Pathanamthitta: A Hindu priest has been booked for delivering a hate speech targeting Muslims and the revered traditions of Sabarimala during an event held in Pandalam, Kerala.
Sri Ramadasa Mission president Shantananda made derogatory remarks against Vavar, a Muslim figure closely associated with Lord Ayyappa’s worship at Sabarimala. Speaking at the gathering organised by Hindutva groups, he claimed that Vavar was introduced to the temple around three decades ago and alleged that he was a “Muslim invader” and “terrorist.” He further declared that Vavar should not be worshipped because he was a Muslim, suggesting instead that a deity named “Vapuran” be honored.
The event was inaugurated by BJP’s former Tamil Nadu president Annamalai, who used the platform to launch political attacks on Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin.
Following the inflammatory remarks, the Pandalam royal family lodged a formal complaint. A. R. Pradeepa Varma filed the case against Shantananda for hurting religious sentiments and promoting hostility between communities. The complaint led to the registration of a case by local authorities.
Earlier, another complaint was submitted by Congress media spokesperson Advocate V R Anoop, demanding action against the priest’s provocative statements.
The controversy has stirred tension in the region, with community leaders stressing the need to safeguard Sabarimala’s traditions of inclusivity and harmony that have long been respected by devotees across religions.
