Sabarimala: Viral Photo Of Policemen Violating Temple Traditions Sparks Outrage, ADGP Orders Probe

In Sabarimala, as per temple traditions, even the priests descend the 18 steps while facing the sanctum.

The controversy comes as the two-month Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season began on November 16.

Source : PTI

A photo of Kerala policemen standing on the revered 18 steps of the Sabarimala temple has sparked a controversy as it is viewed as a breach of temple customs. The image, captured on Saturday, shows 28 uniformed policemen with their backs turned toward the sanctum sanctorum, a practice deemed disrespectful by devotees. In response, the Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) has sought a report on the incident for potential action, reported On Manorama.

The photograph is believed to have been taken after the temple doors were closed for the afternoon. As per temple traditions, even the priests descend the 18 steps while facing the sanctum, as per a report on IANS. The policemen, assigned to manage the crowd during the ongoing pilgrimage season, reportedly gathered on the steps after their duties.

Devotees and temple authorities await the findings of the official report to determine if action will be taken against the officers.

Meanwhile, the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) announced that over six lakh devotees visited Sabarimala during the first nine days of the pilgrimage season, as per a report on PTI. This is a significant rise compared to last year's three lakh visitors during the same period. The temple also saw a substantial revenue boost, collecting Rs 41.64 crore, marking an increase of Rs 13.33 crore from the previous season.

The two-month Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season began on November 16. During this period, the temple accommodates up to 70,000 devotees daily via an online booking system, reported IANS. Situated 3,000 feet above sea level in the Western Ghats, the temple is accessible only by a four-kilometer trek from Pamba in Kerala's Pathanamthitta district. The Sabarimala temple, which prohibits the entry of women of menstruating age, is governed by stringent customs, including a 41-day penance observed by devotees before their pilgrimage. The 18 steps can only be ascended by those carrying the "Irumudi," a sacred kit containing offerings.