Global Ayyappa Sangamam: TDB Clarifies Amid Political Row
Thiruvananthapuram: Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) chairman P.S. Prasanth has clarified that the upcoming Global Ayyappa Sangamam at Sabarimala is part of the board’s diamond jubilee celebrations, not a political programme. His remarks come in the wake of allegations from both the BJP and Congress that the LDF government is attempting to use the sentiments of devotees for electoral gains ahead of the local body polls.
According to Prasanth, only devotees who have visited Sabarimala for three consecutive years and those actively supporting the temple’s development will be permitted to participate. The event will also showcase the TDB’s master plan for the temple’s future development.
Registrations and Participation
Prasanth revealed that participation is being finalized through the official virtual queue portal, where devotees’ pilgrimage history is being verified.
Kerala: 800 devotees
Tamil Nadu: 500 devotees
Karnataka: 250 devotees
Andhra Pradesh & Telangana: 750 devotees
Additionally, 4,000 expatriates have been shortlisted after registering through the virtual queue system.
Registration remains open on the Sabarimala official portal, the chairman said.
Event Schedule
The Global Ayyappa Sangamam will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at Pampa on September 20. While preparations are underway, the budget for the programme has not yet been finalized, as several committees are still being constituted.
The gathering will also bring together spiritual leaders, elected representatives, and members of caste and community organisations such as the NSS and SNDP. The NSS has already announced its support for the event, despite the ongoing political controversy.
Political Controversy
The row intensified after the LDF government extended an invitation to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. The BJP objected sharply, alleging that Stalin had insulted Hinduism in the past and should not be part of a Sabarimala-related programme. The party also opposed the participation of both Stalin and Pinarayi Vijayan, branding them atheists.
Meanwhile, the Haindaveeyam Foundation has filed a petition in the Kerala High Court seeking cancellation of the event. The devaswom bench of the High Court will hear the matter after the Onam holidays.