Thiruvananthapuram: Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has decided to seek the opinion of high court before taking a decision on the appointment of the Sabarimala tanthri, following a request by tanthri Kandararu Rajeevaru to hand over his responsibilities to his son Brahmadathan.Rajeevaru, whose branch of the Thazhamon family is scheduled to assume tanthri duties from Malayalam month Chingam 1 under the traditional rotational system, has written to the board seeking to be relieved of his responsibilities for the forthcoming Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season, citing ill health. In his letter, he requested that his son, Brahmadathan, be permitted to perform the tantric duties in his place.However, TDB president K Jayakumar said the board would place the matter before the high court and take a final decision only after obtaining the court’s opinion.The issue has gained significance as Rajeevaru is an accused in two cases related to the alleged Sabarimala gold theft. Sources said the board is also considering whether he should be excluded from the interview process for the appointment of the Sabarimala and Malikappuram melshanthis, in which he is traditionally expected to participate as tanthri. No decision was taken on that matter either.The tantric rights of the Sabarimala temple are vested with the Thazhamon Madom of Chengannur, with the responsibilities traditionally alternating between two branches of the family. Earlier, Kandararu Mohanaru stepped down and entrusted the tanthri duties to his son, Kandararu Mahesh Mohanaru. Citing that precedent, Rajeevaru has now sought permission for Brahmadathan to assume the responsibilities during his tenure.Board officials said seeking judicial guidance would help avoid further controversy before any decision is taken on the request.
