Not only sponsor but also key middleman; more details on Unnikrishnan Potty of Sabarimala gold-plating controversy

PATHANAMTHITTA: Indications that Unnikrishnan Potty of the gold-plating controversy is not only a sponsor but also a key middleman who connected Sabarimala with prominent figures. It is said that high-ranking officials of the Devaswom consulted him whenever any construction was going on in Sabarimala. Knowing various languages helped him in making a name for himself by communicating with prominent people from outside Kerala and providing them with the necessary support.

Unnikrishnan Potty, a Tulu Brahmin who has completed his degree and studies in puja vidhi (Hindu ritual worship), joined Sabarimala as an assistant to the Keezhasanti(ulkazhakam) in 2008. Keezhasanti is in charge of the Thidappally and prepares the Naivedyam to be offered to the Deity. He is allowed to enter the sanctum sanctorum, but is not allowed to perform puja. He also has to work as an assistant to the Tantri and the Melshanthi. Keezhasanti cannot complete the work in a timely manner as the pujas are being performed continuously. That is why Keezhasanti involves more people as his assistants. That is how Unnikrishnan Potty got in.

The Thantri, who was displeased with some of Unnikrishnan Potty's actions, removed him from Keezhasanti's room. Yet, Unnikrishnan Potty remained a close associate of the top brass in the Devaswom Board and the police. He arranged sponsorships and other things. It is said that this relationship was how the pedestal of the Dwarpalaka sculpture that was gold-plated and placed in the Nada was not included in the documents and was taken back.

Foreign trips for officials

Traders and industrialists coming from South India visit and stay at the Sannidhanam with the help of Unnikrishnan Potty.

The facilities for this were provided by establishing close relations with the higher-ups and guards of the Devaswom and the police. In return, the officials were provided with trips outside Kerala and abroad.

Unnikrishnan Potty has also provided malas and other Thiruvabharanam to the Malikappuram temple through sponsorship. The Devaswom officials have received great help from Unnikrishnan Potty for some construction works and food distribution in Sabarimala.