1 day Ago By Manash Pratim Gohain
NEW DELHI: The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Tuesday has called for the Kerala government to address what it describes as "oppression of devotees" and the alleged promotion of non-traditional practices at the Sabarimala shrine . VHP spokesperson Vinod Bansal raised questions about the inclusion of Vavar, a figure associated with Lord Ayyappa 's mythology, into Sabarimala traditions, claiming it is a distortion of Hindu customs. The VHP has demanded the immediate cessation of rituals at the Vavar mosque and urged the government to prioritize the welfare of devotees.
Describing Sabarimala as the "Ayodhya of the South," Bansal accused the state's communist-led government of imposing practices that undermine the faith of Hindu devotees. "Why is the communist government of Kerala making Lord Ayyappa's devotees worship Vavar? Forcing innocent Hindu devotees to offer prayers at Vavar's mosque is an insult to our religious beliefs and traditions," Bansal stated, alleging a "conspiracy of secret admiration for jihadists." The organization further alleged financial exploitation of pilgrims, citing examples such as fees for applying tilak and restrictions on family priest rituals.
Highlighting issues faced by devotees during the ongoing Mandala Puja season, which began on November 16, Bansal criticized the lack of basic amenities like drinking water, food, toilets, and medical facilities on the pilgrimage route. He also expressed concerns over "piles of garbage" and the presence of "halal food and jihadist hotels." Bansal claimed that those who raise these issues are met with oppression and accused the state government of neglecting its duties.
He also criticized the suggestion by Kerala's Chief Minister to limit the number of devotees if facilities are insufficient, calling it an attack on the sacred pilgrimage. The VHP and the Save Sabarimala Action Committee have reiterated their demand to liberate the Sabarimala shrine from government control. They argue that the Devaswom Board, which manages the temple, is "filling its coffers by extorting money from devotees" without channelling the funds toward temple upkeep or facilities.
The inclusion of Vavar in Sabarimala's traditions remains a contentious issue. While some view Vavar as a symbol of religious harmony and friendship between Lord Ayyappa and a Muslim warrior, others allege his role was "inducted" into the tradition for political or financial motives. The VHP has linked this to broader concerns over what it perceives as deliberate attempts to create controversies, similar to disputes surrounding Kashi, Mathura, and Ayodhya.
As the Mandala Puja season continues, the debate reflects the ongoing tension between religious traditions and administrative oversight at one of Kerala's most significant pilgrimage sites. The VHP has warned of intensified protests if their demands are not addressed..
