Kerala Forest Dept Launches Probe Into 'Pooja' Performed In 'Protected' Ponnambalamedu Near Sabarimala

A viral video showed the accused priest from Tamil Nadu sitting on a platform atop Ponnambalamedu Hills, chanting mantras and doing some rituals.

Ponnambalamedu is reportedly an auspicious place from where 'Makaravilakku' is lit.

The authorities have launched an investigation into the trespassing and pooja performed by a group of people led by a priest at Ponnambalamedu, a protected forest area under the Ranni Forest Division in Pathanamthitta district.

According to ANI, “A priest, Narayan Swami, from Tamil Nadu reportedly performed prayers at Ponnambalamedu, near Sabarimala Temple in Pathanamthitta district. Ponnambalamedu is a sacred, protected place and entry is allowed only with Forest Department’s permission.”

Travancore Devaswom Board President, K Ananthagopan said, "He (The priest) was an assistant of a former priest in Sabarimala. He trespassed along with some others and performed prayers. It can't be confirmed if the prayers were performed in Ponnambalamedu. An enquiry needs to be held to confirm this. Devaswam Board will file a complaint with the Forest department & police authorities."

The TDB chief also said it was understood that the accused man had done all these deliberately to tarnish the sanctity of the Lord Ayyappa Temple.

Kerala | A priest, Narayan Swami, from Tamil Nadu reportedly performed prayers at Ponnambalamedu, near Sabarimala Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. Ponnambalamedu is a sacred, protected place and entry is allowed only with Forest Dept's permission.

Travancore Devaswom Board… pic.twitter.com/bAYebXd9K0

— ANI (@ANI) May 16, 2023

The incident came to light after a video went viral on social media. The video showed the accused priest from Tamil Nadu sitting on a platform atop Ponnambalamedu Hills, chanting mantras and doing some rituals.

Four others also appeared in the brief video. 

Ponnambalamedu is reportedly an auspicious place from where 'Makaravilakku' is lit. The annual 'Makaravilakku' event marks the culmination of the pilgrimage season at the hill shrine.

The area, which falls under a high-security zone, falls under the direct control of the Kerala Forest Department.