Aravana shortage at Sabarimala: Action will be taken after discussion with CM, says K. Muraleedharan
Kerala's Devaswom Minister K. Muraleedharan has criticized the Travancore Devaswom Board for a shortage of 'aravana payasam' at the Sabarimala temple. The minister plans to discuss potential government intervention and administrative changes with the Chief Minister to ensure devotees' needs are met.
Why it matters
The issue highlights the intersection of religious administration and government oversight in managing high-traffic pilgrimage sites in India.
Keralam Devaswom Minister K. Muraleedharan on Monday criticised the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) over the shortage of ‘aravana payasam’ for devotees at the Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala , saying that appropriate action will be taken after discussion with Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan.
Mr. Muraleedharan told reporters that the government “cannot sit idle” in the matter as it has certain responsibilities and was considering informing the Kerala High Court about its concerns regarding the shortage of the ‘prasadam’.
He further said that the discussions with the Chief Minister will also consider whether to appoint a special team, with the permission of the High Court, to conduct the Mandalakala-Makaravillakku pilgrimage.
His remarks come in the wake of reported shortage of ‘aravana payasam’ in Sabarimala.
The Minister said that the shortage occurred as the manufacturing plant was being renovated and stated that it ought to have been done when the temple was closed.
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