Published Jul 25, 2026 | 7:16 PM ⚊ Updated Jul 25, 2026 | 7:16 PM
Brahmadathan performing several ceremonial temple duties on behalf of his father Kandararu Rajeevaru.
Synopsis: Brahmadathan, son of the present Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru, will assume the post for a one-year term from the Malayalam month of 1 Chingam 1202 ME (17 August 2026) to 31 Karkkadakam 1202 ME (16 August 2027).
The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has appointed Kandararu Brahmadathan of Thazhamon Madhom as the next Tantri (chief priest) of the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple.
The decision was taken at the Board’s meeting on Saturday, 25 July. attended by its president K Jayakumar and members K Raju and PD Santhosh Kumar.
Brahmadathan, son of the present Tantri Kandararu Rajeevaru, will assume the post for a one-year term from the Malayalam month of 1 Chingam 1202 ME (17 August 2026) to 31 Karkkadakam 1202 ME (16 August 2027).
The appointment follows Rajeevaru’s request to step down, citing ill health.
In his representation to the Board, he had also proposed that his son be named as his successor.
Rajeevaru is an accused in the Sabarimala gold theft case and was arrested by the court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) in January this year.
After spending nearly 40 days in judicial custody, he was granted bail in February and has since stayed away from temple rituals, with Brahmadathan performing several ceremonial duties on his behalf.
The appointment is also linked to proceedings before the Kerala High Court, where the issue came up in connection with the gold theft case.
The TDB had informed the court that it had no objection to Rajeevaru’s request, while the Sabarimala Special Commissioner recommended Brahmadathan’s appointment.
A three-member committee constituted by the Board subsequently assessed his credentials and found him qualified and competent to take over as Tantri.
A Division Bench of the Kerala High Court had directed the Board to take a final decision and inform the court when the matter is taken up again on Monday, 27 July.
With the appointment now approved, the Board is expected to place its decision before the court.
