In a significant ruling that aims to bring transparency to temple rituals, the Kerala High Court has imposed strict restrictions on the handling and distribution of ghee used in Sabarimala temple ceremonies.
Court's Directives Against Illegal Ghee Sales
The bench of Justices V Raja Vijayaraghavan and K V Jayakumar issued a comprehensive order that immediately restrains the melsanthis of Sabarimala Sannidhanam and Malikappuram, along with the santhis of Ulkazhakam, from selling the ghee that has been used for performing neyyabhishekam to devotees. This decision came after considering a detailed report by the Sabarimala special commissioner that highlighted the illegal sale of 'Adiya Sishtam Ghee' from the priests' rooms at these sacred locations.
The court further mandated that all ghee currently stored in vessels, jars, or any other containers in their respective rooms must be immediately handed over to the competent authority of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB). This measure ensures that the temple administration gains complete control over the ritual materials.
New Protocol for Neyyabhishekam Rituals
In addition to the ban on ghee sales, the court established new guidelines for conducting the neyyabhishekam ceremony itself. The judges ordered that neyyabhishekams shall be performed only against valid neyyabhishekam tickets issued by TDB. Furthermore, these tickets must be issued strictly in proportion to the number of coconuts offered by devotees, creating a transparent system that prevents misuse.
The court also directed that the long-standing practice of conducting neyyabhishekams after collecting ghee from devotees in the rooms of the thantri, melsanthi, or ulkazhakam shall be discontinued with immediate effect. This move aims to centralize the ritual process under the temple board's supervision.
Seeking Clarification on Ghee Handling Protocol
Recognizing the need for comprehensive reform, the High Court has sought specific instructions from TDB regarding the proper protocol to be followed in handling the 'neyyabhishekam ghee' at Sannidhanam. This indicates the court's intention to establish a permanent, transparent system for managing temple rituals and materials.
The ruling represents a significant step toward eliminating unauthorized commercial activities within the temple premises and ensuring that devotional practices maintain their spiritual integrity without being compromised by financial interests.
