Sabarimala Thantri Appointment: TDB to Consult Tantric Committee Today
Thiruvananthapuram: The Travancore Devaswom Board will hold discussions today with the expert Tantric committee regarding the appointment of the new Sabarimala Thantri. Former Thantri Kandararu Rajeevar has requested that his son, Brahmadathan, be appointed as the new Thantri.
The Board has constituted an expert committee to assess Brahmadathan's knowledge and proficiency in Tantric rituals and submit a detailed report. The three-member panel, headed by Akeeramon Kalidas Bhattathiripad, is expected to meet the Travancore Devaswom Board President this afternoon and hand over its recommendations.
If necessary, the committee will also hold discussions with Brahmadathan. The expert panel's report will be discussed at the Travancore Devaswom Board meeting scheduled for Saturday, after which the Board will inform the Kerala High Court of its decision.
The tenure of the current Thantri, Kandararu Mahesh Mohanaru, will conclude with the Niraputhari Mahotsavam. The newly appointed Thantri is expected to formally assume charge on August 16, 2026 (Chingam 1 in the Malayalam calendar).
Under the current practice, two Thantris from the Thazhamon Madom family serve as members of the interview board that selects the Melsanthis (head priests) of the Sabarimala temple.