Astrological Examination

Kerala Temple Affairs Minister V S Sivakumar today sought a report from Travancore Devaswom Board on the controversy over the conduct of a "devaprasnam" (astrological examination) at Sabarimala Ayyappa temple without prior consent of competent authorities. Accordingto reports, a "devaprasnam" was conducted at the temple premises to ascertain if the plot identified for building a free meal(annadanam) complex was ideal or not. The issue became controversial as the ritual was conducted by the temple officials without the prior approval of the TDB, administering the shrine, and the 'thanthri' (high priest), asmandated by the temple board manual. When the matter was brought to his notice, the Minister said a report had been sought on the issue from TDB president M Rajagopalan Nair.