Published Jul 14, 2026 | 8:53 PM ⚊ Updated Jul 14, 2026 | 8:53 PM
Kantararu Rajeevaru and his son Brahmadathan. (Supplied)
Synopsis: TDB president K. Jayakumar said Rajeevaru, whose turn to serve as chief priest begins in the Malayalam month of Chingam had informed the Board that he was unable to take up the post due to health reasons and requested that his son be appointed instead.
The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) on Tuesday, 14 July, said it is willing to consider appointing Kandararu Rajeevaru’s son, Brahmadathan as the next Sabarimala chief priest, but only after obtaining the Kerala High court’s approval in view of the ongoing Sabarimala gold theft case.
TDB president K. Jayakumar said Rajeevaru, whose turn to serve as chief priest begins in the Malayalam month of Chingam had informed the Board that he was unable to take up the post due to health reasons and requested that his son be appointed instead.
Jayakumar said the Board is prepared to consider the request but will first seek the high court’s directions because of the pending case.
He also clarified that no other discussions are underway on the issue.
Rajeevaru was arrested by the court-appointed SIT on January 9, 2026 in connection with the Sabarimala gold theft case. After spending about 40 days in judicial custody, he was granted bail in February. Since then, Brahmadathan has been representing him at several temple rituals.
(With inputs from Sreelakshmi Soman)
