Report Reveals Unnikrishnan Potti’s Role in 2017 Manimandapam Reconstruction; Devotees Question Thidambu Changes
Pathanamthitta: It has emerged that Unnikrishnan Potti, who is currently in jail after being arrested in the Sabarimala gold theft case, had earlier acted as a sponsor at Sabarimala as well. This information is contained in documents submitted to the High Court in a report by the Advocate Commissioner.
The report reveals that Potti was a sponsor for the construction of the Malamandapam (Manimandapam) prior to the installation of the Dwarapalaka panels. In 2017, the pillars and bells of the Malamandapam (Manimandapam) were reconstructed. He assisted in the renovation of two pillars and bells located near the Pathinettam Padi (the sacred eighteen steps).
The original name of the mandapam associated with the Ullatan warrior was “Mala”, and it was initially known as Malamandapam; later, it came to be called Manimandapam.
Parumala Anthan Achary was the sponsor coordinator who facilitated this arrangement. The report states that Unnikrishnan Potti did not spend his own money, and that the funds were provided by traders from Tamil Nadu. It is also mentioned that an email requesting sponsorship was sent to the Advocate Commissioner.
Additionally, many devotees are suspicious about the changes made to the Sree Ayyappa Thidambu during this period; although it is considered an ancient Thidambu, as mentioned in the Temples - Census of India, what is seen at present appears to be a new one, and many devotees are seeking answers as to whether the Devaswom authorities were aware of these changes.
