Tantri plays a crucial role in overseeing the shrine’s key rituals during the Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season.
