CHOTTANIKKARA: Kochin Devaswom board has started a primary investigation on the preparation of ‘guruthi’ using bleaching powder in Chottanikara temple. 12 bowls of guruthi was prepared using bleaching powder instead of ‘chunnambu’ (Calcium hydroxide). Guruthi was not offered for the deity as the high priest had a suspicion about the offering.
The incident happened at 8:30 pm on Sunday. Devaswom vigilance has started investigating the incident. Keezhkkavu priest Jayaprakash Embranthiri was also not present during this time. Devaswom officials were removed two helpers from their duties following the incident. The board has also sent a notice to four devaswom members. There were bookings upto 2025 for the ‘guruthi’ offerings. Guruthi was avoided only during the festival season and during the times of ‘mudiyettu’. Guruthi is prepared using the water of temple well, Jagger, turmeric powder, chunnambu and banana. Guruthi is provided for the devotees after offering it to the deity.
Instead of chunnambu, guruthi was prepared using bleaching powder, told Chottanikkara devaswom manager Bijukumar. A foul smell was coming from the guruthi when Melkkavu priest T N Narayanan Namboothiri appeared for the poojas.
Poojas were continued after making regular ‘guruthi’.