Father did not die, he attained samadhi, says son of Gopan swami;  media personnel demand samadhi certificate

KOCHI: Sanandan, the son of Gopan Swami, clarified that his family has been telling the truth and that his father did not pass away, but rather attained samadhi. However, when asked by media personnel if there was a samadhi certificate, he remained silent. The High Court had earlier clarified that further actions could be halted if the family produces a death certificate. Otherwise, they would not interfere with the process of opening the slab. Sanandan's comments came in response to this.

"My father wished to become a monk according to Hindu customs. Some people are hurting Hindu sentiments after coming to the place where my father attained samadhi. We respect the court and the laws. My younger brother, mother and I have all spoken truthfully. However, the media did not broadcast everything we said live. People only realize the implications when they face issues themselves," Sanandan said.

"My father did not die, he attained samadhi. Some people claimed that he was missing. Who lodged the complaint? Don’t we have scanners? Use that to check if someone is inside. I cannot accept the current court decision. Let the police investigate," he said.

"My father has been a priest in this temple for several years. Both of us sons and my mother have spoken the truth. We have fulfilled our father's wishes. He specifically instructed us to perform the rituals when he attained samadhi. Action should be taken against those spreading false stories. Who is interested in tarnishing the reputation of this temple?" said Sanandan.