What’s the New Controversy Surrounding Gold Plating at Sabarimala?
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Synopsis
A new controversy has erupted surrounding the gold plating of sacred items at Sabarimala temple, with revelations linking the work to a former senior official's son. As the Kerala High Court orders a criminal investigation, what will this mean for the temple’s management and sacred assets?
Key Takeaways
- The Kerala High Court is probing gold plating practices at Sabarimala temple.
- Jayashankar Padman, linked to a former official, performed the controversial work.
- Concerns about proper approvals and accountability have been raised.
- The yoga danda has significant cultural and spiritual importance.
- The ongoing investigation aims to restore trust in temple management.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 10 (NationPress) Amid ongoing scrutiny, the Kerala High Court has mandated a criminal investigation into the gold plating issue at the iconic Sabarimala temple. Recently, a new controversy has emerged regarding the 'yoga danda' (ritual staff) and 'rudraksha mala' adorning the Ayyappa idol. The latest revelations tie this work to the son of a former senior temple official.
It has come to light that Jayashankar Padman, son of former Devaswom Board president A. Padmakumar, was assigned to execute the gold-plating and repair tasks for the yoga danda.
Padmakumar stated that the project was initiated at the request of the temple tantri (chief priest).
“When the tantri inquired who would undertake the task, my son stepped forward,” he clarified, emphasizing that the work was conducted without removing the sacred staff from the temple grounds. However, questions have arisen regarding whether the necessary approval from the Kerala High Court was secured for this work.
The controversy extends to the Rudraksha mala and the staff, which were removed from the sanctum sanctorum in 2018 for gold plating under a Devaswom Board initiative.
No documentation exists to confirm if these items were returned.
The yoga danda, originally gifted by the Pandalam royal family, holds profound spiritual and symbolic importance for devotees, being placed on the idol following Harivarasanam.
This information surfaces as an investigation continues into the missing gold-plated Dwarapalaka pedestals, sponsored in 2019 but later unaccounted for.
The recent developments have linked two sensitive temple gold-plating projects to the same team, raising new concerns regarding accountability, record-keeping, and the management of sacred assets at one of Kerala’s most venerated shrines.
The SIT has been allotted six weeks to finalize the investigation and submit its findings to the High Court. Attention is now focused on whether this inquiry will reveal further discrepancies, as the role of the Devasom authorities is increasingly under examination. One temple official has faced suspension.
Point of View
I recognize the importance of transparency and integrity in managing sacred sites. The unfolding events at Sabarimala raise critical questions about accountability within temple administration. The ongoing investigation is crucial to restoring public trust and ensuring that sacred traditions are honored appropriately.
NationPress
11/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the controversy at Sabarimala temple?
The controversy arose from allegations surrounding the gold plating of the yoga danda and rudraksha mala, with links to a former senior temple official's son.
Who conducted the gold plating work?
Jayashankar Padman, the son of former Devaswom Board president A. Padmakumar, was assigned to carry out the gold plating and repair work.
Was the necessary approval obtained for the gold plating?
Doubts have been raised regarding whether the mandatory approval from the Kerala High Court was secured for the work.
What is the significance of the yoga danda?
The yoga danda, originally donated by the Pandalam royal family, is a key ritual object placed on the idol after Harivarasanam, holding deep spiritual significance for devotees.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The SIT has been given six weeks to complete its investigation and report back to the High Court, with heightened scrutiny on the Devasom authorities.
