Thiruvananthapuram, July 11: A significant development has emerged ahead of the Sabarimala pilgrimage set to begin this November. Kandararu Rajivaru, the appointed hereditary chief priest (tantri) of the Sabarimala temple, has declined to assume his position this year, citing health issues.
In a letter to the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) on Saturday, Rajivaru requested not to be appointed as tantri due to his health concerns. He also appealed for consideration to appoint his son in his place.
The Travancore Devaswom Board will review this request before making a final decision on the appointment.
The position of tantri at the Sabarimala temple is hereditary, specifically held by the Thazhamon Madom family. This family has been conducting the temple’s tantric rituals for generations. Traditionally, the responsibility is passed down among eligible family members, with Rajivaru being next in line for this role.
Rajivaru has previously been embroiled in controversies. He was investigated by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding the alleged disappearance and embezzlement of the temple’s gold jewelry and other valuables.
During the investigation, the SIT arrested him, while the ED questioned him under provisions related to money laundering. He was later granted bail in these cases, and the investigation is currently in its final stages.
Sources indicate that the Travancore Devaswom Board is not inclined to make an immediate decision. The board is awaiting the final charge sheet from the SIT and ongoing legal proceedings in the High Court.
Notably, only a few months remain until the Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrimage begins. Therefore, the decision regarding the tantri’s appointment is considered crucial, as the tantri plays a central role in conducting the temple’s major religious rituals and ceremonies.
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