The Kerala High Court heard a PIL challenging the proposed ‘Global Ayyappa Sangamam’ to be held at Sabarimala and on the banks of the River Pamba. The Bench comprised Justice Devan Ramachandran and Justice Syam Kumar V.M. sought details on ‘Global Ayyappa Sangamam’.
The petitioner argued that the event was political in nature, alleging that it could undermine the sanctity of the shrine and the faith of Lord Ayyappa’s devotees.The Travancore Devaswom Board (Respondent 2), a statutory body under the Travancore-Cochin Hindu Religious Institutions Act, 1950, which manages Sabarimala, assured the Court that the programme was intended to project Sabarimala as a global pilgrimage centre, promote harmony and unity, and mark its Platinum Jubilee. It further submitted that the event would not draw upon public exchequer or temple funds and would be financed entirely through sponsorships.
Observing that the precise nature of the event was still unclear, the Court directed that the Board’s activities must remain strictly within its statutory obligations under the 1950 Act. Emphasising that the Pamba riverbank is revered as the Dakshina Ganga, the Bench underscored that the programme must be conducted with sanctity and reverence.The Board was instructed to file a detailed affidavit specifying the nature, schedule, and funding of the event, and to ensure that sponsorships come only from credible sources.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on 9 September 2025.
Appearances:
For the Petitioner: Adv. Ajeesh Kalathil Gopi (party-in-person)
For the Respondents: Adv. Sri. S. Kannan, Senior Government Pleader (for R1, R3 & R4); Adv. Sri. G. Biju, Standing Counsel (for R2 – Travancore Devaswom Board)
