‘Devaprasnam’ backs Sabarimala customs; Kerala society accepts the tradition, says Tantri in Supreme Court women’s entry case
NEW DELHI: Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru has told the Supreme Court that the ban on women of a certain age group entering the Sabarimala temple should continue. In a written submission, he said the Devaprasnam ritual, which seeks the divine will of the deity, clearly supports keeping the ban. He added that this should be accepted as a clear direction from the deity.
He also requested the court to review its earlier decision that lifted the ban.
In his submission, the Tantri further stated that the restriction on the entry of women of a certain age group is a long-standing custom accepted by Kerala women community. He added that many women in the state, recognising the significance of this tradition, have cooperated with and supported the continuation of the practice.
Sabarimala follows a long-standing tradition under which women between the ages of 10 and 50 are not permitted to enter the shrine. This practice is based on the belief that the presiding deity, Lord Sree Ayyappa, is a naishtika brahmachari (eternal celibate). Devotees observe a period of penance and strict spiritual discipline as part of the pilgrimage, and many believe the restriction is an essential aspect of these traditions. Supporters argue that preserving such practices is important to maintain the sanctity and unique identity of the Sabarimala shrine.
The Supreme Court had set March 23 as the deadline for all parties to submit their arguments on the issue of women’s entry into the shrine. As a key stakeholder, Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru filed his response within this timeline.
Meanwhile, the Pandalam Palace Executive Committee reiterated its stand that courts are not the final authority on religious customs. In its submission, the committee argued that long-standing traditions must be preserved and protected. The Nair Service Society (NSS) also conveyed a similar position before the Supreme Court, emphasizing that established customs should be safeguarded.
The Travancore Devaswom Board, which administers the Sabarimala shrine, is also understood to hold a similar position supporting the continuation of existing customs.
Earlier, the state government submitted a detailed 17-page affidavit addressing seven constitutional questions linked to the case. The affidavit stated that any judicial review of Sabarimala’s age-old traditions should follow extensive consultations with scholars and social reformers from within the community. It emphasized the need for careful study and unbiased expert input to ensure fairness before making changes to established rituals.
A nine-judge Constitution bench is scheduled to begin hearings on April 7 to deliberate on broader questions involving religious freedom and women’s rights. The court has clarified that this bench will go beyond the Sabarimala review petitions and examine larger constitutional principles. Meanwhile, the Indian Young Lawyers Association, which originally challenged the restrictions, has maintained that the earlier verdict permitting women’s entry should stand.