Travancore Devaswom Board plans major changes at Sabarimala under 'Vision Sabarimala'

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Travancore Devaswom Board is planning comprehensive changes at Sabarimala under its new initiative, Vision Sabarimala. The plan was presented by Board President K. Jayakumar at a Sabarimala review meeting held yesterday.

A key feature of the plan is a dedicated budget for Sabarimala starting next year. Currently, funds are allocated through various departments. The new budget will combine all these funds and cover expenses for the Makaravilakku pilgrimage as well as monthly poojas. The Vision Sabarimala project also includes plans to start a pilgrim centre at Pampa.

Jayakumar said the Tantris at Sabarimala will be rotated during each pilgrimage season. The use of loudspeakers at the sanctum will be regulated, and announcements about missing persons will be made at fixed intervals in all languages.

Revenue of Rs 483 crore

The Board reported that this season’s revenue is estimated at Rs 483 crore, though expenditures have not yet been finalised. It was decided to conduct an audit within ten days after the Makaravilakku festival. Contributions will not be accepted from private sponsors; if necessary, the Board will identify official sponsors. All transactions will be fully digital, and staff will be trained for the process.

Temporary staff at Sabarimala will be reduced. The Board will investigate a recent unauthorised film shoot at the temple, including why it was conducted and review the footage. Jayakumar emphasised that no permission was granted for the shoot.